Scrooge returns in satirical sequel at Oxford theatre

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 24 Oct, 16:32 · Archive

A Christmas Carol Continues, a satirical sequel to Dickens' classic, runs at Oxford's Old Fire Station from December 9 to 29.

A Christmas Carol Continues, a satirical sequel written by Olivier-nominated Jonny Donahoe in collaboration with Conor O'Toole, will run at Oxford's Old Fire Station from December 9 to 29. Set seven years after Ebenezer Scrooge's original ghostly redemption, the play reimagines the reformed miser as a well-intentioned landlord whose personal generosity has not dismantled his grip on systemic wealth.

Directed by Jess Edwards, the production is set in Victorian England but draws direct parallels with modern issues. The Old Fire Station's in-house production tradition continues with this eighth original Christmas show, which will once again draw relevance from homelessness charity Crisis, which shares the venue's premises.

Donahoe said: 'I've always loved A Christmas Carol: it's a perfect story that manages to be an exciting, entertaining romp while never losing its pure moral centre. But as I've got older, I've wanted more from its meaning.' He added that in 2026, 'we're surrounded by Scrooges who hoard insane levels of wealth and gatekeep the happiness of those around them through greed and exploitation', noting that 'we don't call them misers anymore—we call them billionaires'.

In the sequel, Jacob Marley and the ghosts return with unfinished business, showing Scrooge that personal kindness alone does not change the impact of systemic wealth.

How it is being reported

• Scrooge returns in bold new sequel to Dickens classicA Christmas Carol Continues will run at Oxford’s Old Fire Station from December 9 to 29.Oxford Mail · 24 Oct, 16:00
• Scrooge returns in bold new sequel to Dickens classicA Christmas Carol Continues will run at Oxford’s Old Fire Station from December 9 to 29.Oxfordshire Guardian · 24 Oct, 16:00

In this story: Jonny Donahoe · Conor O'Toole · Jess Edwards · Old Fire Station · Oxford · Crisis

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