Charles Dickens: The Theatrical Influence Behind His Literary Legacy

In a compelling examination of Charles Dickens’s journey from aspiring actor to iconic novelist, an upcoming exhibition titled "Showtime!" will delve into the author's lasting affection for theatre and the profound impact it had on his literary works. Opening on July 23, 2025, at the Charles Dickens Museum in London, the exhibition will showcase a treasure trove of artifacts, including letters, posters, and playbills, that represent over 200 years of performances based on Dickens’s stories.

This exploration is anchored in a pivotal moment in Dickens’s life that serves as a classic “sliding doors” scenario. At the age of 20, Dickens sought an audition with the renowned Covent Garden actor-manager George Bartley, expressing his belief that he possessed a "strong perception of character and oddity". However, an unfortunate bout of illness prevented him from attending the audition, which ultimately set him on the path to become one of the most celebrated writers in history. If not for that cold, the world might have seen a different career trajectory for Dickens.

The significance of this turning point is underscored by Simon Callow, an acclaimed actor who has portrayed numerous Dickensian characters. Callow states, "Performing was central to Dickens’s life from a very early age. His father took him to the local pub as a child, where he would recite and sing. The cancellation of that audition with Bartley was a pivotal moment that led him to become a parliamentary reporter, steering the course of his life towards writing."

The exhibition not only highlights Dickens's missed opportunity but also his undying passion for the dramatic arts. Emma Harper, the curator of "Showtime!", points out that Dickens’s theatricality is often overlooked. She notes, "We have his reading copies where he edited his work, striking through text, gluing pages, and adding his own stage directions to enhance the drama. His daughter Mamie described how he would act out his writings, ensuring that his descriptions matched the theatrical experience he envisioned for his audience."

Dickens’s works have been adapted into countless performances over the years, from unauthorized adaptations during his lifetime to modern reinterpretations like "The Muppets Christmas Carol" in 1992. The enduring nature of these adaptations speaks to the dramatic essence embedded within his narratives.

The exhibition, supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, promises to offer visitors an in-depth look into Dickens's dual affinity for writing and performance. It will feature various items that illustrate how his storytelling techniques were influenced by his theatrical experiences, thus enriching the literary landscape.

As the world anticipates the opening of "Showtime!", it invites contemplation on the intricate relationship between Dickens's theatrical aspirations and his monumental literary contributions. The exhibition runs from July 23, 2025, to January 18, 2026, at the Charles Dickens Museum located at 48 Doughty Street, Holborn, London. It serves not only as a celebration of Dickens’s work but also as a reminder of the paths not taken and the indelible mark of theatre on one of literature's greatest figures.