The holidays have arrived in Austin with the best show of the season, “A Christmas Carol.” If you haven’t seen it before, this is one holiday event you don’t want to miss! Back for its 11th season, we’re here to tell you that it is more than a show, it’s an experience. Based on the Charles Dickens classic, Zach Theater’s energetic and modern take will have you dancing in your seat. With fun new choreography and impeccable musical direction featuring songs we all know and love, even those who have seen it before will be delighted by this year’s performance. Plus, every year, something new is added and this year is no different!
All About A Christmas Carol at Zach Theater
Cranky old Ebenezer Scrooge, played perfectly by Peter Frechette, takes us on an emotional journey of transformation with a colorful set of characters along the way. Roderick Sanford is masterful as Marley, shaking the house with his incredible vocal talent. The Ghost of Christmas Past, Kenny Williams, emerges onto the stage shining bright as he brings humor and sass to the role. Jill C. Holmes (along with her “happy juice”) delights as The Ghost of Christmas Present. Standout Mariel Ardila as Belle, brings the audience to tears with her emotional delivery of “Say Something.”
Director Dave Steakley and Musical Director Allen Robertson do an incredible job choosing songs that tell a familiar story in a brand-new style. Jordan Barron brings fresh energy to a Christmas Funk mashup that will have people singing along and waving their light sticks (which can be acquired in the lobby for a donation of your choice).
What Makes This Show Unique
The songs aren’t the only thing that makes this show unique. Austin is highlighted in a fun and creative way during the show. Kudos to Scenic Designer Bob Lavallee with his miniature renditions of classic Austin staples such as the Capitol Building and the Topfer Theater highlighted during Holmes’ journey with Scrooge.
The student casts (we saw both across two performances) are top notch. The adult ensemble is professional as always with incredible dancing by Maggie Anderson, Keaton Brandt, and Daisy Wright. An absolute showstopper happens when Gabrielle North, who plays Martha Cratchit, sings “Halo.” And just when you think the show is wrapping up, Ryan Everett Wood will mesmerize you with his rendition of “Oh Holy Night.”
This Austin tradition gets better every year. Heartfelt performances, joyful songs, a sense of community on stage and in the audience makes this experience fun for the whole family!
More Fun To Be Found At The Zach Theater
New this year, you can purchase a ‘Z Fan’ to clack along with during the fan song. You can find Christmas Carol and other Zach merchandise, along with holiday themed treats and drinks before the show or during intermission.
Holiday Markets can be experienced outside the theater from 4 to 8 p.m. on November 29, December 13, and 20. A special Kids’ Market is happening from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on December 6. Sign interpreted performances can be found at 7:30 p.m. on December 3, and at 2:30 p.m. on December 6.
How To See A Christmas Carol
Suggested for ages 6 and up, bring your whole family and arrive early to enjoy live music before the
show. With a run time of two hours and 20 minutes, including a 20-minute intermission. We recommend you plan at least three hours for this fun excursion.
A Christmas Carol runs through January 3, 2026 at The Topfer Theater. Ticket prices start at $28 and can be purchased here.
Ask about Student Rush, Senior and Group Discounts, and the XP Membership at the Box Office for reduced prices.
