A Christmas Carol at Octagon Theatre Bolton

Octagon Theatre Bolton’s festive production has become a firm favourite in the North West theatre calendar – and this year, the stage glows with the spirit of Dickens in a brand-new musical adaptation of A Christmas Carol. Expect toe-tapping songs, heartfelt performances and a touch of theatrical magic in this timeless tale of transformation and goodwill.

It’s Christmas Eve in Victorian England, and Ebenezer Scrooge is as miserly as ever – counting coins, cursing carollers and refusing every invitation to celebrate. But when the ghost of his former business partner, Jacob Marley, appears with a chilling warning, Scrooge is plunged into a whirlwind journey through Christmases past, present and future. Can one night really change a man’s heart?

This uplifting new version by Kate Ferguson and Susannah Pearse blends Dickens’ familiar story with original music and lyrics, creating a festive show that feels both classic and fresh. Directed by Sarah Tipple, the production brings together a cast of talented actor-musicians alongside six young local performers aged 9–13, sharing the roles of Tiny Tim and Martha Cratchit. Their energy and spirit make this a true community affair – a Northern celebration filled with warmth, humour and heart, and a festive treat for the whole family.

At a time of year when connection and compassion matter more than ever, we think A Christmas Carol at the Octagon Theatre Bolton captures the beating heart of Dickens’ message – that kindness is the richest gift of all.