Meadow Brook Theatre Celebrates 44 Years of Holiday Magic with A Christmas Carol
Running November 20 – December 24, 2026, on the campus of Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan
For those of us who remember our very first production of A Christmas Carol in 1982, it is as surreal as it is heartwarming to see this holiday tradition persist for so many generations,” says Cheryl Marshall, MBT’s Managing Director, “and we couldn’t be prouder!”
MBT veteran Phil Powers returns to the role of Ebenezer Scrooge for his 3rd year, continuing his spectacular portrayal of Dickens’ iconic character. His performance beautifully captures the emotional awakening of Scrooge as his hardened heart is opened to the power of empathy and generosity by Tiny Tim and the spirits of Christmas.
As always, the role of Tiny Tim will be shared by two local children. Tyler Smith of Rochester and Louis Dewey of Detroit are excited to take turns being the boy that will help Scrooge find his Christmas spirit. The cast also includes Anthony Guest (Ghost of Jacob Marley), Mary Magyari (Spirit of Christmas Past), David Aron Damane (Spirit of Christmas Present), Benjamin Burt (Spirit of Christmas Future), Stephen Blackwell (Bob Cratchit), and Dani Cochrane (Mrs. Cratchit). Rounding out the cast are Chip DuFord, Leo Hellar, Tobin Hissong, Katy Kujala, Stephanie Nichols, Adam J. Rivera, Amelia Rose, Kennedy Vernengo, and Jacob Weldon. Also in the cast are 26 other local children: Logan Andrews, Mayaar Arraf-Shapiro, Cambrie Augustyniak, Josie Bailey, Crew Barriga, Henry Bierlein, Sawyer Blake, Oliver Caloia, Tala Caloia, Russell Clauser, Zoey Elena Dobrota, Mila Facione, Lucille Hammer, Hailey Hampton, Tallulah Hodister, Charlotte Hosey, Maximiliano Morfin-Munoz, Wyatt Reynolds, Justin Shovein, Fiona Sorentino, Penelope Stockton, Chase Thomas, Haven Thomas, Avery Ulin, Emery Ulin, and Kromer Wiechec.
“This story serves as a timeless reminder of not only the weight of regret, but also the beauty of redemption,” says Travis W. Walter, MBT’s Artistic Director, “and we are honored to share it with you this holiday season.”
Forty-four years later, Meadow Brook Theatre continues to use the adaptation and original staging by Charles Nolte. This season’s production will be directed by Travis W. Walter with original choreography by Jan Puffer. Scenic design is by Peter W. Hicks, costume design by Mary Pettinato, lighting design by Reid G. Johnson, and sound design by Brendan Eaton. It will be stage managed by Brittanie Nichole Sicker.
Tickets range from $45 to $52 and are available by calling the Meadow Brook Theatre box office at 248-377-3300 or going online at www.ticketmaster.com. Groups of eight or more should call 248-370-3316 for group discounts.
There are opportunities for families to save money during our Family Weekend:
November 20th, 21st and 22nd, all adult tickets are $41 and children ages 5 to 12 are half price.
This production of A Christmas Carol is made possible through the generous support of The Fred A. and Barbara M. Erb Family Foundation, The Shubert Foundation, the Meadow Brook Theatre Guild, and the Michigan Arts and Culture Council, the National Endowment for the Arts.
Meadow Brook Theatre is a professional theatre located on the campus of Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan. For additional information, please visit www.mbtheatre.com or call 248-377-3300. Meadow Brook Theatre is a nonprofit, cultural institution serving southeast Michigan for more than 55 years.
Meadow Brook Theatre
Liz Schoen Development Director
Meadow Brook Theatre Celebrates 44 Years of Holiday Magic with A Christmas Carol