For theater fans, the best way to usher in the holiday season is to attend The Goodman Theatre's annual production of "A Christmas Carol."
Now in its 48th year, "A Christmas Carol" recently opened and continues its joyous run through Dec. 31.
The beloved holiday production relays the tale of old miser Ebenezer Scrooge, who over the course of one evening, is visited by ghosts with a special mission. Through his interactions with the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future, Scrooge ends up mending his ways to be a better, kinder and more sympathetic person.
Christopher Donahue stars as Scrooge in "A Christmas Carol" at The Goodman Theatre. Photos by Brett Beiner..
This 2025 rendition of "A Christmas Carol," directed by Malkia Stampley, stars Christopher Donahue and features a variety of new segments from the addition of new musical numbers to innovative sets and reimagined scenes. It's definitely a production that draws audience members in and keeps one's attention throughout.
Donahue, as Scrooge, is excellent in the role as he offers up a character who is mean-spirited and vile at the beginning of the story and also shows a melancholy/sad side in certain scenes. It's also fun to watch as Scrooge's transformation showcases much humor. Donahue easily makes one laugh as he runs around the stage in daffy fashion after his transformation.
"A Christmas Carol" continues to Dec. 31 at The Goodman Theatre in Chicago. Photos by Brett Beiner.
The cast remains a strong ensemble group of actors throughout the duration of the play. Fans of holiday productions shouldn't miss this show as it will surely put you in the spirit of the season.
A few special productions of "A Christmas Carol" will star throughout the run. They include an ALS-interpreted show on Dec.5; an audio-described show on Dec.6; and a Spanish- subtitled show on Dec. 7. A sensory -friendly performance will also take place on Dec. 28.
FYI: "A Christmas Carol" continues to Dec. 31 at The Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn. Tickets are $44 to $173. Visit www.GoodmanTheatre.org.