Duration
2 hrs 5 mins
Closing Date
Until January 9, 2027
Age limit
Suitable for 8+ yrs
Why Watch A Christmas Carol?
- This adaptation, by Jack Thorne and Matthew Warchus, brings Charles Dickens’s classic tale to life with immersive staging, seasonal music, and festive magic, offering a heartwarming experience ideal for families and fans of timeless tales.
- The production has earned 5 Tony awards on Broadway, including recognitions for scenic design, costume design, lighting, and sound, highlighting the technical and creative excellence behind this acclaimed staging.
- Starring Paul Hilton (The Inheritance, Lady Macbeth, Slow Horses) as Ebenezer Scrooge, the show benefits from Matthew Warchus’ direction and Jack Thorne’s adaptation (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child).
- Themes of redemption, compassion, and human connection are enhanced by striking visual elements such as falling snow, dramatic ghosts and carolling sequences, combining spectacle with emotional depth.
- Running for a limited season at the Old Vic Theatre, this is your chance to make this festive tradition part of your holiday celebrations. Book tickets to A Christmas Carol in London now!
Matthew Warchus’s production of A Christmas Carol (adapted by Jack Thorne) returns to The Old Vic, starring Paul Hilton as Ebenezer Scrooge. The show mixes Dickens’s original moral themes with modern touches: here the three spirits (Past, Present, Future) are female, and Little Fan (Scrooge’s sister) plays an expanded, haunting role. Expect strong ensemble work, festive soundtrack including carols interwoven with original score, richly designed sets and lighting that evoke Victorian London, and live theatrical effects (snow, flying props, audience interaction).
Storyline
Set in London in the early nineteenth century, A Christmas Carol follows Ebenezer Scrooge, a miser cut off from joy, visited on Christmas Eve by the ghost of his long-dead partner and three spectral spirits. They guide him through memories of his childhood, scenes of present joy and suffering, and a glimpse of what may come if he continues on his current path. Along the way he must reckon with regret, compassion and hope. Would a change in heart come before it’s too late? Book A Christmas Carol London tickets to discover what unfolds.
Show timings
Show timings for A Christmas Carol may vary every week. You can check the show timings for your preferred date at the next stage of booking.
Cast & Crew
Leading roles: Paul Hilton as Ebenezer Scrooge, Rob Compton as Bob Cratchit, Geraint Downing as Ferdy/George and Matthew George as Fred
Director: Mathew Warchus
Set & Costume: Rob Howell
Adapted by Jack Thorne
Age Suitability
This show is recommended for ages 8 years and above.
Children under the age of 16 years must be accompanied by an adult.
Age suitability recommendations are just suggestions. So, trust your judgment when booking tickets for any show, and enjoy!
Audio Described: Friday, December 12, 7pm (Touch Tour 5pm) and Saturday, December 13, 2pm (Touch Tour 11:45am)
British Sign Language (BSL) Interpreted: Wednesday, December 10, 7pm and Saturday, December 13, 2pm
Captioned: Saturday, December 13, 2pm and Monday, December 15, 7pm
Relaxed (also Audio Described, Captioned and BSL Interpreted): Saturday, December 13, 2pm (Touch Tour 11:45am)
Keep in mind that the theater is air-conditioned throughout the year and can get chilly. Bring along a light jacket if needed.
Old Vic Theatre
The Old Vic Theatre is one of London’s most historic and culturally significant performing arts venues. Founded in 1818 in Waterloo, it has played a central role in British theatre for over two centuries, nurturing generations of actors, directors, and playwrights. The theatre’s elegant Edwardian interior features a traditional horseshoe-shaped auditorium adorned with rich red and gold detailing, creating an intimate yet grand atmosphere. Architecturally, the building combines historic charm with carefully preserved period features that reflect its long theatrical heritage. The Old Vic has been associated with legendary figures such as Laurence Olivier and has staged numerous acclaimed productions, including Shakespearean classics, contemporary dramas, and award-winning revivals. Today, it remains a vital cultural landmark, celebrated for its artistic innovation and enduring contribution to London’s theatrical landscape.
Getting There
- Address: 103 The Cut, London SE1 8NB, UK
- By metro:
The closest Tube station is Waterloo located just three minutes walk from the theatre. This station is serviced by the Northern, Waterloo, Jubilee, Bakerloo and City tube lines.
- By train:
Waterloo Station is about 3 minutes’ walk away. It is served by the Northern, Jubilee, Bakerloo and Waterloo & City lines, plus national rail services. Southwark (Jubilee), Lambeth North (Bakerloo) are also within walking distance.
- By bus:
If you wish to take a bus to the theatre, the following routes ply to the area: 1, 168, 171, 176, 188, 68, N1, N 171, and N68.
Facilities & Accessibility
Amenities: Toilets, Cloak room, Dining outlets, Souvenir shop
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, Elevator access, Service animals allowed
Additional Information
- Security: To ensure your comfort and security, you might encounter a few security checks when you arrive at the venue.
- Dress code: Smart casual or semi-formal attire is the way to go.
- Outside food: While outside food isn't usually allowed, many theaters have cafes or restaurants nearby for you to check out before or after the show.
Tickets Redemption
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Cancellation & Refunds
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Frequently asked questions
The cost of the tickets starts from £31.25 and will vary depending on the type of seats you choose.
The play does not have a strict age limit. However, it is most suitable for children aged 8 years and above. Children under the age of 16 years must be accompanied by an adult.
The show is playing at the Old Vic Theatre in London.
The running time of the play is 2 hours including a 20-minute intermission.
The play brings you to Victorian London, where the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge faces his lonely, greedy life and the consequences of his choices. Guided by spectral visitors representing his past, present, and future, Scrooge embarks on a journey of redemption, compassion, and human connection.
Yes. The play includes Audio Described shows on December 12 at 7pm (Touch Tour 5pm) and December 13 at 2pm (Touch Tour 11:45am); BSL-interpreted performances on December 10 at 7pm and December 13 at 2pm; Captioned shows on December 13 at 2pm and December 15 at 7pm; plus a Relaxed performance on December 13 at 2pm (also Audio Described, Captioned, and BSL Interpreted).
Guests can expect snowfall, ghostly apparitions, carolling sequences, and an original score by Christopher Nightingale, adding atmosphere and seasonal charm.
