There’s a special kind of hush that falls over an audience when theatre truly works its magic, and that’s exactly what happens with A Christmas Carol, returning triumphantly to Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre for its fourth year.
Originally conceived and directed by Matthew Warchus with a sensitive and theatrically rich adaptation by Jack Thorne, this Old Vic production strikes a balance between spectacle and soul.
Led by Lachy Hulme as Ebenezer Scrooge in a commanding performance, the production never loses sight of its emotional core. Hulme charts Scrooge’s journey with aching precision, moving effortlessly from brittle miserliness to hard-won grace.
Around him, the ensemble shines with every performer contributing to a richly textured storytelling tapestry. From the warm-hearted Bob Cratchit (Daniel Frederiksen) to the ethereal and unsettling spirits (Natasha Herbert, Samantha Morley, and Emily Robinson) who guide this winter’s-night reckoning.
They are joined by Anthony Cogin in the duel roles of as Marley and Scrooge’s father, Andrew Coshan as Fred Scrooge’s nephew; Jonathan Gardner as George; Nicholas Kong as Fezziwig; Stephanie Lambourn as Mrs. Cratchit; Kaori Maeda-Judge as Jess; Emily Robinson as Little Fan; Felix Star as Young Ebenezer; Jack Van Staveren as Nicholas, Claire Warrillow as Belle and Hanlon Innocent and Amber Langman as swings.
A special mention to Mira Feldman who played Tiny Tim on opening night – Emilia Di Gianvincenzo, Wynton Inman and Noah Sherburn share the role throughout the season.
Visually, the production is breathtaking in its design. Under the assured local stewardship of David Spencer, Rob Howells’ stark, uncluttered design allows the narrative to breathe, while hundreds of suspended lanterns transform the stage and auditorium into a dreamlike Victorian wonderland. The effect is both intimate and epic.
Hugh Vanstone’s atmospheric lighting, with its shifting shadows and wintry colour palettes, wraps the audience in a world that feels at once ghostly and warmly alive. The result is a production that never overwhelms its story with excess, instead heightening every emotional turn with precision and beauty.
Performing Christopher Nightingale’s award-winning score with a complimentary mix of traditional carols, musical director Vicky Jacobs and her cohort of musicians (Natasha Fearnside, Atilla Kuti and Karoline Kuti) add a familiar layer to the production. Their stellar performances, especially when joined by the cast on hand bells, provide a number of memorable moments.
What ultimately makes this A Christmas Carol feel so special is its generosity of spirit. The familiar festive tale of redemption unfolds with fresh immediacy, reminding us why this story continues to resonate across generations and continents.
With its stirring performances, stunning design, and heartfelt storytelling, this production doesn’t just celebrate Christmas – it is a glowing festive gift.
A Christmas Carol
Comedy Theatre, 240 Exhibition Street, Melbourne
Performance: Sunday 30 November 2025
Season continues to 24 December 2025
Bookings: www.ticketek.com.au
For more information, visit: www.christmascarolaustralia.com.au for details.
Images: Lachy Hulme as Ebenezer Scrooge in A Christmas Carol (2025) – photo by Michelle Hunder | The Company of A Christmas Carol (2025) – photo by Michelle Hunder | The Company of A Christmas Carol (2025) – photo by Michelle Hunder
Review: Rohan Shearn