Midlane's Scrooge Sparkles In Sheffield's Carol-Filled A Christmas Carol

A wonderful classic tale for this time of year which, whilst true to the Charles Dickens novel is actually a brand-new adaptation by Aisha Khan. Directed by Elin Scofield no expense has been spared in bringing this classic tale to life and whilst there is something in this production to please any audience, theatre goers in Sheffield may expect a real treat as the production is interspersed throughout with local Sheffield carols beautifully performed by the very talented cast.

On a bitter Christmas Eve, Ebenezer Scrooge, an elderly miser, shuns festive cheer and human kindness. He is content in his cold, solitary world, but when the ghost of his former partner, Jacob Marley warns of a likely and dreadful future fate, and the spirits Christmas Past, Christmas Present and Christmas Yet to Come appear and each reveal the consequences of his ways, he is transformed into a kinder, gentler man. Suffice to say that the story remains as powerful today as it did when first written 1843.

Ian Midlane is an excellent Scrooge, on stage for the entire production, and displaying a huge range of emotions as his character begins to question who he is, starts to appreciate how he is regarded by others and finally to come to understand what he must try and achieve to transform himself into a better person. We see his desolation and despair and ultimately his joy when he realises that it is still Christmas Day and that he can still do good to others.

The Fezziwig's party was a joy to behold and gave some insight in Scrooge's mindset especially following the depiction of his early childhood.

Each of the ghosts’ appearances are beautifully managed. Anthony Ofoegbu’s Marley was an ominous figure bound in chains.

The ghost of Christmas Past (Nitai Levi) transported Scrooge to the Fezziwig’s party where his behaviour clearly showed his mercenary mindset and why he has to change. Adam Price as Christmas Present, was a colourful and jovial ghostly character whilst finally the ghost of Christmas yet to come showed Scrooge the miserable and lonely life that lay ahead if he did not change.

The production moves a pace and the cast of twelve each take multiple roles but there is never a sense of chaos or confusion as they are able to slip seamlessly from one character to another.

The staging at the Crucible may be regarded by some as a challenge due to the stage being surrounded on three sides by the audience, but the set design by Rose Revitt and Kevin Jenkins perfectly suits the tale being told. Similarly, the lighting (Richard Howell) perfectly complimented the stage action. The costumes, of which there were many, were true to Dicken’s era.

This is a wonderful seasonal production and there is nothing about it to dislike. It should appeal to all ages from the young to the old. It is a visual feast, the acapella singing is glorious and the underlying theme of the tale is as relevant today as ever it was.

An excellent night at the theatre guaranteed to get you in the Christmas spirit, but do take some tissues!

Karren Wilkinson Nitai Levi and Kiah Lindsay Photo Credit: Johan Persson

A Christmas Carol is at Sheffield Crucible Theatre until 10th January 2026