The holidays have arrived in Austin with the best show of the season, “A Christmas Carol.” If you haven’t seen it yet, this is a holiday event not to be missed! Back for Season 11, we want to tell you that it’s more than a show, it’s an experience. Based on the Charles Dickens classic, Zach Theater’s energetic and modern take will have you dancing in your seat. With fun new choreography and impeccable musical direction featuring songs we all know and love, even those who have seen it before will be thrilled by this year’s performance. Plus, every year something new is added and this year is no different!
All About A Christmas Story at the Zach Theater
Cranky old Ebenezer Scrooge, played perfectly by Peter Frechette, takes us on an emotional journey of transformation, accompanied by a cast of colorful characters. Roderick Sanford is masterful as Marley and has the audience shaking with his incredible singing talent. The Ghost of Christmas Past, Kenny Williams, takes the stage beaming and brings humor and cheek to the role. Jill C. Holmes (along with her “Happy Juice”) delights as The Ghost of Christmas Present. The outstanding Mariel Ardila as Belle brings the audience to tears with her emotional performance of “Say Something.”
Director Dave Steakley and music director Allen Robertson do an excellent job of selecting songs that tell a familiar story in a brand new style. Jordan Barron brings fresh energy to a holiday funk mashup that will have people singing along and waving their glow sticks (which can be purchased in the lobby for a donation of your choice).
What makes this show unique
It’s not just the songs that make this show unique. Austin will be highlighted in fun and creative ways throughout the show. Kudos to set designer Bob Lavallee for his miniature depictions of Austin classics like the Capitol Building and Topfer Theater, highlighted during Holmes’ Journey with Scrooge.
The student actors (we saw both in two performances) are first rate. The adult ensemble is professional as always and features incredible dancing from Maggie Anderson, Keaton Brandt and Daisy Wright. An absolute showstopper happens when Gabrielle North, who plays Martha Cratchit, sings “Halo.” And just when you think the show is coming to an end, Ryan Everett Wood will mesmerize you with his rendition of “Oh Holy Night.”
This Austin tradition gets better every year. Hearty performances, upbeat songs, and a sense of community on stage and in the audience make this experience fun for the whole family!
There’s even more fun at the Zach Theater
New this year, you can buy a “Z-Fan” that lets you clap along to the fan song. Before the show or during intermission, find Christmas carols and other Zach merchandise, as well as holiday-themed treats and drinks.
Christmas markets can be experienced outside the theater on November 29th, December 13th and 20th from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A special children’s market will take place on December 6th from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Performances with interpreters will take place on December 3rd at 7:30 p.m. and on December 6th at 2:30 p.m.
How to watch a Christmas carol
Recommended for children aged 6 and over. Bring your whole family and arrive early to enjoy live music before the concert
show. With a running time of two hours and 20 minutes, including a 20-minute intermission. We recommend that you plan at least three hours for this fun excursion.
A Christmas Story runs until January 3, 2026 at the Topfer Theater. Ticket prices start at $28 and can be purchased here.
Inquire about Student Rush, senior and group discounts, and XP Membership at the box office for discounted rates.
