Adapted for the stage by Jack Thorne (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child), Matthew Warchus' timeless production returns for its ninth year at The Old Vic from November.
Paul Hilton as Ebenezer Scrooge. Photo by Hugo Glendinning
Last year's production of A Christmas Carol broke box office figures, welcoming 66,000 people in just nine weeks to this reimagining of Charles Dickens' tale. The story follows the cold-hearted miser, Ebenezer Scrooge, who is transformed after being visited by the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come. Through these encounters, he learns the value of kindness, generosity, and the true spirit of Christmas.
Paul Hilton, known for his work on The Inheritance and Slow Horses, will make his debut at The Old Vic when he steps into the shoes of Ebenezer Scrooge this festive season. Hilton has recently performed in Hamlet Hail to the Thief with the Royal Shakespeare Company this summer.
On performing the role of Ebenezer Scrooge, Paul said:‘At its best, theatre is a transformative ritualistic experience and to play Ebenezer Scrooge in Matthew Warchus’ beautiful production of A Christmas Carol, in the magical Old Vic theatre that sings with the Ghosts and Spirits of the Past, Present and the Future, is a tremendous honour and a privilege. Living the dream.’
Matthew Warchus, director of A Christmas Carol and Artistic Director of The Old Vic, said: ‘I’m so excited that the great Paul Hilton will be joining us as Ebenezer Scrooge, taking the production into its ninth year. After decades of extraordinarily brilliant performances Paul has become one of the most highly regarded and beloved actors in the world. I’ve been in awe of his work for many years and I’m truly delighted that he’s agreed to take up the mantle of one of Dickens’ most unforgettable characters.
At The Old Vic we are all humbled by the enormous ongoing popularity of this production; last year, in its eighth year, A Christmas Carol continued to break box office records, welcome new audiences and see a staggering number of returning faces. I’m so proud that Jack Thorne’s ingenious adaptation continues to inspire, capture imaginations and create magic for our audiences.’
The creative team includes Set & Costume by Rob Howell, Composition & Arrangement by Christopher Nightingale, Lighting by Hugh Vanstone, Sound by Simon Baker, Casting by David Grindrod CDG, Ebenezer Scrooge and Original Casting by Jessica Ronane CDG and Movement by Lizzi Gee. Jamie Manton is the Associate Director.
A Christmas Carol will return to The Old Vic from 12 November 2025 to 10 January 2026.
