This holiday season, Matthews Playhouse invites families and friends to come together and experience a heartwarming tale filled with uplifting musical numbers, beautiful period costumes, and show-stopping choreography. With a blend of fresh new faces and exciting twists, including new special effects and music, this year’s production promises a joyous and high-energy holiday experience.

Set in 19th-century London, "Scrooge! The Musical" brings the classic holiday tale to life with Leslie Bricusse’s award-winning score. Geof Knight stars as Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly man visited on Christmas Eve by the ghost of his former partner, Jacob Marley (Jeff Powell), and the three spirits of Christmas (played by Sarah Baumgardner, Tristan Nogueira, and Davis Hickson). Through their visions, Scrooge sees the hardships faced by his clerk Bob Cratchit (Jared Shank), Mrs. Cratchit (Lauren Wilson), and their frail son Tiny Tim (alternated by Tobey Fincher and Charlotte Thomson). Inspired, Scrooge finds redemption, embracing the joy and spirit of Christmas.

Let the magic of "Scrooge! The Musical" bring you and your loved ones closer during this festive time of year.

Dates: December 13-22, 2024
Location: Fullwood Theatre (Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts), 100 McDowell St, Matthews, NC
Tickets: Available at matthewsplayhouse.com

A Director’s Fresh Perspective
Making his directorial debut, Johnny Hohenstein is eager to bring a fresh perspective to this year’s production. “Although we’re telling a well-known story, we hope to create a high-energy and fun environment for cast, crew, and audiences alike,” says Hohenstein. “Expect some surprises this year that will keep this beloved tradition fresh and alive!”

A Bittersweet Farewell
Local radio personality and actor Geof Knight will reprise his role as Ebenezer Scrooge for the third and final time. Knight, a beloved figure in the Charlotte theatre community, has announced his retirement from the stage after this production. “I am very honored to be spending a third year as part of this holiday tradition,” Knight says. “This will be my last year, and more than likely, my last time on stage in Charlotte. I look forward to another journey to 1843 London with both new friends and old.”

Special Performances and Community Impact
In addition to the eight regular performances, Scrooge! The Musical will feature a "Pay What You Can" performance on Thursday, December 19th, at 7:30 pm, benefiting Common Heart, a local non-profit dedicated to eradicating food insecurity and eliminating generational poverty in the community.

Introducing Kids Night Out - A New Way to Experience Live Theatre
For children who may not yet appreciate live theatre, Matthews Playhouse is excited to announce its newest program, Kids Night Out—a fun-filled evening for children in grades 1-5, offered during the Friday and Saturday evening performances of Scrooge! The Musical. While parents enjoy a night out, kids will have a blast with themed activities, games, dinner, and a cozy PJ party from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m.