Zucker Theater’s Christmas Carol Lights Up Austin

The holidays are here in Austin, and with them comes 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! It's back for Season 11, and we're here to tell you it's more than just a show, it's an experience. Based on Charles Dickens' classics, Zack Theater's energetic and contemporary performances will have you dancing in your seat. With fun new choreography and impeccable musical direction and songs we all know and love, even those who have seen it before will be delighted with this year's performance. Plus, new content is added every year, and this year is no exception!

“About a Christmas Carol” at Zucker Theater

Peter Frechette plays grumpy old Ebenezer Scrooge to perfection, taking us on a journey of emotional transformation, along with a cast of colorful characters. Roderick Sanford was a masterclass as Marley, wowing the audience with his incredible vocal talent. Kenny Williams, the Ghost of Christmas Past, appears on stage, bringing a sparkling sense of humor and playfulness to the role. Jill C. Holmes (and her Jolly Juice) stars as the Ghost of Christmas Present. The outstanding Mariel Ardila plays Belle, and her emotional “Say Something” brought the audience to tears.

Director Dave Steckley and musical director Alan Robertson do a great job selecting songs that tell a familiar story in a new style. Jordan Barron brings fresh energy to the Christmas funk mash-up, with people singing along and waving glow sticks (which you can get by donation in the lobby).

What makes this show so unique

The songs aren't the only unique thing about the show. Austin was highlighted in fun and creative ways during the show. Landscape architect Bob Lavallee deserves praise for his miniature interpretations of classic Austin attractions, such as the Capitol and Topfer Theater highlighted in Sherlock Holmes and Scrooge's Journey.

The student cast (which we saw in both performances) was top-notch. The adult ensemble was as professional as ever, with incredible dancing from Maggie Anderson, Keaton Brandt and Daisy Wright. When Gabrielle North, who plays Martha Cratchit, sings “Halo,” it's an absolute blast. Just when you think the show is coming to an end, Ryan Everett Wood mesmerizes you with his rendition of “Oh Holy Night.”

This tradition in Austin gets better every year. Heartfelt performances, upbeat songs, and a sense of community on stage and in the audience make this an experience for the whole family!

Find more fun at the Zach Theater

New this year is a feature where you can purchase “Z Fans” to cackle along to fan songs. You can find Christmas carols and other Zach merchandise, as well as holiday-themed food and drinks before the show or during intermission.

Experience the Holiday Market outside the theater on November 29, December 13 and 20 from 4 to 8 p.m. A special children's market will be held on December 6 from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sign language interpretation performances can be seen on December 3 at 7:30 pm and December 6 at 2:30 pm.

How to watch A Christmas Carol

Recommended for children ages 6 and above, bring the whole family and arrive early to enjoy live music before the show starts
exhibit. The performance lasts 2 hours and 20 minutes, including a 20-minute intermission. We recommend that you plan at least three hours for this fun trip.

A Christmas Carol at the Topfer Theater runs until January 3, 2026. Tickets start at $28 Can be purchased here.

Ask at the box office for Student Rush, Senior and Group Discounts and XP membership discount prices.