Master storyteller will bring 'Christmas Carol' to life

After a spine-tingling performance in October of Washington Irving’s “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” master storyteller Jonathan Kruk returns to the Harness Racing Museum & Hall of Fame on Thursday, Dec. 12, to bring to life "A Christmas Carol,” the classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge by Charles Dickens.

“We just couldn’t wait to have him back,” said museum director Janet Terhune. “He is such a dynamic and entertaining performer.”

Best known for his solo performances of these two literary classics, delivered in top hat and frock coat, Kruk will showcase his imaginative depiction of Scrooge and his special visitors, giving voice to 30 different characters in this tale of redemption and hope.

Composer Jim Keyes collaborates with Kruk’s solo performance. His original music includes melodies, atmospheric effects, character motifs, and special pipe organ effects.

An awarding-winning recording artist, Kruk was selected “Best Storyteller in the Hudson Valley” and has been featured on The Today Show, the Travel Channel, ABC Good Morning America, CBS Sunday Morning, the BBC, the National Geographic Channel, and WHUD and WAMC radio. He has performed at many historic sites, libraries, schools and museums. Kruk is author of “Legends and Lore of Sleepy Hollow and the Hudson Valley,” “Lore of the Hudson Highlands” and a Bedtime Tale app. His books and CDs will be discounted and available for purchase at the shows at the Museum. To learn more, visit jonathankruk.com.

There is limited seating so reservations are strongly suggested. Call 845-294-6330. Light refreshments will be served.

Musesum programs are made possible with support from the United States Trotting Association and the Agriculture & New York State Horse Breeding Development Fund.