WHAT the Dickens! Can A Christmas Carol really be retold through folk music?

GreenMatthews think so, and they are heading to Worcester’s Huntingdon Hall to prove it.

A spokesman said: “Using an array of both traditional and modern instruments and authentic musical arrangements, the undeniable talent and versatility of musician singers GreenMatthews take our best-loved festive adventure back to its Victorian fireside roots, painting a vivid and evocative picture of Dickens’ world.

“A Christmas Carol: In Concert recaptures the simple Yuletide delights of fellowship, laughter and good cheer”.

Perhaps there’s even the chance that Marley’s Ghost will rattle his ponderous chains in time with the music, and will Scooge do an a-cappella humbug, perhaps?

But GreenMatthews do not need supernatural help. The duo consists of Chris Green – voice, guitar, mandocello and piano, and Sophie Matthews – voice, flute and English border bagpipes). They are joined by special guest Jude Rees of Pilgrim’s Way (voice, oboe, melodeon).

The spokesman added: “They use a magical blend of new lyrics, traditional midwinter English folk tunes and carol melodies to illustrate the transformation of flinty-hearted Ebenezer Scrooge into the epitome of the Christmas spirit – warm-hearted, generous and loving.”

Both hailing from Coventry, Sophie and Chris, who have been together for 13 and married for 4 years, share a passion of music through the ages and are firm believers “in the age-old power of narrative song to delight contemporary audiences, taking their cue from ancient troubadour tradition, they are 21st Century wandering players.”

The concert takes place on December 20. For tickets, call 01905 611427.