A Christmas Carol, A Ghost Story
17 December 2025
Alexandra Palace Theatre
5.0 out of 5.0 stars
A Christmas Carol, A Ghost Story is once again running at the Alexandra Palace Theatre until 4 January. Previously staged at the same location in 2021 and 2023, the gorgeous production returns to its original home once again. Adapted by Mark Gatiss, this version focuses on the ghostly side of the story, leaning fully into the spooky vibe and including many plot points that abridged productions typically omit, weaving a full bodied version of the well known tale of Ebenezer Scrooge’s emotional journey to rediscover the magic of Christmas and helping one’s fellow travellers to the grave.
With a striking stage design dominated by heavy metal chains and towering filing cabinets, there is an oppressive, eerie vibe about the production that includes ghostly projections during the darker parts of the plot. Beginning with the night Jacob Marley dies in Scrooge & Marley’s money lenders office, it sets the ominous tone right from the start. Adding a narrator to one side of the stage, the tale is fully explored with many side characters and expansions on parts of the plot that are seldom seen in stagings of A Christmas Carol.
The spirits are gorgeously designed, keeping close to their original descriptions in the book, with Gatiss really focussing on drawing out the unsettling parts of these supernatural beings as they guide Scrooge through a journey of self-discovery. Rich costumes throughout add an air of sophistication to the Dickensian tale, with sound and light effects rounding out this beautiful show.
This production is definitely a darker, spookier version than most, bringing the story to life with dynamic stage design and a very strong cast. From carolling to beautiful choreographies, this richly designed and beautifully adapted version is a treat for the whole family and definitely one of the most beautiful productions of this beloved story for the holidays.
