Every city has its holiday rituals, and in Portland, one of the most beloved happens on NE Prescott Street, where Ebenezer Scrooge gets a second chance, and the audience gets to witness the wonder of it.
Portland Playhouse’s A Christmas Carol returns November 22 – December 31, and this year audiences can look forward to three exciting changes: a fresh vision from director Cassie Greer, some new miserly Scrooge energy courtesy of Jimmy Garcia, and a scenic refresh by Thyra Hartshorn. Together, they bring new life to a story that has warmed hearts for generations.
The heart of the show is still everything Portland audiences come back for. Rick Lombardo and Anna Lackaff’s musical adaptation, with musical direction by Benjamin Tissell, fills Dickens’ timeless tale with carols, laughter, and moments that will tug on even the coldest heartstrings. Scrooge still receives his midnight visits from the ghost of Jacob Marley (Sammy Rat Rios), and three spirits: Past (Sarah Ellis Smith), Present (Alec Irion), and Future (…you’ll have to experience this for yourself). He revisits the Christmases of his past, encounters the joys and sorrows of the present, and faces a future he’d rather not see. And, of course, there is that glorious Christmas morning when everything begins to change.
What makes this year different is the way Greer invites us to experience the journey. Guided by three ideas – light, wonder, and transformation – her vision embraces the extraordinary possibilities of live theatre, where the simplest objects can become an entire world as imagination brings the impossible to life, and the light of human presence can transform even the darkest moments.
But beneath the theatrical magic lies something deeply human. Scrooge’s story reminds us that our past need not define our future, that generosity can transform lives, and that it’s never too late to find our way back to one another. It’s a message that feels as meaningful today as it did when Dickens first put pen to paper.
Rounding out the cast are Travis Bilenski (Bob Cratchit and others), Quinci Freeman-Lytle (Fred and others), Claire Rigsby (Dick Wilkins, Elizabeth, and others), Madeline Tran (Belle, Old Joe, and others), and a talented youth ensemble who bring energy and joy to the production.
And there is plenty of joy along the way. For younger audiences, there are spirits, music, snow, and magic. For grown-ups, there’s the pleasure of rediscovering a familiar tale, along with a gentle reminder of what matters most. For everyone, there’s the joy of gathering together and sharing something special during the holidays.
Whether A Christmas Carol has been part of your family’s traditions for years or you’re experiencing it for the very first time, you’ll find plenty to love in this year’s production – along with some new surprises.
So, gather your loved ones and let Portland Playhouse remind you why some stories are worth returning to.
A Christmas Carol runs November 22 – December 31, 2026. Performances regularly sell out, so booking early is encouraged.
This year’s production of A Christmas Carol features a special collaboration with the Portland Opera Costume Shop, bringing new life to the costumes that help tell this beloved story, and helping transport audiences to the world Dickens once inhabited himself.
Run time: 2 hours, including an intermission
When: November 22 – December 31 | Performances Tuesday through Sunday
Where: Portland Playhouse, 602 NE Prescott Street, Portland, Oregon 97211
Tickets: Start from $5, and are available here.
Age Rating: Recommended for ages 5+
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