A Christmas Carol at Leeds Playhouse Review
Written by Joseph for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
“God bless us everyone!”
Leeds Playhouse’s production of A Christmas Carol was a joyous rendition of a classic story, with all the trimmings you come to expect with Dickens’ masterpiece of a cautionary tale. Music, ghosts and bauble costumes!
A Christmas Carol follows the story of Ebenezer Scrooge (Reece Dinsdale), a financier based in Leeds, who is known for being unkind, unfeeling, and selfish. He is visited by the ghost of his old business partner Jacob Marley (Obioma Ugowala), who warns him that 3 spirits will visit him, and he must follow them if he has any hope of being redeemed.
What follows is a wonderful journey through Scrooge’s life. Past, present and what is yet to be. We see past employers, friends and even old flames like ex-fiance Belle (Amy Forrest). We are shown how Scrooge’s actions affect those around him in the present, especially Bob Cratchit (Stephen Collins) and his son Tiny Tim (Lucas Kerr).
Theatrically, it is stunning, with wonderful set pieces. It’s just scary enough but not too much for children, though very young ones may find it a bit scary at times. However, it does balance well, with plenty of light and shade coming in the form of music and dance. The giant clock and light up sign with Marley's name flickering was a particularly nice touch.
You can really feel the desire for access through this show. The integration of BSL, not just at the side, but the actors' use of it was superb. It actually enhanced my enjoyment of the show even though I have no hearing loss. Anything that makes theatre a more accessible space for any and all people I am all for.
Performances were strong throughout. I felt as though Scrooge could have had a more venomous personality to begin with, but I am just being picky. A standout was Obioma Ugowala as Marley/Fezziwig with his impactful Marley and the suave and charismatic Fezziwig.
Spectacle, music, ghosts and giant turkeys, what more could you ask for from a Christmas show?
Plays at Leeds Playhouse until 17 January 2026
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
