Victorian Theatre

Generous Fire: Charles Dickens in America By Brian McCann Sunday, April 6, 2025 • 1:30 to 3PM Join us for an afternoon with Charles Dickens in this recreation of his 1867-68 tour of the United States. Written and performed by Philadelphia theater artist Brian McCann, this program is a fictionalized presentation of one of Dickens' public lectures – a popular form of entertainment and enlightenment in Victorian Britan and America – with the text taken mainly from Dickens' own works and letters. By the time of his 1868 visit to Philadelphia, Dickens had already survived one stroke, and the end of his life is imminent. McCann embodies the acclaimed novelist who is feeling the strain of a tour far from home and letting his public persona slip to show a fragile human spirit despite his great accomplishments. Your complimentary ticket includes the performance and a post-show discussion with Brian McCann. VENUE: This special event will be performed at the Ebenezer Maxwell Mansion, which is located at 200 W. Tulpehocken Street in Northwest Philadephia. Presented as part of the Lantern's new Spotlight Northwest Series.