Lyric Theatre brings the bah humbugs and Christmas cheer with their annual ‘A Christmas Carol’ production

On an annual basis, Oklahoma City’s renowned Lyric Theatre brings us one of the best traditions of the holiday season by putting on the classic holiday production, A Christmas Carol.

Charles Dickens’ iconic characters of Jacob Marley, Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim, The Fezziwigs, and of course, Ebenezer Scrooge, take the stage and share their talent for a series of magical nights mid-November through just before Christmas. Lyric’s production is internationally acclaimed and has garnered praise from many, including The New York Times and BBC News for being among just a select number of theatres in the world staging the holiday favorite in 2020.

Due to COVID precautions last year, Lyric performed outdoors at Harn Homestead for the first time. Thanks to the success of last year’s performances, they’ve decided to host it outdoors again this year. The setting provides an immersive experience as audience members walk through the homestead to each scene of the story.

“In all my many years playing Ebenezer Scrooge in multiple productions of A Christmas Carol, I’ve never felt the power of the piece, nor seen first hand it’s visceral impact on an audience quite so acutely as I did last year in Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma’s annual production," said Jonathan Beck Reed.

"Due to the pandemic, and out of an abundance of caution, the show played outside at the historic 1800’s Harn Homestead in the heart of OKC that passed perfectly for jolly old England, with the addition of a little theatre magic. The move proved to be fortuitous," Reed added. "Actors and audience alike loved the immersive experience which lead to Lyrics' decision to return to the Homestead again this year. The unique placement of audience between groups of actors creates a wonderful synergy that draws them in and allows them to connect with the story in a way they may never have before. It becomes very real, and raw to them which allows the message of the miser redeemed to resonate, and, I love it!"

Being outdoors brings the tale to life, as you sip on hot chocolate, cider, and your favorite beverages, you’ll be refreshed by the cool air and talent. Continuing an equally cherished holiday tradition, audiences are invited to contribute to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma following each performance. During the past 10 years, Lyric Theatre patrons have donated nearly $200,000 to help feed thousands of Oklahomans in need. Last year’s attendees helped provide meals for more than 64,000 people.

It’s important to note: the venue does not have seating, so dress comfortably for the 75-minute production. Tickets will be limited to 200 guests for each performance. To purchase tickets, or for more information, visit LyricTheatreOKC.org, or call Lyric’s Box Office at (405) 524-9312.

About Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma

Founded in 1963, Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma is the state’s leading professional theatre company. Lyric produces classic and contemporary musicals, new works, and plays featuring artists from Oklahoma and around the nation. Shows are presented at two Oklahoma City venues — the intimate Plaza Theatre and in the summer at the grand Civic Center Music Hall.  Lyric's Thelma Gaylord Academy is the premier professional theatre training ground, offering classes in all aspects of the performing arts. Lyric is a nonprofit member theatre of the National Alliance for Musical Theatre and Allied Arts. For more information, visit LyricTheatreOKC.org.

This article originally appeared on A Better Life Blog.