Old Vic’s A Christmas Carol Returns for 10th Anniversary
A Beloved Tradition Returns to Waterloo
The Old Vic, nestled in Waterloo just a short walk from the South Bank, has announced the full casting for its highly anticipated 10th anniversary staging of A Christmas Carol. This iconic South London venue has become synonymous with festive theatre magic, and this year’s production promises to deliver once again. Director Matthew Warchus and writer Jack Thorne’s adaptation continues to draw audiences from across the capital and beyond, transforming the theatre into a winter wonderland each season. The production runs from 10 November 2026 through 9 January 2027, giving Londoners a full two months to experience Dickens’ timeless tale. West End favourite Giles Terera, fresh from his acclaimed turn in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest earlier this year, takes on the central role of Ebenezer Scrooge. The Old Vic’s location makes it easily accessible from central London landmarks—you can catch the show and still have time to explore nearby attractions like the Thames riverside or Trafalgar Square’s festive spirit. For families and theatre lovers across South London and beyond, this production has become as essential to the Christmas calendar as decorations on your high street.
Meet the Cast Bringing Dickens to Life
The ensemble cast features an impressive blend of established West End talent and rising stars who will bring Charles Dickens’ beloved characters to vivid life. Jack North steps into the role of Bob Cratchit, the heart of the story, while Aiesha Naomi portrays the Ghost of Christmas Present and Mrs Fezziwig, showcasing the theatrical range required for this demanding production. Annie Wensak takes on the Ghost of Christmas Past, a role requiring both ethereal presence and emotional depth. Particularly notable is the shared role of Tiny Tim, played by four young performers—Imuujin Bayarsaikhan, Freddie Merritt, Veronica Aeryn Onu, and Hannah Slater—allowing the production to manage the physical demands on child actors while maintaining consistency. The full supporting cast includes Carly Bawden as Belle, Gleanne Purcell-Brown as Mrs Cratchit, and Edward Harrison as Marley’s Ghost, among many others. Artistic Director Matthew Warchus has cultivated a company that understands not just the theatrical requirements of this production, but its deeper purpose. For locals, this means the kind of thoughtful, character-driven performances that have made the Old Vic’s version distinct from other holiday productions across London.
Giving Back: £2.3 Million Raised for London Communities
What sets the Old Vic’s A Christmas Carol apart from other West End productions is its profound community commitment. Over nine years, the show has raised an extraordinary £2.3 million for homeless charities and food banks—real money that directly impacts vulnerable Londoners struggling with food insecurity and homelessness. This year’s collections will benefit FoodCycle, a local charity that transforms surplus food into free community meals while tackling loneliness and supporting mental health across our city. For Southwark residents and Londoners more broadly, attending this production means your ticket price contributes to tangible change in our neighbourhoods. Warchus has stated that theatre should make a positive difference to the world around us, and this show genuinely delivers on that promise. If you’re considering a festive outing—whether it’s catching a show before heading to Soho for dinner or planning a special family day out in central London—knowing your entertainment choices support vulnerable members of our community adds real meaning to the experience. The show’s age guidance of 8+ makes it accessible for family groups, and with over two months of performances, there’s flexibility for planning. Book early to secure seats, as this production consistently breaks box office records, making it one of London’s most sought-after tickets each winter season.
