The full cast and creative team has been chosen for Hope Mill Theatre’s new production of the musical version of A Christmas Carol at The Lowry in Salford (December 6-January 5, 2025).
The new names join that of previously-announced Bolton-born musical theatre star Claire Moore, who will play Scrooge.
Starring alongside Claire will be Josie Benson and Alexander Evans (Mr and Mrs Fezziwig); James Hume (Ghost of Christmas Present); Barry Keenan (Marley); Matthew Jeans (Mr Cratchit); Mari McGinlay (Ghost of Christmas Past); Marienella Phillips (Mrs Cratchit) and Chomba S.Taulo (Fred).
It isn't the first time a woman has played the world-famous miser, but it is unusual – and the first time for this particular version of the show, which for several years was a New York festive staple at Madison Square Garden.
Claire (Phantom of the Opera, Miss Saigon, Les Miserables, Oliver!, The King and I) said: “I am so excited to play one of Dickens' most iconic characters. I am especially delighted to be portraying Scrooge as a woman. So, far from 'bah, humbug', I can't wait for Christmas."
Following their critically-acclaimed production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella in 2022, Manchester's Hope Mill Theatre co-founders Joseph Houston and William Whelton will reunite to co-direct the show, as part of Hope Mill's plans to produce its award-winning musicals on a larger scale in venues other than the small Ancoats theatre.
The show has music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Lynn Ahrens and a book by Mike Ockrent and Lynn Ahrens. It appeared in New York every year from 1994-2003, and in 2004 was adapted for television by Hallmark Entertainment for NBC starring Kelsey Grammer as Scrooge.
More info and tickets here