A Christmas Carol
Highlands Theater – Winter 2025

​

Welcome to Highlands Theater’s holiday production of A Christmas Carol!

We’re honored to brighten up the season with traditional carols, beautiful costumes, and a story that still speaks to us today.  We're seeking enthusiastic singers, dancers, and storytellers to bring this classic holiday tale to life.

​​

NARRATORS 1, 2 & 3

18 to 35 years old; all ethnicities; woman. The Narrators guide the audience through the story, blending warmth, humor, and gravitas as they move the action forward. They also sing throughout the production — as a trio, in duets, and as soloists — using Christmas carols to underscore key moments and tie the narrative together. Seeking charismatic performers with strong vocal ability who can both blend in harmony and shine individually, while authentically engaging with audiences of all ages.

​

FRED

​25 to 35 years old, all ethnicities; man. Ebenezer Scrooge's warm-hearted and optimistic nephew. Fred embodies the joy and generosity of the Christmas spirit, consistently extending kindness to Scrooge. Looking for a charismatic, energetic and engaging actor who can convey a genuine sense of enthusiasm and familial affection.

 

MARLEY / OLD JOE

35 to 55 years old, all ethnicities man.

• MARLEY: Jacob Marley is the tormented ghost of Scrooge’s former business partner, wrapped in chains as a symbol of his earthly misdeeds. Marley's haunting appearance and solemn warnings serve as a pivotal moment in the narrative, urging Scrooge to change his ways before it's too late. This role requires an actor who can convey intense regret and a spectral presence, delivering a powerful performance that embodies the consequences of a life misspent.

• OLD JOE: A seedy and opportunistic rag-and-bone man who deals in the stolen possessions of the deceased. Old Joe's character is marked by grim humor and a lack of morality, showcasing the darker, greed-driven side of humanity. This role demands a rough and coarse demeanor.

​

YOUNG SCROOGE /  UNDERTAKER

18 to 30 years old, all ethnicities man.

• YOUNG SCROOGE: A version of Ebenezer Scrooge during his formative years, this role shows the progression from an innocent, hopeful young man to one who begins to value money over relationships. This portrayal should capture the complexity of a young person's transformation under the influences of hardship and societal values, providing insight into the roots of the older Scrooge's bitterness and isolation.

• UNDERTAKER: A pragmatic and somewhat morose character who deals with the realities of death, embodying a stark, no-nonsense attitude towards the end of life. This role requires a somber and detached demeanor, offering a grim contrast to the initial brightness of Young Scrooge.

​

DICK WILKINS / TOPPER

20 to 35 years old, all ethnicities man.

• DICK WILKINS: Ebenezer Scrooge’s affable and cheerful former workmate from his younger days under Mr. Fezziwig. This character should exude a friendly and light-hearted demeanor, providing a glimpse into Scrooge’s more pleasant past associations.

• TOPPER: A lively and somewhat flirtatious guest at Fred’s Christmas party, known for his playful banter and attempts to charm the ladies. This role demands a charismatic and energetic performance, seeking an actor with strong comedic chops.

​

MRS. FEZZIWIG / MRS. DILBUR

35 to 55 years old, all ethnicities, female.

• MRS. FEZZIWIG: Warm, gracious, and full of cheer, Mrs. Fezziwig embodies the festive joy of the holiday season. She is a lively hostess who brings energy and heart to the Fezziwig celebrations, complementing her husband’s merriment with her own generous spirit.

• MRS. DILBUR: A sharp and pragmatic servant who wastes no time profiting from Scrooge’s death by selling his belongings. Marked by blunt practicality and dark humor, Mrs. Dilbur represents the colder, more transactional side of humanity. This role requires versatility to shift between lighthearted warmth and cynical realism.

​

ADULT FAN / SAMANTHA

25 to 40 years old, all ethnicities woman.

• ADULT FAN: Scrooge’s beloved younger sister, who is near death after giving birth to her son, Fred. She sees the good in Scrooge and asks him to care for Fred after she's gone. We are looking for a strong actress who can bring depth and warmth to this role.

• SAMANTHA: Fred’s wife, a gracious and hospitable hostess at his Christmas celebrations. She is welcoming and warm, often interacting playfully and affectionately with Fred and their guests. This role requires a cheerfully energetic demeanor.

​

SARAH / LAUNDRESS

18 to 25 years old, all ethnicities woman.

• SARAH: Seen in the present, Sarah is the adult daughter of Belle, Scrooge's former fiancée. She embodies Belle's warmth and kindness, symbolizing the life of familial happiness Scrooge could have had. This role requires a gentle, compassionate demeanor that reflects mature grace.

• LAUNDRESS: A pragmatic and somewhat hardened woman, dealing with the aftermath of Scrooge's life, showcasing the harsh realities of poverty and survival in Victorian society. This role demands a rugged and assertive presence with strong comedic timing.

​

MARTHA CRATCHIT / CAROLER

18 to 20 years old, all ethnicities woman / girl.

• MARTHA CRATCHIT: The eldest daughter of the Cratchit family, known for her hardworking and cheerful nature. Martha is a source of joy and support in her family, especially appreciated during the Christmas celebrations. This role demands an actress who can portray warmth, familial loyalty, and the resilience of a young woman contributing significantly to her family's well-being.

• CAROLER: A member of a group that brings holiday cheer through song, embodying the festive spirit of the season. This character requires a talented singer and mover, engaging the audience with traditional Christmas carols and lively interactions. The role showcases the actress’s vocal abilities and her capacity to spread festive enthusiasm with dynamic movement.

​

CHILDREN’S ENSEMBLE (6–13)

Ages 6 to 13, all ethnicities, any gender. The children in A Christmas Carol bring energy, warmth, and authenticity to the world of Dickens’ London. Roles may include members of the Cratchit family, townspeople, party guests, carolers, and spirits. We are seeking young performers who can deliver honest, age-appropriate performances, with strong focus, discipline, and a sense of play. Singing ability is a plus, as many children will participate in ensemble carols that help carry the storytelling. These roles require enthusiasm, a collaborative spirit, and the ability to take direction well. Performers will be considered for all available children’s roles. A parent or guardian will be allowed within sight and sound of the minor at all times while they are working. The production is in full compliance with all State/Provincial Child Entertainment Laws.​

​

​

Storyline

Ebenezer Scrooge is a miser who harbors a deep-seated disdain for Christmas. He co-founded a business with Jacob Marley, a man similar in temperament to Scrooge. Since Marley's death, Scrooge has operated the business solo, treating his employee, Bob Cratchit, harshly. One decisive night, Scrooge receives a visit from the ghost of Jacob Marley, who warns that Scrooge's afterlife is destined to be bleak unless he embraces kindness. Marley reveals that Scrooge will be visited by three more spirits over the subsequent nights. Initially skeptical, Scrooge's dismissive attitude wanes as the spectral visits grow increasingly profound, pushing him toward radical change. By the end of the story, Scrooge has transformed remarkably, recognizing the importance of charity, friendship, and generosity. He grows to cherish Christmas, dedicating himself to aiding Bob Cratchit and his family.