A Tradition Returns to Staunton, VA
Each December, the Blackfriars Playhouse lights up with the warmth of story, laughter, and community. That tradition continues this winter with Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, adapted by Jay McClure and directed by Stephanie Holladay Earl.
Now in her fourteenth year of working on A Christmas Carol, Stephanie Holladay Earl leads a company of returning favorites and new faces in this beloved holiday event. McClure’s lively adaptation preserves Dickens’ words while brimming with humor, heart, and music—capturing the spirit of generosity and joy that defines the season under shared light.
Meet the Cast
This ensemble brings A Christmas Carol to life in a whirlwind of creativity, crafting the world of Scrooge and company through quick changes, bold storytelling, and shared imagination.
Cast
- Darin F. Earl II *– Fred – ASC DEBUT
- Summer England * – Mrs. Fred, Mrs. Fezziwig
- Blake Henri *– Jacob Marley, Ghost of Christmas Present
- Alisa Ledyard * – Mrs. Cratchit
- Molly Martinez-Collins – Tiny Tim, Fan
- Ronan Melomo – Dick Wilkins
- Hannah Nguyen – Ghost of Christmas Past – ASC DEBUT
- Chloe Rogers – Belle – ASC DEBUT
- Ronald Román-Meléndez * – Scrooge
- Christopher Seiler * – Bob Cratchit
- Pete Sheldon – Young Scrooge – ASC DEBUT
*Member, Actors’ Equity Association
Returning ASC favorites Summer England, Blake Henri, Alisa Ledyard, Ronald Román-Meléndez, Christopher Seiler Molly Martínez-Collins,and Ronan Melomo, bring a deep connection to the Playhouse and to each other. Joining them is Pete Sheldon, a former ASC Acting Fellow who you may have seen as Proteus in The Two Gentlemen of Verona or as Paris in Romeo & Juliet in the ASC’s Fall 2025 Repertory Season. Plus Darin F Earl II, Hannah Nygen, and Chloe Rogers make their ASC debuts, infusing the stage with fresh energy and discovery.
Together, they carry forward the spirit of A Christmas Carol—connection, community, and the joy of telling a timeless story together beneath the glow of candlelight, music, and story.
Plan Your Holiday Getaway to the Shenandoah Valley
Looking for festive things to do in Virginia this winter? Just 2.5 hours from Washington, D.C., Staunton shines brightest during the holidays—filled with twinkling lights, mountain views, and the kind of small-town charm you thought only existed in storybooks.
Spend the afternoon wandering Downtown Staunton, where the shop windows sparkle and every doorway smells like cinnamon and coffee. Pick up gifts at Pufferbellies Toys & Books, grab a pastry at Reunion Bakery, and discover the kind of Main Street that feels written just for you, before stepping into the warmth of the Blackfriars Playhouse.
Pay-What-You-Will Previews
Kick off the season with A Christmas Carol at our Pay-What-You-Will Previews on Thursday, December 4, and Friday, December 5.
There’s no ticket needed—just come early, check in with our Box Office team, and grab a seat on a first-come, first-served basis. We recommend arriving 30–60 minutes ahead, since these performances are some of the most popular of the year.
After the show, you’re invited to give what you wish to support the ASC and the artists who bring this holiday favorite to life.
Run time: Approximately 95 minutes, including intermission
Age policy: We welcome anyone aged three and up to attend this special holiday production.
From Dickens’ words to the shared light of the Playhouse, A Christmas Carol reminds us that generosity and community are always in season. Whether it’s your first visit or your favorite tradition, gather with us this December and carry the light forward.