A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Cast:
In Order of Appearance
Ebenezer Scrooge: Male, late 60s. Very conservative, controlling. Slightly out of fashion. Frugal
employer but enjoys treating himself. Owner/operator of a small private bank, specializing in
short term loans aka payday loans. Connections to larger, unnamed Bank. Has become extremely
wealthy from usury loan rates and preying on the working poor.
Roberta (Bobbie) Cratchit: Female, 35 - 45. Scrooge’s chief clerk. Underpaid and overworked.
Brilliant but has hit ‘glass ceiling’. Matriarch of family of seven. Very atuned.
Freda Scrooge-Smythe: Female, late 30s-40s. Scrooge’s niece. A successful entrepreneur loved
by her employees. Genial and outgoing. Married to Lucy; a partnership Scrooge strongly
disapproves of.
Businessman: Male, late 30s to late 70s. Works in the financial centre of London: The City. Proactive Humanist.
Businesswoman: Female, late 30s to late 50s. As above but slightly less experienced in The City.
Unaware of Scrooge’s reputation but feisty.
Jacob Marley: Male, dead (died aged early-mid 60s). Appears worse for wear and is a weary
soul.
Ghost of Christmas Past: Female or male (all ghosts of one gender). Oldest of ghosts. Very
colourful and exuberant but also very very deep.
Young Scrooge: Male, preteen. Non-speaking role. Solitary dreamer of adventures and lover of
books.
Teen Scrooge: Male, mid-teens. Solitary still but now more cynical and disillusioned.
Pen: Female, aged 10 -13. Scrooge’s younger sister. A bit frail, very light-hearted.
Ms. Fezziwig: Female, aged 40 - 65. Innovative, progressive banker developing a co-op system.
Jovial and kind-hearted.
Apprentice Scrooge/Young Banker Scrooge: Male, late teens/early 20s. (could be doubled with
Teen Scrooge). Turning point in Scrooge’s life. Traces of mid 1960s style but becoming a Young
Conservative; much more restrained but also arrogant and sharp-tongued.
Dick Wilkins: Male, late teens, early 20s. Apprentice at bank with Scrooge. Equally smart as
Scrooge but his political opposite. Quite generous and outgoing.
Stella single/married: Female, early 20s - early 30s. Scrooge’s only love. A bright and
committed idealist who sees only the best in Scrooge. Later a married young mother living in
Kensington.
Stella’s Husband: Male, late 30s. Stella’s successful musician husband.
Ghost of Christmas Present: (gender as others) Mid-aged of ghosts. Slightly flamboyant,
shimmery.
Young Cratchit 1: Female, 7 - 10ish. Very few lines. Provides general enthusiasm.
Young Cratchit 2: Male, 7 - 10ish. As above.
George Cratchit; Male, 35 - 55. Bobbie’s husband. Currently unemployed and a proud stay-athome dad. Gets on well with kids. Not fond of Scrooge.
Martha Cratchit: Female, late teens, early 20s. Recent school graduate now interning in the
fashion industry.
Tiny Tim: Male, preteen. Bright young man crippled by an unidentified disorder.
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Peter Cratchit: Male, late teens, early 20s. Younger brother of Martha. Transitioning from
school to workforce.
Lucy: Female, mid 20s to mid 30s. Freda Scrooge-Smythe’s partner.
Ghost of Christmas Future: (gender as others) Youngest of ghosts. Very dark and foreboding.
Housekeeper: Female, indeterminate age.
Cook: Female or male, indeterminate age.
Undertaker’s Assistant: Male, indeterminate age.
Boy On Street: Male, pre-teen. (could be doubled part)
3-4 Street Musicians: Appear on- and off-stage. Play carols and some SFX.
Some parts may be doubled. Also opportunity for extras (stage crew) as passers-by, etc.
Time: Contemporary London. The private bank of Scrooge and Marley is located in The City
aka The Square Mile.
Tech: When house lights are up the stage looks almost bare. Backdrop/ scrim: Fuzzy, blocky
shapes down low with London skyline silhouette and night sky above. Twinkling lights in
windows and sky. Otherwise stage is bare and set pieces (e.g. doors, windows, boxes to suggest
chairs, desks etc.) are taken on/off to suggest spaces. Actors mime interaction with other,
invisible fixtures.
Lighting: Moody, brightening as Scrooge does. FX galore.
Act 1 Prologue
Setting: A cold winter street with mist and blowing snow. Several street musicians Stage
Left. Poorly dressed and visibly cold they have simple instruments and are gamely playing
God Rest Ye, Merry Gentlemen, while accepting coins from passersby. Finally, too cold to
play any longer, they pack up and move away Stage Right as the light fades. The drummer
flips a large box (or tea crate etc.) over and it becomes a gravestone, with ‘Jacob Marley,
RIP’ on its face. As they exit they pass Scrooge (entering Stage Right), who glowers at them
and gestures for them to be gone. Scrooge stands before the gravestone as the wind moans
and mist drifts across the ground. Scrooge is lightly dressed but ignores the freezing cold.
Scrooge: Why Jacob? Why? (pause, sound of wind) What? Oh, never mind. (shivers) Bah!
Humbug! (Shuffles off Stage Right)
(Lights down. Set change.)
Act 1 Scene 1
Setting: The office of the banking firm Scrooge & Marley. Down Stage Right, hunched
over a small desk is Roberta (Bobbie) Cratchit. Up Stage Right is a freestanding office
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
door, with ‘Marley and Scrooge - Private Bank/Loans’ on its window. Down Stage Left
Scrooge stands, reading some papers, but also keeping an eye on Cratchit.
(Lights up)
Scrooge: You’ll make sure all those liens and notices of foreclosure are drawn up in time for the
evening mail Mrs. Cratchit. I don’t want anyone to be claiming they didn’t get Her Majesty’s
registered mail as a reason to delay any payments due me. Over the years I’ve learned that many
people are low on funds at this ever so jolly time of the year. And they dream up a charming
variety of excuses to not send me my Christmas cheer! Hah! Bah! Speaking of which: you have
that list of loan defaulters for the barrister’s process server? We’ll want all the writs served
before the New Year Mrs. Cratchit.
Bobbie Cratchit: Yes sir. All one hundred and seventy-two are ready for your signature Mr.
Scrooge.
Scrooge: This ridiculous holiday wreaks havoc on the system Mrs. Cratchit. The wheels of
industry should not stop turning for an old fashioned and redundant holiday. It generates so little
capital considering the waste of time and money that could be well spent to elsewhere. An
investment package with a good return. For me that is! (laughs) I’ll never understand how
frivolous Christmas is. What are you gaping at? Back to work Mrs. Cratchit if we hope to depart
before the bells toll midnight!
Bobbie Cratchit: Eh, yes sir Mr. Scrooge. Yes, I’m on it...
Scrooge: And really, if need be, you can stay a bit later tonight to make sure all the other
paperwork is done and ready for filing after the Christmas holiday. And then we have that other
ridiculous holiday in a week. Bah!
Bobbie Cratchit: Yes, New Years Eve is in a week Mr. Scrooge. (meekly) I’ll get all the work
done sir. I do hope to be home on time for Christmas Eve festivities with the family Mr.
Scrooge, sir.
Scrooge: Mrs. Cratchit! How long have you worked for me?
Bobbie Cratchit: Close to seven years sir.
Scrooge: Yes. Six years, five months, and four days to be precise. Precision counts Mrs.
Cratchit! And in that time have you ever known me to shy away from doing the necessary work
to keep this business profitable? Especially at this time of year?
Bobbie Cratchit: No sir.
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Scrooge: No! That’s right. Life is not beer and skittles. Work is what keeps the money flowing in
Mrs. Cratchit. And that money is what keeps us wealthy and healthy enough. “A pound in the
pocket is a man’s best friend” as my former associate Mr. Jacob Marley used to say Mrs.
Cratchit.
Bobbie Cratchit: Yes Mr. Scrooge. You have mentioned Mr. Marley’s economic wisdom to me
previously sir. Mr. Marley was box clever I’m sure sir.
Scrooge: And I fear I shall have to keep reminding you of it Mrs. Cratchit. (pause. Looks out to
skyline. As if to self.) It’s a blustery cold night. Same as the night poor Jacob died. Smack-bang
in the middle of our busiest season. Damned inconsiderate of Jacob, that.
Bobbie Cratchit (turning to see out ‘window’): Yes, it does look very cold out tonight sir.
Scrooge: You do not have time to enjoy the view Cratchit! Your view is there! (points to fourth
wall) Your view is of the unending paper work you have to do to keep those vermin out there
sending their payments in. Far too many of them think that being on the dole means that they do
not have to keep up their payments to me. I’m sure you realize this yourself Mrs. Cratchit, with
your own husband being on the dole. I’m surprised you’re not asking to be kept on late tonight.
Or perhaps you need a loan? Surely you must need the extra money to satisfy the needs of your
many children. How many is it now? What possesses a woman to have so many children in this
day and age ...
Bobbie Cratchit (cutting him off): Yes, Mr. Scrooge. George has been down to the company
and union offices for interviews and ...
Scrooge (cutting her off): We do not have time to discuss the trials and tribulations of your
extensive family Mrs. Cratchit. I have told you before that I see no reason a body should not be
gainfully employed and supporting the economy of our country unless they’re dead. Even the
dying can function well enough to realize a profit for somebody I’m sure. But, enough chinwagging! You, and I, have work to do. As that sign over your desk says: “Mind the pennies and
the pounds will take care of themselves!” (both turn back to their work)
Freda (entering Stage Right through door): A very Merry Christmas, uncle!
Scrooge: Who’s that? Oh, it’s you. Christmas! Bah! Humbug!
Freda: Christmas a ‘humbug’, uncle! (undertone) How quaint! You don’t mean that, I’m sure?
Scrooge: I do. “Merry Christmas!” What right have you to wish me to be “merry”? What
possible reason? You cannot afford to be merry. You’re not a lord of the land, and only remotely
well-off. Those that can afford holidays can celebrate them. Not people like you and I. We must
persevere to keep the money moving our way young lady.
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Freda (gaily): Whoa! What right have you to be dismal? What reason have you to be sullen?
You’re rich enough.
Scrooge: Bah! Humbug!
Freda: Oh. Don’t be angry, uncle!
Scrooge: What else can I be? I live in a world filled with fools! Merry Christmas! Christmas is a
humbug! (pause) What is Christmas time? A time for running up their credit when people have
no money. A time for finding yourself another year older, but barely an hour richer. If I could
have my way, every idiot who spouts “Merry Christmas” would be boiled in Christmas pudding
and buried with a stake of holly through the heart. (Seeing Freda’s shocked expression laughs.)
Boiled in Christmas pudding! Their heart pierced... (laughs in fits)
Freda: Uncle!
Scrooge: Niece! Keep Christmas in your own way, and let me keep it in mine.
Freda: Keep it! You don’t keep it.
Scrooge: Let me totally avoid it then. (pause) Bah! A lot of good Christmas will do you or has
ever done you!
Freda: Oh, I think there are many ways I’ve accomplished some good at Christmas Uncle,
although I may not have profited. I think of the Christmas season as a good season. A forgiving,
charitable, joyous season. Perhaps the only time of the year when all people seem as one. Fellow
travellers on a journey who knows where? (sees Scrooge is getting impatient) And that’s why
uncle, though Christmas has never put a pound in my pocket, I believe it’s done me good, and
will continue to do so. And so I say “Merry Christmas” to you Uncle Scrooge and to you Ms.
Cratchit!
(Cratchit, caught up by Freda’s speech, applauds - then flustered, and realizing her
impertinence, she goes back to her work.)
Scrooge (to Cratchit): Let me hear another sound from you, and you’ll keep your Christmas by
losing your job! (to Freda) You’re quite a powerful speaker, Freda! (disdainfully) Perhaps you
should go into politics! Or perhaps you already have?
Freda: Don’t be angry, uncle. Please! Come dine with Lucy and I tomorrow. We have a
marvelous meal planned. A few friends will be joining us. (pause) Who knows? You might even
meet some potential clients!
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Scrooge: Yes! Yes! I’ll come dine with you and be best of chums with you and your Lucy and
your lovely friends! (pause) No! I’ll see you in Hell first!
Freda (aghast): Uncle Scrooge! Why? Why do you say these things?
Scrooge (thinking): Why did you get married? To that woman!
Freda: Why? Because I fell in love.
Scrooge: Because you fell in love! (dismissively) Good afternoon!
Freda: Now, uncle... You never came to see me before I got married. Why give it as a reason for
not coming now?
Scrooge (waving Freda out): Good afternoon!
Freda: I want nothing from you. I ask for nothing. Why can’t we be friends at least?
Scrooge: Good afternoon!
Freda (turning to go): And A Happy New Year Uncle Ebenezer!
Scrooge: Good afternoon young lady!
Freda (stopping at Cratchit’s desk): And a Merry Christmas to you Ms. Cratchit!
Bobbie Cratchit: And to you Ms. Scrooge-Smythe, a very Merry Christmas indeed.
Freda: How are your husband and family? (Scrooge is glowering at them. Glancing at his
watch.)
Bobbie Cratchit: They’re all well. That is... well, Tiny Tim is still on crutches but we think
another treatment may finally solve his condition.
Scrooge (undertone): More waste of the National Health Services’ money I dare say.
Freda (glances at Scrooge): I’m sure it will all go well for Tiny Tim, Roberta. But if you need
anything, anything at all you know you can call us.
Bobbie Cratchit: Thank you Ms. Scrooge-Smythe. (Scrooge is starting to twitch and hop,
rustling his papers.) I best get back to work before (nods at Scrooge) y’know?
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Freda (quietly): Yes, yes. Merry Christmas Roberta and all my best to George and the children.
And for the new year also. I’m sure young Tim will be racing about in no time.
Bobbie Cratchit: Thank you. And a Happy New Year to you Ms.! (feels Scrooge’s eyes on her
and quickly turns back to work)
(Freda exits.)
Scrooge: There’s another idiot! My clerk, making three hundred pounds a week, with an out-ofwork husband and growing family, talking about a Merry Christmas. I could go bonkers at this
rate! Bah!
(A businessman and businesswoman of the City enter, checking the name on door as they
enter. During their exchange with Scrooge Cratchit works at her desk, occasionally
eavesdropping. )
Businesswoman: Scrooge and Marley’s, I believe. Have I the pleasure of addressing Mr.
Scrooge, or Mr. Marley?
Scrooge: Mr. Marley has been dead for seven years sir. He died seven years ago tonight exactly.
Businessman (handing Scrooge his card): No doubt his liberal attitude is honoured by
yourself? (Scrooge frowns at the word ‘liberal’.) During the holiday season, offices in The City
donate provisions for impoverished indigents. They suffer greatly in these cold winter months,
Mr. Scrooge. Many thousands need only the most basic necessities and comforts to survive the
winter cold, much less enjoy the Christmas season.
Scrooge (thoughtfully): Are there no prisons?
Businesswoman (puzzled): There are plenty of prisons, Mr. Scrooge.
Scrooge: The social housing and detention centres are still operating?
Businesswoman: I’m afraid they still do Mr. Scrooge.
Scrooge (more and more disgusted): And the welfare state? It is still functioning? Income
support? Pensions? National Health? Disability Allowances? Housing Benefits? (frowns
towards Ms. C.) Maternity Pay!?
Businessman: Social benefits exist Mr. Scrooge. But they don’t provide enough, especially for
many who...
Scrooge (cuts him off): The Vagrancy Act of 1824 ‘s still being applied freely within The City?
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Businessman: Well! Yes, Mr. Scrooge.
Businesswoman: Regretfully that archaic act is still in use. Interesting that you would even
know of it Mr. Scrooge.
Scrooge: Why, yes, I have requested some diligence by the police on that particular law. I was
afraid, from what you said at first, that something had happened to stop enforcement of it. I’m
glad to hear that you know of it also, mmmm, Mrs, mmmm?
Businesswoman: There are few agencies that extend Christmas cheer to the many poor Mr.
Scrooge. That’s why we, concerned business leaders of The Square Mile, are undertaking to raise
funds. We wish to buy those on the streets enough food, clothing and blankets that they don’t
freeze at our feet as we walk from the Tube or parking lot. Oh. I forgot you live in the
neighbourhood don’t you Mr. Scrooge? (pause) We choose Christmas, this season of supposed
good cheer, because it is a time when poverty is most keenly felt, while we, the comfortably
well-off, celebrate freely. (pause) What might I put you down for Mr. Scrooge?
Scrooge: Nothing!
Businesswoman: You wish to be anonymous?
Scrooge: I wish to be left alone! Since you ask me what I wish that’s my answer. I don’t make
merry myself at Christmas and I can’t afford to help lazy people make merry. I’m forced to
support the establishments I’ve mentioned. They cost enough. Those who are badly off can go
there. Or they can go to... (Scrooge breaks off)
Businesswoman: Sadly, some would rather die than go to the social centres, or even seek
welfare. They’d sooner stay on the freezing, wet, icy streets, huddled under cardboard.
Scrooge: If some would rather die they’d better do it, and decrease the surplus population!
Besides, excuse me, I really don’t believe that they’d sooner die.
Businessman (shocked): Really Mr. Scrooge! How can you not believe it?
Scrooge: It’s not my business. It’s enough that a man understands his own business, much less
interferes with other people’s. My business occupies me constantly. Good afternoon. Close the
door after you please. Costs enough to heat this place especially this time of the year. What time
of the year did you call it? “Season of supposed good cheer”? Not when you’re paying the
increased heating bill due to people opening and closing the door without profit.
Businessman: Oh! Mr. Scrooge, I...
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Scrooge (cutting him off): Bugger off! I have business to attend to.
(The two business people retreat. Scrooge, now in an improved mood, busies himself. The
room gradually darkens. Cratchit turns on her light and Scrooge glares at her. Traffic noise
and Christmas music are heard from outside. Two passing boys, laughing, call in “A Merry
Christmas Mr. Scrooge” from outside the door. Scrooge hurls a ruler at the door. A bell
tolls the hour of 6.)
Bobbie Cratchit: Well, that’s everything all done Mr. Scrooge. I’ve sent you all the documents
by the office intranet, sent the legal forms to the barrister via that courier you yelled at and left
the bank funds to be sorted by you personally. (starts picking up and readying to go.)
Scrooge (to Cratchit): Intranet, yes. I’ll see that later Mrs. Cratchit. After Baxter’s gone over
them. And of course I’ll attend to the funds personally. That’s what the personal touch in
banking is. (pause) You’ll want all day tomorrow off, I suppose? And the next day too?
Bobbie Cratchit: Yes please Mr. Scrooge. If that’s convenient, sir.
Scrooge: It’s not convenient and it’s not fair. It’s outrageous! If I were to hold back 100 pounds
for it, I imagine you’d think yourself hard done by? (Cratchit shrugs, faint smile) And yet you
don’t think me ill used, when I pay two days wages for no work at all?
Bobbie Cratchit: Christmas comes only once a year sir. It’s a time to spend with family and...
Scrooge: A poor excuse for picking a man’s pocket every twenty-fifth and twenty-sixth of
December! But, by law, you must have those two days. Just be sure to be here all the earlier the
following morning. (muttering) And then there’s New Years! No wonder the economy’s failing.
Bobbie Cratchit: Yes sir Mr. Scrooge. I’ll be here by 9am! Have a Merry Christmas sir!
(Scrooge growls at her. Cratchit, wrapping her long scarf and meagre coat tight, is out the
door in a flash. Scrooge shuffles some papers into his brief case, checks to make sure all the
lights and heaters are off and goes out the door. He exits Stage Right. The door and set
pieces are removed by stage crew ‘pedestrians’ who offer Scrooge various Christmas
greetings as he reappears, miming his walk home, crossing from Stage Left to Right. Street
musicians are playing a carol. He gestures at them to move along. He stops and buys a
newspaper from a vendor. Eventually he comes to an exterior door, Up Stage Right, with a
knocker on it. He stops, bends and fumbles for his keys. As he puts his key to the door lock
the door knocker extrudes from the door and becomes the face of Marley. Startled Scrooge
stares at the apparition, turns for a moment looking about to see if anyone else has seen the
specter and then turns back to it. But it is once again a knocker. Scrooge, drawing a breath,
turns the key, opens the door and looks behind it.)
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
(Lights down. Door is flipped around, showing ‘interior’ side.)
Act 1 Scene 2
Time: Same moment.
Setting: Lights come up half way. Scrooge is looking behind the door. He enters, closing
door behind him. Takes his shoes off and hangs coat on rack by the door. He looks at the
back of the door. He turns and walks to Stage Left, frequently stopping and listening
(chains are faintly heard from all sides). He is crossing Up Stage, in a ‘hallway’. As he
crosses an interior door is placed Down Stage Left, about four feet into stage. A window,
simple single bed, hatstand, huge flatscreen TV, bedside table with lamp, a clock and TV
remote are also positioned downstage, behind him as he progresses. Scrooge turns and
enters his bedroom, carefully locking the door behind him. He turns on his bedside light
(lights up full) He removes his tie and outer clothing then wraps the dressing gown (hung
on back of door, with a toothpick in the pocket) around himself.
Scrooge: Christmas! Humbug! A strain on the nerves. (He paces the room. A clock chimes
twelve midnight. The clanking of chains is again faintly heard from off-Stage Right.
Nervous, Scrooge sits on the edge of his bed.) It’s humbug still! I won’t believe it. (Marley
appears at the window.) Do I know you? You’re dressed just like Jacob Marley! But you look...
it’s... his... his ghost! (Leaps up. When Marley beckons him Scrooge tentatively shuffles
towards him. Marley steps through the window.) You! What...what do you want with me?
Marley: Much Ebenezer Scrooge!
Scrooge: Who, or what, exactly are you?
Marley: Ask me who I (pause) was.
Scrooge: Who were you then? (raising his voice) You’re fussy, for a a ghost that is.
Marley: In life I was your partner, Jacob Marley.
Scrooge (doubtfully): Can you, can you sit down?
Marley: I can.
Scrooge: Do it then. (Marley sits on Scrooge’s bed.)
Marley: You don’t believe in me.
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Scrooge: I don’t.
Marley: What evidence do you need of my existence, beyond that of your senses?
Scrooge: I don’t know.
Marley: Why do you doubt your senses Ebenezer? You never doubted your senses before.
Scrooge: Because, every little thing affects the senses. A slight disorder of the stomach makes
them questionable. You may be the result of an undigested chunk of beef, a bit of cheese or an
underdone potato. You’ve more of gravy than of the grave about you, whatever you are! (They
gaze at one another. Scrooge is losing his nerve. Pulls toothpick from pocket) You see this
toothpick?
Marley: I do.
Scrooge: You are not looking at it.
Marley: But I see it, whether I’m looking at it or not.
Scrooge: Well! If I swallow this, for the rest of the day I’ll be persecuted by a crowd of goblins,
all of my own creation. Humbug, I tell you! All humbug!
(Marley, uttering a frightful wailing, crying sound unwinds the bandage from around his
head, exposing rotting flesh.)
Scrooge (falling to his knees): Mercy! You’re a frightful apparition. Why do you harass me?
Marley: Ebenezer Scrooge! Man of this world! Do you believe in me or not?
Scrooge: I do. I must. But why do you walk the earth, and why do you come to me?
Marley: In life we grow and develop by walking the earth and interacting with other living
beings. If we do not go forth in life, we are condemned to do so after death. I am doomed to
wander through the world and witness which I cannot share, but might have if I’d tried. (pause)
And how I could have created happiness for others! (cries and shakes chains)
Scrooge (cringing): You are chained. Tell me why.
Marley: I forged this chain during my life. I made it, link by link, yard by yard. I wrapped it
around myself of my own free will, and of my own free I wear it. You don’t recognize it?
(Scrooge is trembling) Would you like to know the size of the strong chain you carry? My chain
was as heavy and long as this when I died, seven long Christmas Eves ago. You have worked
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
hard on your chain ever since then. Yours is a ponderous chain Ebenezer! (Chuckles. Scrooge
looks around himself for chain.)
Scrooge: Jacob, dear old Jacob Marley, tell me more. But of contentment, Jacob!
Marley: I cannot. Contentment comes from other regions, Ebenezer Scrooge, and is conveyed by
other spirits, to other kinds of people. Nor can I tell you all that I would like to. Very little is
permitted to me. I cannot rest. I cannot stay. I cannot linger anywhere. My spirit never walked
beyond our banking business in life. My spirit never moved beyond the narrow confines of our
money-making enterprise. Now I’ve long and weary journeys before me.
Scrooge: You must have been very slow, Jacob.
Marley: Slow!
Scrooge: Seven years dead and traveling all the time?
Marley: The whole time. No rest, no peace. Incessantly tortured by remorse for people whom I’d
needlessly harmed. I’ve travelled long and hard Ebenezer.
Scrooge: Oh. So... you travel quickly?
Marley: On the wings of the wind.
Scrooge: You’ve travelled a great distance in seven years then. And seen much?
Marley (with much clanking and wailing): Seen? Hah! I was a captive, bound, and doublelocked. I didn’t know about the hard work done by other, friendly spirits, helping this earth pass
through eternity. Just how much it takes to achieve the best possible good. I didn’t know there’s
no amount of regret to amend for misusing one’s own opportunities! That was me! That was me
indeed.
Scrooge: But, but, you were always a good businessman, Jacob.
Marley: Businessman! People should have been my business. The common welfare should’ve
been my business. Charity, mercy and compassion should’ve been my business. My dealings
with people were but a drop of water in the ocean of my business! (Pauses. Holds chain up at
arm’s length and ponders it.) At this time of the year I suffer most. Why did I walk through
Christmas crowds with my eyes down-turned, and never raise them to see humanity! Were there
no poor people to whom I might have given hope! (Scrooge is appears troubled) Hear me
Scrooge! My time is nearly gone.
Scrooge: I will. But don’t be hard on me! Don’t be so tense and nervous, Jacob! Please!
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Marley (thoughtfully): I don’t know how you can see me. I’ve sat invisible beside you so many
times. That is no small part of my suffering. (pause) I’m here tonight to warn you, that you have
still a chance and hope of escaping my fate. A chance and hope that I can help you with,
Ebenezer.
Scrooge: You were always a good mate to me Jacob. Thank you!
Marley: You will be haunted by three spirits. (Scrooge looks disappointed)
Scrooge: That’s the chance and hope you mentioned, Jacob?
Marley: It is.
Scrooge: I, I think I’d sooner not participate then.
Marley: Without their visits you cannot hope to avoid the path I tread. Expect the first tomorrow,
when the clock tolls One.
Scrooge: Couldn’t I take them all at once, and be done with it Jacob?
Marley: Expect the second on the next night at the same hour. The third the next night when the
last stroke of Twelve has ceased to vibrate. You will not see me again. For your own sake,
remember what has passed between us!
(Marley takes his bandage and wraps it once again around his head. Then he walks
backward, beckoning Scrooge to follow. As he nears the window the sounds of wailing
spirits can be heard. Lights flicker across the window. Marley leans back, hands reach in
and he is carried off by other spirits. Scrooge stands watching and listening until he can
stand it no more. Covering his ears, turns back to his room. He picks up his bedside lamp
and shines it around the room. He goes to the door and checks that it is still locked.)
Scrooge: Hum, er, hum (he cannot speak, but stuttering returns to his bed, turning off the
light as he crawls under the blankets.)
(Lights fade to black.)
Act ll Scene 1
Time: indeterminate (sfx of mixed wind and bells)
Setting: Scrooge’s bedroom
13
A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
(Lights come up to dim. Scrooge awakens and turns on his bedside light. Lights up. Clock
chimes 12. Puzzled Scrooge checks his bedside clock and looks towards the window.)
Scrooge: Why, it’s not possible, that I’ve slept through a whole day and into another night. And
it couldn’t be that something’s happened to the sun, and it’s really noon hour! (Scrooge goes to
window and looks out. He listens intently. No sounds at all. He is puzzled. Involuntarily
shivers. Returns to bed. Turns off light. Lights dim. Scrooge tosses and turns. Stops. Sits
up.) Was it a dream or not?
(Lights flicker. Distant, erratic bell tolls in wind are heard. Scrooge jerks up and turns
light back on. Lights up. A big bell tolls ‘one’.)
Scrooge (relieved): The hour mentioned, and nothing’s here!
(Flash of light. Peel of thunder. Shrieking, rending sounds. Scrooge leaps from bed and
runs to window. While he’s looking out the window the ‘locked’ door opens and the Ghost
of Christmas Past enters, closing the door and locking door.)
Scrooge (hearing the door lock, turns): Are you the Spirit, that I was told would come?
Ghost Past: I am!
Scrooge: Who are you? What are you?
Ghost Past: I am the Ghost of Christmas Past.
Scrooge: Long Past?
Ghost Past: No. Your past.
Scrooge: Please! Could you dim your aura a bit? (Scrooge attempts to cover the Ghost’s
brilliant hat.)
Ghost Past: What! You attempt so quickly to put out, with worldly hands, the light I give? Isn’t
it enough that you are one of those whose passions made this cap, and force me through many
years to wear it low upon my brow!
Scrooge (cowering, sits on edge of bed): No! No! I did not mean to offend you! (pause) What
business brings you here?
Ghost Past: Your welfare!
Scrooge: Well, thank you! I’m very grateful for your concern. And, uh, I don’t mean to be rude,
but wouldn’t it be better if I just had a good night’s sleep?
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Ghost Past: Hah! To your reclamation, then. Take heed! (reaches out and grasps Scrooge by
the arm) Rise! and walk with me! (guides Scrooge to window)
Scrooge: No! No! I can’t go out the window. I’m mortal and I’ll fall to my death.
Ghost Past: A touch of my hand here (laying hand on Scrooge heart) and you shall be floating
free in time!
(Lights flicker. Scrooge and Ghost pass through window and off, Stage Right. Lights
down.}
Act ll Scene 2
(Bedroom set pieces are removed; stage now bare. Sound of winter wind, far distant bells.
Lights up. Scrooge and Ghost come back on Stage Right.)
Scrooge (looking around in wonder): Good Lord! I grew up in this place. I was a boy here! In
this very countryside. That must be the Russell’s farm. And over that hill, the creek I often
played in. I feel... like it’s 19...
Ghost Past:Your lip is trembling. And what is that upon your cheek?
Scrooge (trembling voice): It’s a, a tear? (pause) Where’ll we go? Let’s go... take me...
(Scrooge mutters and voice fades)
Ghost Past: Do you remember the way?
Scrooge: Remember it! I could walk it blindfolded. Why, I could ride a bicycle blindfolded down
these lanes.
Ghost Past: Strange you’ve forgotten this place for so many years! Let’s move along.
(As they walk ‘people’ pass by, wishing one another “Merry Christmas” and other seasonal
greetings. Scrooge looks about in wonder; sometimes stopping and pointing or staring.)
Scrooge: Why do they not see us?
Ghost Past: These are but shadows of the things that have been. The people have no
consciousness of us.
(Scrooge is beginning to smile, though looking a bit tearful. As they continue walking a
young boy brings a school desk on Stage Right, behind them, and sits down to read a
Rupert Annual book. Scrooge and the Ghost, now Stage Left turn and the Ghost points
towards the boy.)
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Ghost Past: The school is not quite deserted, A solitary child, neglected by everyone, is left there
alone.
Scrooge: I know this place! (Sobs. Staring in wonder he approaches and looks over boy’s
shoulder at the Rupert book. He’s between laughing and crying): Why, it’s Rupert Bear! It’s
dear old honest Rupert Bear! Oh, yes, I remember! One Christmas, when I, (pause) when this
child was left here all alone, he discovered Rupert Bear, for the first time. And Bill Badger! And
Edward Trunk! And Pong Ping and Algy the Pug and oh! their adventures! They’d start in
Nutwood and Rupert would be on an errand and then... he’d be off on an adventure in an exotic
land! (suddenly downcast) Bah!! His Mother had passed away. His Father had taken to drink.
His Father was never there. He was left alone in the care of, of the brothers and sisters. He was
alone. Alone with his books, his thoughts, his dreams. (Pause. Puts hand in pocket and
mutters.) I wish (pause) but it’s too late now.
Ghost Past: What’s the matter?
Scrooge: Nothing. Nothing. There were some boys wishing me “A Merry Christmas” outside
my door last night. I really should have given them something. That’s all.
Ghost Past: Hmm... Let us see another Christmas!
(Lights flicker. The boy picks up the desk and moves off.)
Act ll Scene 3
(A depressed and thoughtful Scrooge and the Ghost ‘walk’ across to Stage Left as a
teenaged boy enters from behind them, places a chair and sits, gazing outwards, a notebook
on his lap. As Scrooge and the Ghost turn to see him Pen runs in.)
Pen: Eb! Hey hey! Guess what? I’m here to fetch you home! (Claps hands, and bends down
laughing) To bring you home! To bring you home! Whooie! Finally, we’ll all be together!
Young Scrooge: Pen? What? No, I’m not going home with him, with Father. Pen? What?
Pen: No! Yes! Listen! Father’s better. He’s cured Eb! He’s not drinking anymore and spending
all the money at the races and pubs. He’s changed. He really has. I asked him again if you could
come home. And he said “Yes” and that we would all be together for Christmas before you start
your apprenticeship.
Young Scrooge: Apprenticeship?
Pen: Father says you’re to apprentice to be a bank clerk with Ms. Fezziwig! You’ll never have to
come back here again. But first, we’ll all be together this Christmas. We’ll have the merriest time
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
in the world. We’re a family again. (pause) Without Mom of course. Another Christmas without
Mom. (sighs then brightens up) But, we’re a family again!
Young Scrooge: But Pen... I’m to come home, we have Christmas together and then I go to Ms.
Fezziwig in London? Doesn’t Father want me to live at home and continue going to school? So
that I can be an archeologist?
Pen: Oh... oh Eb... I’m sorry. No. Father, he, he, hasn’t found work yet. He’s on the dole but, no,
no Eb, it’s not like it used to be. He’s not drinking. He’s not sad and then angry and no, no Eb.
He’s fine. I can live at home with him. But, but, he can’t afford to have us both at home Eb.
Young Scrooge: Ah, Pen... Bah! All I ever wanted to do... oh, never mind! I’m sorry. It’ll be fine.
Pen: Eb, you’ll do great no matter what you do. You’ll always be best at what you do. You might
have been a famous archeologist but now you’ll be the best clerk in one of the finest financial
institutions in The City. Isn’t that grand? But come on, let’s go home for Christmas! You won’t
believe the big goose we’ve got!
Scrooge: Pen, Pen... if it wasn’t for her...
(Pen grabs Young Scrooge by the arm and they exit Stage Right)
(Scrooge and Ghost drift to Stage Left.)
Ghost Past: Pen was always a delicate creature, so fragile. But she had a large heart!
Scrooge: She did. You’re right. I won’t deny it, Spirit!
Ghost Past: She died a woman and had children, I believe.
Scrooge: One child.
Ghost Past: True. Your niece! Freda?
Scrooge (uneasily): Uh... yes.
Act ll Scene 4
(Lights flicker. Sounds of the city return. Door, with Fezziwig & Co. - Private Bank on
window, Down Stage Centre-Left between Scrooge/Ghost and Fezziwig who is seated at
desk, Right-Centre Stage.)
Ghost Past: Do you know this door?
Scrooge: Of course! I was apprenticed here!
17
A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
(They go through door and see Ms. Fezziwig.)
Scrooge: Why, it’s Mrs. Fezziwig! Bless her heart; Fezziwig’s alive again! I... I... Oh!
(Fezziwig looks at her watch and pushes back from desk.)
Fezziwig (calling off to Stage Right): Yo ho ho! Ebenezer! Dick!
(Apprentice Scrooge enters with Dick.)
Scrooge (to ghost): Dick Wilkins! Why, there he is. We were great chums Dick and I. At first
that is... (realization) Oh! Poor Dick! Hmmm. Oh my.
Fezziwig: Lads! Stop work right now. It’s Christmas Eve, Dick. Christmas, Ebenezer! Lock the
doors before I get the beer out of the fridge or we’ll have the whole neighbourhood in here.
(Apprentice Scrooge and Dick race to door and ‘lock’ it.) Cheers! Pull up a pew lads. Let’s
have a toast! To our good health!
(Dick and Apprentice Scrooge mime pushing desks and chairs back while Mrs. F brings in
food and drink. Street musicians appear outside door, Stage Left, and softly play carols.
Beer is opened and Fezziwig and the boys gather around.)
Apprentice Scrooge: To our glowing health and growing wealth!
Dick: Ha! Ha! Eb, never one to lose sight of one’s dreams and ambitions.
Fezziwig: Boys, boys! It’s Christmas Eve! Business can wait. It’s time for good cheer. (raises
her glass and drinks) And oh! by the way... I have a little something for each of you. (hands
them envelopes) A small Christmas bonus lads. Business has been good! Cheers!
Dick: Thank you Mrs. Fezziwig!
Apprentice Scrooge: Well, yes thank you! I had no idea...
Fezziwig : No thank you lads. You may be young but you’re both brilliant at banking. (laughs)
Each in his own way of course. (pause) And how are you two spending Christmas? With family?
Dick: Yes, I’m going home to Hounslow for a big family meal. My dad loves a big turkey with
all the trimmings! Mmm... what about you Eb?
Apprentice Scrooge: No, no. Pen’s not well and Father, he suggested I stay in the city. He felt
the excitement of my visiting might do more harm than good for Pen.
Fezziwig: I’m sorry to hear that Eb. Have you nowhere to go for Christmas?
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Apprentice Scrooge: Oh, I’ll be fine m’am. I’m not big on Christmas anyways....
Dick: You can’t mean that Eb! “Not big on Christmas.”? It’s the most joyous time of the year!
Fezziwig: Now Dick, why don’t you invite Eb home to yours. It sounds like you have a feast for
forty!
Apprentice Scrooge: No no no. I’ll be fine. I enjoy a quiet Christmas by myself. The spending
of so much money on such frivolous things as gifts and vast quantities of food is quite vulgar
really. It’s enough to make one quite ill. No, thank you both, I’ll perhaps spend my time going
over potential loan defaulters....
Dick (laughing): Oh, Ebenezer you’ve such a bizarre and droll sense of humour. (Scrooge looks
off, obviously perturbed) The Christmas spirit will catch you up one of these days!
Fezziwig: Dick! Eb! Let’s not squabble about how we celebrate Christmas. Here, here top up
your beers. Having a beer with you Eb reminds me of all the times I shared with your father over
a pint. (Scrooge looks disgruntled. Embarrassed Fezziwig looks at watch): Lads! Speaking
of family, it’s time I sped home or I’ll miss a fine Christmas Eve dinner! It’s been a wonderful
evening and I bid you both a “Merry Christmas”. (pause. Looks out ‘window’) It’s an ugly, wet,
cold night out. Look at that snow blowing. You know if you’d like to book rooms in the hotel
next door put it on the company account. I wouldn’t want you to freeze to death waiting for a cab
or slip under the wheels of a bus. Besides: there’s more beer in the fridge and plenty of tea
sandwiches here. Make yourselves at home! (Laughs. Departs through door, tosses money in
musician’s case and goes off Stage Left.)
Apprentice Scrooge (overlapping with Dick): Good night Mrs. Fezziwig! See you in the New
Year!
Dick: Merry Christmas m’am! All my best to your family!
Ghost Past: A small matter, to make these silly boys so full of gratitude.
Scrooge: Small!
Ghost Past: Wasn’t it? She spent only a few pounds of your mortal money; perhaps ten or
twenty. Is that so much that she deserves this praise?
Scrooge: It wasn’t that. (pause) It wasn’t just that, Spirit. It was within her power to make us
happy or unhappy; to make our work easy or hard. Her power was in things so slight, so
insignificant that it’s impossible to add them up. The happiness she gave was as great as if it cost
a fortune. It’s just that... (feels the Ghost looking at him wryly and stops.)
Ghost Past: What is the matter?
Scrooge: Nothing in particular.
19
A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Ghost Past: I think something is, hmmm?
Scrooge: No. (pause) Well, OK. (sighs) I should like to have spoken with Dick just then. That’s
all. (pause) Or to Mrs. Fezziwig. Or even to Mrs. Cratchit in my office. (big sigh) Oh, my.
(The Ghost signals Scrooge to be quiet and listen to the apprentices; now both a bit tipsy)
Apprentice Scrooge: Brilliant evening! My favourite beer, lots of snacks and a warm room to
sleep in.
Dick: Compared to your chilly flat this will be quite cosy for you tonight. Mrs. Fezzie’s a
generous soul isn’t she?
Apprentice Scrooge: She is. (pause) I don’t miss my family, except for Pen of course, but Mrs.
F’s been like a mother to me. (undertone) And more a father than my real father by far.... ah,
well.... (has a drink)
Dick: Yes like a mother and father both, or or or... Well, we couldn’t have a better mentor.
Apprentice Scrooge: I agree Dick. Mrs. F’s done grand things for me. A real mentor showing
me all the ropes. She’s even allowed me the run of the bank. Or to run the bank I should say.
(embarrassed) You know what I mean Dick. Here’s to you, Dick. (pause, drinks) Fezzi’s
grand. I love her for it! (pause) I love the bank. The way the money moves, flowing in and and
in and more in. So much money... The smell of it... (laughs) Oh, I love to run my hands through
other people’s dosh in the morning Dick! (pause) Though there would be more if I managed the
biz.
Dick: What! Really? And just how would you manage things differently Ebenezer Scrooge?
Apprentice Scrooge: There are many things I’d do differently. For instance: you’ve seen how
we lose money on bad loans Dick. We help people we shouldn’t give the time of day to. Widows
without incomes. Out-of-work labourers living off the government dole. People who should be
pulling themselves up by their bootstraps and not looking to us, or the government, for easy
money.
Dick: Easy money? Really Eb? I disagree. Mrs. Fezziwig isn’t a charity. She just gives people a
helping hand and listens to them. Something the big banks don’t do.
Apprentice Scrooge: Bah! That’s where she shows weakness Dick. There are too many idlers.
She should foreclose on ‘em. At least repossess their cars or televisions. That way people will
respect her.
Dick (astounded): Really! Mrs. Fezziwig is greatly respected Eb. You know that. (pause) I’ve
never heard you talk like this Ebenezer. Is it the drink that’s loosened your tongue?
20
A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Apprentice Scrooge: I’m here to learn and move on up Dick. And I’ve learned plenty. Now I’m
ready to move on up!
Dick: Oh! Really? And how you propose to do that?
Apprentice Scrooge: You know my dreams Dick. I’ve been skint. I won’t go back to being poor
or worrying about money ever again. (pause) And, well, my life, life, uh, recently, hm... took an
unexpected turn. For the better! I think...
Dick: Really? How so?
Apprentice Scrooge: I met a bird. Well, a real girl. And she’s, well, she’s... special, y’know.
Dick (cuts in): Yo! Eb! You! A girl! Here I thought you were soooo serious, so focused, boring
even. You’re revealing an Eb I never knew existed.
Apprentice Scrooge: I know, I know. She’s beautiful Dick. She’s... beautiful, and smart, and
sexy and .... everything I’ve dreamed of. She floated into the library one evening while I was
perusing the Financial Times. She expressed an interest in the headlines. (aside) Although her
views were a bit, hmm, socialist. But I’m sure she’ll come around to my way of thinking. She’ll
see how the radical hippie lefties are dragging us down. They’re determined to spend (seems to
be starting a rant but Dick cuts him off) money on useless social projects that benefit only the
lazy...
Dick: Well, well. Ebenezer Scrooge. Distracted by a bird. And a hippie bird at that. Cheers! Hah!
You might well change her. (laughs) Or she may change you. Whoa! What say you to that my
Young Conservative banker friend?
Apprentice Scrooge: Hmm... ha! Well, that’s why I need to get on with it. Mrs. Fezziwig pays
me enough to get by on but I’ll need more dosh. I need Stella to see that I’m a go-getter. I want
to be minted Dick. (looks off) I’ll have a fine house in Kensington and an E-type Jag and and all
the good things in life. (hoists his beer) Beer’s fine for the working classes Dick but I want
wine, women and wealth!
Dick: And how are you going to do all this Eb? Ahhh-hah! Like we talked about? You, me. A
small private bank with an exclusive clientele?
Apprentice Scrooge (embarrassed): Oh. Ah, mmm, no Dick. I’m sorry. The plan changed.
Dick: What? Aahhh.... the young lady.... what’s her name by the way?
Apprentice Scrooge: Stella. Stella by starlight....
Dick: So... Stella is beautiful and... rich!
Apprentice Scrooge: Hmmm... no.
21
A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Dick: Eb! You fell for a girl with no money? Interesting. What is your plan then? You need to fill
me in mate if you and I are to be partners.
Apprentice Scrooge: That’s the part that’s changed Dick.
Dick: What’s changed? That part of what?
Apprentice Scrooge: You and me. Partners. That’s the part.
Dick: What do you mean? We’ve some incredible ideas. We’re the Spirit of the 60s!
Freewheeling! Entrepreneurial. Smart ideas, smart rates and smart suits.
Apprentice Scrooge: I know Dick. I know. You’re a real chum to me and helped me through
some rough times but...
Dick: But what?
Apprentice Scrooge (pause): I’ve met someone else.
Dick: What! Someone besides Stella? I’m becoming confused here mate.
Apprentice Scrooge: No, no... someone else to be partners with. (pause) Jacob. Jacob Marley?
Remember him?
Dick: Jacob Marley? Sure. Yeah. Sure. But Eb! You and me! We talked. We had plans of our
own. (pause) Hold on. Jacob Marley. That ponce from the Hong Kong bank we met at the pub
the other night?
Apprentice Scrooge (huffy): That’s right Dick. He and I think along the same lines. Don’t you
see where all this hippy-dippy, leftie feminist thinking of Mrs. Fezzi’s is going to lead Dick? The
hard workers supporting the lazy bums who’ve no initiative? The way I see it only a small
percent, say about one percent, have the means to really get ahead in this economy.
Dick: That’s just not right Ebenezer! You come from a working-class home. You’ve not had an
easy life. You were lucky enough to have Mrs. Fezziwig offer you an apprenticeship. And now
you’re saying you’re going to turn your back on her and all she represents and follow the
treadmill of the gray men?
Apprentice Scrooge: The working classes are not my people Dick. Some of them work hard
enough. But most of them are just like my father. Nasty, weak sods who love a drink more than
anything else. But they’ll help us reach our goals Dick through their lust for new appliances and
ignorance of the finer points of banking.
22
A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Dick: Oh Eb, Eb. How is it I’ve never seen this in you? And on Christmas Eve! You’re telling me
you’ve got a new girl, a new partner, that you’re leaving Fezziwig & Company and going off to
make your fortune elsewhere?
Apprentice Scrooge: Eh, well not exactly elsewhere Dick.
Dick: What do you mean, “not exactly elsewhere”?
Apprentice Scrooge (pause): We’re buying out Fezziwig.
Dick: What!
Apprentice Scrooge: Indeed. We’ve found the capital and, ah, we, ah, I found some
discrepancies in the books here so... We’ve talked with a lawyer and...
Dick: You what! You’re pushing out Mrs. Fezziwig? You’re stabbing the woman who’s treated
you like her own son in the back? I’m, I’m...
Apprentice Scrooge: Now, now Dick! Don’t get sentimental. This is business! And we are
waiting until after Christmas to make our move!
Dick: Move? You’ve just plunged into the abyss Ebenezer Scrooge!
Apprentice Scrooge: Hhmmph. A year from now I’ll have it all. And if you don’t join us what’ll
you have?
Dick: I’ll have my scruples Ebenezer Scrooge.
Apprentice Scrooge: Keep your scruples and have another pint Dick. It’s not the end of the
world.
Dick: No. It may not be the end of the world, but it is the end of our friendship. Goodnight and
goodbye to you Ebenezer Scrooge!
Apprentice Scrooge: Dick! Dick! Don’t be silly. We’ll find a place for you in our organization.
Dick: I want no part of your sleazy plan Ebenezer. You and Jacob Marley. A fine “Merry
Christmas” to both of you!
Apprentice Scrooge: Dick! (Dick is going out the door and off Stage Left) Oh! And A Merry
Christmas to you too you, you.... Humbug! (muttering, pacing, looking around the office) I
certainly don’t mind sleeping in such a comfortable old office. It’s going to be mine, all mine,
soon enough. (exits Stage Right)
23
A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Act ll Scene 5
Ghost Past: My time grows short. We must proceed! (lights flicker)
Scrooge: What do you mean: your time grows short?
Ghost Past: I’ve only a brief time to show you some of the high, and low, lights of your past
Ebenezer Scrooge.
Scrooge: Oh! I think I’ve seen enough for one night. Could we leave now? I’ve learned so much
already good Spirit.
Ghost Past: Ebenezer Scrooge: Don’t try pulling the wool over my eyes! Behold! A year later
and you’re once again turning away from those who loved you most, to pursue your own
wretched dreams....
(a better dressed, slightly older Scrooge enters office followed by Stella, in tears.)
Stella: I just don’t matter to you. Another love has replaced me. And if it cheers and comforts
you in the future, I’ve no reason to be sad.
20s Scrooge (scornfully): What do you mean you daft girl? What other love has replaced you?
Stella: A shiny golden one.
20s Scrooge: A golden one? (pause, thinking) Ah! Well, that’s the way of the world! Yet the
world loves to condemn the pursuit of wealth! “A pound in the pocket is the best friend a man
can have,” as Jacob says.
Stella: These days you seek only the approval of the upper classes and young urban
professionals. What happened to your dreams Eb! They’ve disappeared one by one. Now only
your lust for wealth remains. Isn’t that true?
20s Scrooge: What of it? I’ve grown much wiser this past year. What of it? I feel the same about
you. (she shakes her head) Yes, I do!
Stella: Wiser! Hah! Or as you would say: Humbug! We became engaged when we were both
poor. We were happy enough. We had dreams, we had plans. Remember our dreams? That we’d
do work we loved and scrimp and save for our future. Step by step. You were going to slowly
grow your business. You were eager to hire and train workers. You told me the responsibility of
employers was to give a leg up to those who needed it. But you changed. You and your partner
Jacob have other dreams, much grander schemes.
20s Scrooge: My dreams haven’t changed! I was so much younger then. Ignorant of the ways of
the world. My dreams were immature. And so were yours! I now see what we need to do to
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
attain our dreams. You cling to the dreams of a naive child. You will see Stella. Marry me and we
will be the envy of all our friends.
Stella: Friends? You have two friends Ebenezer. Jacob and his famous “pound in the pocket”.
You know that you’re no longer the same! We were once happy and of one heart. Now we’re
wretched and of two hearts. I, I’ve thought about it and... (pause) I release you from our
engagement.
20s Scrooge (astonished): Have I ever asked to be freed from our engagement?
Stella: In words? No, you never have. Never.
20s Scrooge: How, then?
Stella: You’ve changed. Or I’ve been hoodwinked. I don’t really know Eb. You no longer value
my love. (pause) If we’d just met, would you ask me out tonight? To go out on the town; hear a
new band and have a pint? To eat at a chippy and go to a poetry reading? (pause) Ah... no! Now
that life sickens you.
20s Scrooge: You don’t understand. I’ve always wanted you. To be by my side.
Stella: Yes, Eb. Now I finally understand. You always desired a trophy wife, and you’d do
anything, act any which way, to get one. You’re more cynical than I ever realized. Don’t you
think that you’d live to regret our marriage? I think so. I set you free. And myself...
20s Scrooge: I’m the same man Stella. Nothing has changed. (pause) OK. Maybe I spend more
evenings at the office. I need to devote time to the business Stella. Sometimes sacrifices have to
be made. But you! No. I don’t want to sacrifice you. I want you beside me, beautiful Stella! The
successful businessman’s beautiful wife! You and I. And a Silver Ghost Rolls Royce. And a
grand Kensington manor. With beautiful objects filling our beautiful home. (pause) You can’t
leave me Stella. You can’t. I need you. I need you by my side. For all the world to see.
Stella: Soon you’ll forget about our marriage as an unprofitable dream. From which you, luckily,
awoke. Oh Eb! May you be happy forever in whatever you choose to do! Whatever dream you
pursue.
(Stella leaves the office and exits Stage Left.)
Scrooge: Stella! Stella! Oh, Stella, we would have been the perfect couple. Soon, very soon, I’ll
be rich and successful. You would never have to work. You could be at home. Tending our
beautiful children. Directing the house staff. Planning teas and dinner parties. Who will do that
for me now? Oh, Stella. I still have dreams. Wonderful, shiny, golden dreams.
(After a pensive moment 20s Scrooge disappears back into the office and exits Stage Right.)
Scrooge: Spirit! I don’t want to see anymore! Take me home. Why do you torture me?
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Ghost Past: I am not torturing you Ebenezer Scrooge. I am showing you only what you have
created. This is your life. Not a dream. But the reality of your very own life.
Scrooge: My life? Yes. It is my life. (pause) I did have dreams. Dreams I needed to fulfill. Some
people just didn’t understand....my dreams. We could have been happy. She just didn’t
understand that to be happy you need money. To be free you need money.
Ghost Past: Really? Do you really believe that Ebenezer Scrooge? Your niece Freda appears to
be quite happy. And despite her modest income she gives the impression of being free. Even your
hard-working yet nearly impoverished chief clerk, Roberta Cratchit, is happier than you are.
Despite her husband being out of work and having an ill child she manages to put on a brave face
and welcomes your clients with a smile and a laugh while you, who benefits so from her labours,
scowls and has nothing good to say about anyone. Oh, Ebenezer, what will we do with you?
(pause) One shadow more!
Scrooge: No! No more. I don’t want to see it. Show me no more!
(Lights down. Office cleared. Sounds of Christmas merriment: the laughter of many
children)
Act ll Scene 6
(Lights up. An older Stella and her husband enter from Stage Left.)
Husband; Stella, I saw an old friend of yours this afternoon.
Stella: Who?
Husband: Guess!
Stella: How can I? (pause, thinking) Hah! I think I know. Only one person could provoke that
wickedest smile of yours. Ebenezer Scrooge!?
Husband: Yes, Scrooge it was! I walked past his office window. The lights were still on, even
this late on Christmas Eve. I couldn’t help seeing him there, hovering. Meanwhile his partner,
Jacob Marley, lay dying while Scrooge worked alone. Quite alone. In his own world.
Stella: He’s happy in his own world. I believe he is you know. Well, what for Ebenezer passes
for happiness anyways. (pause) Enough of Ebenezer Scrooge. It’s Christmas Eve and I won’t be
raking up sour memories from my youth! Let’s take the children for a walk in Kensington Park
and feed the birds. Then let’s go look at the lights. I do not want to think of Ebenezer Scrooge.
Much less see him. (pause) Still, it’s ironic.
Husband: How’s that Stell?
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Stella: That we live in Kensington, where he once fervently dreamed of living. And Ebenezer
ended up living just down the block from his office because he couldn’t stand being too far from
work. He never even has to take a cab, much less buy a Jaguar. He never leaves The City. All that
money and he is stuck in The Square Mile. Poor Ebenezer. Such a sad specimen. (pause)
Enough! Let’s bundle up the children and enjoy the evening. (both exit Stage Right)
Scrooge: Spirit! Take me from this place.
Ghost Past: I told you these were shadows of past events, adrift in time. They are what they are.
Do not blame me!
Scrooge: Take me away! I can’t stand it! (looks directly at Ghost) Leave me alone! Take me
back home. Go away!
Ghost Past: I will leave you Ebenezer Scrooge. But the memories of what you have seen will
stay with you forever! (Ghost swirls and spins across the stage. Lights flicker and flash. Bells
toll in the distance. The Ghost spins off Stage Left. Scrooge stands alone. Bells become
louder. Lights down.)
Act llI Scene 1
(Lights come up to half. Scrooge’s bedroom. Scrooge lies in bed tossing and turning. The
bell tolls ‘One’. Scrooge jerks up. Turns on bedside lamp. Lights up. He frantically looks
around him, under the bed and out the window. Gradually he calms. He strokes his chin
and looks thoughtful, regaining his inner strength. He strides to his bedroom door and
flings it open. He looks upstage as if checking the hallway. Ghost Present comes through
window, behind him, into his bedroom.)
Ghost Present: Come back. Come back! and know me better, man! (Scrooge, visibly deflated,
turns back and re-enters his bedroom) I am the Ghost of Christmas Present. Look upon me!
(Scrooge approaches the Ghost, cowering but also gazing at the Ghost’s elaborate costume.)
You have never seen the like of me before!
Scrooge: Never. Not even in the ‘60s did I see such an outfit.
Ghost Present: But you’ve walked with my elder brother, born long before myself?
Scrooge (muttering): Yes, yes. What an incredible family to provide for! (Ghost appears to
grow taller. Scrooge cringes.) Spirit, I’m yours. Take me wherever. I was forced to go last night,
and learned lessons. Tonight, if you have anything at all to teach me, I’m sure I’ll profit by it.
Yes, profit...
Ghost Present: Touch my robe!
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
(Lights flicker and flash. Street sounds: traffic, people. Bedroom fixtures disappear as
people pass by, some holding trays of food. The Ghost twirls, sprinkling glitter on people
and trays with wand. Meanwhile the cries of “Merry Christmas” etc. rise and fall in the
wind.)
Scrooge: Is that a particular flavour you sprinkle from your wand?
Ghost Present: It is. My own creation.
Scrooge: Do you apply it to every dinner today?
Ghost Present: To all kindly given. To a poor one most.
Scrooge: Why to a poor one most?
Ghost Present: Because it needs the extra richness most. It’s plenty of love and zest but lacks in
richness.
Scrooge (pause, thinking; wily look): Spirit? Why do you, of all the spirits, seek to dampen
people’s innocent enjoyment at this time of the year?
Ghost Present: I?! What’s this Scrooge? You’re a sly trickster fox.
Scrooge: Don’t you try to close businesses on holidays? It’s a ‘Day of Worship’. It comes to the
same thing.
Ghost Present: I seek to close businesses?
Scrooge: Forgive me if I’m wrong. It’s done in your name, or at least in the name of other
Christmas style spirits.
Ghost Present: Ah, yes. There are people who claim to know us, and who do deeds of passion,
pride, ill-will, hatred, envy, bigotry and selfishness in the name of one spirit or another. They
really are strange to us spirits. It’s as if we never existed. Blame their wrongdoings on them, not
on us. Fortunately there are many who at least have an inkling of the inconceivable universe
we’re all part of.
Scrooge (thinking): Yes. I think I understand what you’re saying. Hmmm...
Ghost Present: Good! Let us walk.
Act llI Scene 2
(Scrooge and Ghost Present wander around the stage. As they do lights flicker/flash. A table
is placed near Centre Stage. George Cratchit enters from Stage Right and spreads cloth on
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
table. Peter enters behind him and places a few bowls of food on table, poking and stirring
the contents. Two youngest Cratchits come on-stage laughing and running about. Ghost
Present sprinkles glitter liberally about the room. Lights up.)
Young Cratchit 1 (voices overlapping): Did you smell all that food cooking when we were
playing on the street. I saw a man with the hugest turkey!
Young Cratchit 2: There are so many people walking and driving and everywhere. And all the
presents they’ve bought!
George Cratchit: Where’s your lovely mother? And your brother, Tiny Tim? And Martha? She
was not a half-an-hour late last Christmas Day!
Martha (entering Stage L): Here I am, father!
Young Cratchit 1: Here’s Martha, father!
Young Cratchit 2: Wicked! There’s such a big goose for dinner, Martha!
George Cratchit: You’re very late today of all days, Martha love.
Martha: We’d a lot of work to finish up last night and had to clear away this morning, dad.
George Cratchit: Well! Imagine so much work on Christmas Eve. Sounds like the railways!
Never mind. You’re here now. Sit down by the heater, Martha, and warm up.
Young Cratchit 1: No, no! There’s mother coming!
Young Cratchit 2: Hide, Martha, hide!
(Bobbie Cratchit enters Stage Left, with Tiny Tim, clutching his crutches, by her side.)
Bobbie Cratchit: Hello George. Children! (looks around) Why, where’s our Martha?
George Cratchit: Not coming I suppose.
Bobbie Cratchit (visibly disappointed): Not coming! Not coming on Christmas Day!
(Martha runs out and hugs her mother. Everybody laughs at the trick played on Bobbie.
Tiny Tim hobbles off to his room, Stage Right, with his younger brother and sister. Bobbie
stands next to George, sampling some of the food.)
George Cratchit: Hey, hey! Hands off the food! Still don’t trust my cooking do you?
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Bobbie Cratchit: Of course I do George. You’re a fine cook. (winks at children) And you’re
getting better all the time. Haven’t poisoned any of us since... hmm... last week. Has he
children? (all laugh) Peter? Would you go fetch the goose from the oven?
Martha: I’ll help you Peter. (Peter and Martha exit, leaving George and Bobbie to talk.)
George Cratchit: And how did little Tim behave?
Bobbie Cratchit: Good as gold. He does get thoughtful, sitting by himself so much. He thinks
the strangest things ever. Coming home he told me that he wished that people who see him,
especially on Christmas Day, might think about those less fortunate than themselves, and be
more charitable because of it. But you know? I believe he may be getting healthier! He walked a
ways without his crutches today. And he is certainly in good spirits. (Tiny Tim with brother
and sister return. Peter and Martha come back with the goose. Everybody ‘ohs’ and ‘ahs’
over the size of the goose, even though it’s not very big. The goose is placed on the table
with the other dishes and they all sit down to eat.) A Merry Christmas to us all, my wonderful
family! We are blessed by good fortune! (everybody echoes the “Merry Christmas”.)
Tiny Tim: Peace and blessings to us all, each and every one!
Scrooge: Spirit, tell me if Tiny Tim will live?
Ghost Present: Hmmm.... (squinting off) I vaguely see a vacant seat, in the corner. And a crutch
without an owner, carefully preserved, surrounded by photos and flowers. If these shadows
remain unaltered by the Future, the child will die.
Scrooge: No, no! Oh, no, kind Spirit! Say he will live!
Ghost Present: If these shadows remain unchanged by the Future, no one, not even we spirits,
will find him here. What of it? If he should die, he had better get on with it, and decrease the
surplus population. (Scrooge hangs his head.) Who shall live, who shall die? It may be that you
are more worthless and less fit to live than millions like this child. However, that is fate. Who are
we to pronounce who shall live and who shall die? (Scrooge raises his head as he hears his
name.)
Bobbie Cratchit: To Mr. Scrooge! Here’s to Mr. Scrooge, the Founder of the Feast!
George Cratchit (aghast): The Founder of the Feast indeed! I wish I had him here. I’d give him
a piece of my mind to feast upon. I hope he’d have a good appetite for it.
Bobbie Cratchit: George! The children! It’s Christmas Day.
George Cratchit: OK. Yes. On Christmas Day one should drink to the health of such a stingy,
tight, unfeeling man as Mr. Scrooge. (Bobbie gives him a look of reprimand) You know he is,
Roberta! Nobody knows it better than you do, poor Bobbie! What you put up with with that
man...
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Bobbie Cratchit: My dear, it’s Christmas Day.
George Cratchit: I’ll drink to his health for your sake and the day’s, not for his. Here’s to Mr.
Ebenezer Scrooge! Long life to him! A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! I’ve no doubt
he’ll be very merry and very happy! (everybody toasts and drinks, but with no enthusiasm.
Scrooge turns his head, ashamed.) Oh, Bobbie, why did you have to mention that man’s name
at the Christmas table? Times are bad enough...
Bobbie Cratchit (breaking in): I do have a bit of good news. I heard of a position suitable for
our Peter.
George Cratchit: I trust it’s not a position with Marley and Scrooge! Though times are tough I
won’t have our son working there. I’ll get called back to the railway. Times will get better. You’ll
see.
Bobbie Cratchit: It’ll all be fine love. This is a wonderful meal George. (to Peter) Pass the
gravy please. No, the position is not with Scrooge. You know why I stay there. However, as I
said, there’s a good chance of a position for our Peter with a more modern, and ethical, firm.
Peter: Where Mom? How did you hear about it?
Bobbie Cratchit (laughing): Well, it’s a funny thing. A very smart looking older businessman
came to the office this morning. He came by to deliver a Christmas card to Mr. Scrooge in
person. It seemed an odd thing. Mr. Scrooge was obviously embarrassed to see the man. I’ve
never seen him so agitated. None of his usual sarcasm or black humour. He even seemed smaller
and more hunched over than ever.
George Cratchit: Ah, to see Scrooge embarrassed. Hah! I’d love to have been there to see that.
And why was Mr. Scrooge so mortified?
Bobbie Cratchit: Mr. Scrooge knew him, as he called him by his first name: Dick. Although he
introduced himself to me as Mr. Wilkins when he came in. I realized I’ve seen his name in the
Economist. Why he’d visit Mr. Scrooge was beyond me, as he’s reknown for his support of
micro co-ops and numerous charities. He’ll give loans when none of the big banks will. And
certainly not Mr. Scrooge.
George Cratchit: The polar opposite of our Mr. Scrooge.
Bobbie Cratchit: Exactly! After wishing Mr. Scrooge a Very Merry Christmas and enquiring
after his business Mr. Wilkins stopped to wish me a Merry Christmas on his way out. I could see
that Mr. Scrooge was upset that I might be wasting time but I thought it best to be polite. Mr.
Wilkins asked how long I had worked for Mr. Scrooge and then congratulated Mr. Scrooge on
hiring a woman. Mr. Scrooge didn’t bother mentioning that he’d only hired me because I
received a lower wage than any equally qualified man. But I think Mr. Wilkins knew that. I think
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
he knew a lot about Mr. Scrooge and Mr. Scrooge’s business and that is why Mr. Scrooge was so
embarrassed.
George Cratchit: Very interesting. But Bobbie.... our Peter? How does he come into this story?
Bobbie Cratchit: Oh, sorry. I was so taken with Mr. Wilkins. Such a nice man. Where was I?
Oh, yes.... Mr. Wilkins inquired if I was single. I said that I wasn’t and then he asked what you
did George. So I was telling him quickly about the railway and your being laid-off for so long...
I’m afraid I might have blushed and stuttered a bit George.
George Cratchit: What? Are you ashamed of me? That I’m on the dole? That you’re
supporting...
Bobbie Cratchit (cutting hime off): No. I’m not ashamed of you George! It was because of the
situation I was in. I was actually having a conversation during business hours and Mr. Scrooge
was not bellowing that I return to work. As I was saying: I was telling Mr. Wilkins that you were
laid-off from British Rail. Mr. Scrooge, naturally, piped up and said you were on the dole and
positively leered. Mr. Wilkins paid him no mind though.
George Cratchit (laughing): The nerve of Scrooge!
Bobbie Cratchit: Mr. Wilkins asked if we’d children. I told him all about our lovely children,
how old they are and what good levels they’ve achieved at school. Mr. Scrooge was positively
fidgeting by now. When I mentioned that our Peter was graduating this Spring Mr. Wilkins asked
if he might like a good job in the City? He gave me his card and said that Peter should go see
him in the new year. It was so funny. I shouldn’t laugh but Mr. Scrooge’s mouth just hung open.
Mr. Wilkins then wished me all the best and left without another word to Mr. Scrooge.
Unfortunately Mr. Scrooge was in a foul mood for the rest of the day. He was even more cruel
than usual to his niece Freda.
George Cratchit: Well, well. Some good will come from the offices of Marley and Scrooge yet.
Even if Mr. Scrooge doesn’t like it. What do you think Peter?
Peter: I’ve heard of Richard Wilkins. He rocks! I’d love to work there. Although I suppose I
shouldn’t get my hopes up. But I’ll certainly go see him.
George Cratchit: A toast to Mr. Wilkins! Cheers! And another to Peter and his future prospects!
(all toast enthusiastically)
Bobbie Cratchit: And Martha? How are things in the rag trade?
Martha: I had to work late again last night. It really is unfair that we interns get the minimum
wage but the maximum hours.
George Cratchit: I know Martha love, but it is a job in the fashion industry and that’s what you
wanted.
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Martha: I know Dad. And I am genuinely happy at my work. But it was Christmas Eve and I
wanted to be here with you like always.
George Cratchit: Oh, well... Your mother was home late of course...
Martha: That horrible Mr. Scrooge!
George Cratchit: Now kiddo, let’s not get worked up on Christmas Day. Perhaps it’s best we not
talk of work at all.
Bobbie Cratchit: Your father’s right. Less talk, more eating! Anybody for more fizzy water?
(Happy babbling as the lights flash up/down. The Cratchits and their feast all disappear, to
be replaced by Scrooge’s niece Freda and his wife with more food on their table.)
Act llI Scene 3
Freda (laughing heartily): Ha, ha, ha....He said that Christmas was a humbug, the old grouch!
He believed it too!
Lucy: Shame on him, Freda!
Freda: He’s a funny old fellow. True, he’s not very pleasant, however, his attitudes bring their
own punishment, and I’ve nothing to say against him.
Lucy: And I’m sure he’s very rich, Freda. At least, you always tell me so. All these years and
I’ve never even seen him in passing.
Freda: What of it! His wealth is of no use to him. He doesn’t do any good with it. He doesn’t
make himself comfortable with it. He hasn’t even the satisfaction of thinking (laughing) that
he’s ever going to benefit us with it.
Lucy: I’m afraid I just have no patience with the old geezer.
Freda: Oh, I have! I am sorry for him; I couldn’t be angry with him if I tried. Who suffers most
from his ill humour! Him, always. For example: he gets it into his head to dislike us, and he
won’t come and dine with us. And the consequence? He misses a wonderful dinner and good
company.
Lucy: Indeed, I think he misses a smashing dinner.
Freda: Well! I’m very glad to hear it. Dinner was a wise investment! (laughs)
Lucy (laughing): Go on with you, Freda.
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Freda: He misses some good times, which could do him no harm. I’m sure he couldn’t find
better companions in his mouldy old office, or his dusty old house. I’ll invite him for Christmas
every year, whether he likes it or not. He may protest against Christmas until he dies, but I’ll
keep going there, every year, and cheerily say “Merry Christmas Uncle Scrooge! How are you?”
Even if it only encourages him to give his poor clerk a few extra pounds, that’s something. I
think I shook him yesterday. (pause) He has given us plenty of merriment and it would be
ungrateful not to drink his health. Here... a glass of mulled wine. I say, “To Uncle Scrooge! A
Very Merry Christmas! Cheers!”
Lucy: Well! To Uncle Scrooge! (they drink)
Freda: A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to the old boy, wherever he is, whatever he is
doing! He can’t take Christmas from me and may he have one, nevertheless. To Uncle Scrooge!
(door bell rings)
Lucy: That must be Carol and Judy! (they both rise from the table)
Freda: What fun! Now if Uncle Scrooge was here we’d have a riot!
Lucy (laughing): Ha ha! Right! You may be getting somewhere with breaking down his
resistance to the ancient traditions of Christmas but good luck with introducing him to our
friends.
Freda: Oh, I don’t know. Mother once hinted that Uncle Scrooge may have been a bit wild in the
Swinging Sixties.
(As Freda and Lucy exit to answer door the lights flash down/up several times. As lights go
down two small children scamper under the Ghost’s robes.)
Act llI Scene 4
(When lights go up it appears that Scrooge and Ghost Present are on stage alone. The
sound of moaning wind.)
Ghost Present: My time upon this earth, is very brief. It ends tonight.
Scrooge: Tonight? Are spirits’ appearances so short? (Scrooge peers closely at Ghost)
Ghost Present: Tonight at midnight. The time is drawing near.
Scrooge: Pardon my asking, (looking intently at the Spirit’s robe) but I see something strange
and, perhaps, not belonging to you. There (points) protruding from your robes. Is that a foot, or a
claw?
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Ghost Present: It might be a claw, but there is flesh upon it. Look here. (opens robes to reveal
two scrawny, badly clothed children.) Oh, Scrooge! Man of this Earth! Look here. Look, look,
down here! Look at these children! (Scrooge, disturbed, leaps back.)
Scrooge: Spirit! Are they yours?
Ghost Present: They are humanity’s. And they cling to me, appealing for help. This boy is
Ignorance. This girl is Want. Beware of them both, and all of their kind. Most of all beware this
boy, for on his brow I see written that which is Doom, unless the writing is erased. Deny it!
Slander those who report it to you! Admit it for your corrupt purposes, and witness the results!
Scrooge: Have they no refuge or place to go?
Ghost Present (mimicking Scrooge’s earlier words): Are there no prisons? Is there no welfare
state? (Scrooge’s mouth hangs open. Bell tolls 12. Lights flash up/down and when they come
back up full the Ghost is gone. Scrooge, alone on stage, is on his knees sobbing. Lights go to
black.)
Act lV Scene 1
(Lights rise slowly. Scrooge is on his knees still. Ghost Future enters slowly. Scrooge is awed
by its black presence.)
Scrooge (tremulous): You are the Ghost of Christmas Yet To Come? (Ghost Future points
onward)
Scrooge: You’re about to show me things that have not happened, but will happen in the future.
Is that right, Spirit? (the Ghost slowly nods and continues pointing)
Scrooge: Ghost of the Future! I fear you. But I know your purpose is to do me good and, as I
hope to live to be a different man, I am prepared to go with you. Please! Speak to me? (Ghost
continues only to point.) OK! Lead on! Lead on! The night is going fast, and it is valuable time
to me, I know. Lead on, Spirit!
(The sounds of the city increase. They come upon the two business people who asked
Scrooge for charity)
Businessman: No. I don’t know much about it, either way. I only know he’s dead.
Businesswoman: When did he die?
Businessman: Last night I believe.
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Businesswoman: Why, what was the matter with him? I thought he’d never actually die. He
appeared to be one of the walking dead.
Businessman: Who knows. A hardened heart? A rigid mind? An accounting virus?
Businesswoman: Speaking of accounting... Who does his money go to?
Businessman: I haven’t heard. Left it to his company, perhaps. He hasn’t left it to me. That’s all
I know. (laughter) It’s likely to be a very cheap funeral. I don’t know anybody who’s going to it.
Should we volunteer? (more laughter)
Businesswoman: I don’t mind going if a lunch is provided. And perhaps some refreshments!
Businessman: Good luck then. More than likely you’ll be asked to pay for the privilege.
Businesswoman: Well, I’m not that interested. After all, I rarely wear black, and I seldom eat
lunch. But I’ll go, if anybody else will. No matter how ill-mannered and devious he might have
been a man deserves some witnesses to his final resting place.
Businessman: Come to think of it, I might have been his only acquaintance. We used to stop and
speak whenever we met. Usually only about stocks, bonds and the gold market but we did speak.
Unlike many hereabouts. (checks watch) Well, I must be off! (they part jovially)
Scrooge: Spirit! Who has died? Why are they so unfeeling, so totally lacking in compassion?
(The Ghost raises its hand again pointing the way. Lights go down.)
Act lV Scene 2
(A bed with a body covered head to foot by a sheet is placed where Scrooge’s bed has
always been. Eerie wind sounds. Spirits rustling around the edges)
Scrooge: Spirit! This is a dark place. If we leave it, I won’t forget its lesson, trust me. Let’s go
somewhere else! Please. Now! (The Ghost beckons Scrooge to go to the body)
Scrooge (cringing): I’d go to it, if I could. But I have not the power, Spirit. I haven’t the legs!
(the Ghost beckons him again) If there is any person in the town, who feels sorrow because of
this man’s death, please show them to me, Spirit, please!
(Lights flicker. Same room, body still on bed. A man and two woman are scrounging about
in the room.)
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Housekeeper: Let the cook be the first! And then myself, the housekeeper, second; and let him,
the undertaker’s man be the third. Look. This here’s a chance! If we haven’t all three met here
we’d missed an opportunity to get some goods off this ol’ bit o’ work!
Cook: What odds then! What odds, Mrs. Dilbert? We’ve all the right to benefit ourselves. He did
certain.
Housekeeper: That’s true, indeed. No man more so.
Undertaker Asst: Don’t stand staring as if you was afraid, woman; who’s the wiser? We’re not
going to be thieving from each other are we?
Cook: Very well, then! That’s enough. Who’s the worse for the loss of a few things like these?
Not a dead man, I suppose.
Housekeeper: No, indeed!
Undertaker Asst: If he wanted to keep ’em after he was dead, the wicked old puss, why wasn’t
he friendly in his lifetime? If he had been, he’d have had somebody to look after him when he
was struck down, instead of lying gasping out his last there, alone all by himself.
Housekeeper: A truer word never spoken. It’s a judgment on him.
Cook: I wish ‘t’were a heavier judgment. It should have been. If only I could have laid my hands
on anything else. Open that bundle, old Joe, and let me know the value of it. Let’s see what we
have there. It’s no sin. Open the bundle, Joe.
Undertaker Asst: His blankets?
Cook: Whose else’s do you think? He isn’t likely to get cold without ’em, I dare say.
Undertaker Asst: I hope he didn’t die of anything catching? Eh?
Housekeeper: Don’t you be afraid of that. I’m not so fond of his company that I’d loiter about
him for such things. Ah! you may look through that shirt till your eyes ache; but you won’t find a
hole in it, nor a threadbare place. It’s the best he had, and a fine one too. They’d have wasted it, if
it hadn’t been for me.
Cook: What do you mean “wasting it”?
Housekeeper: Putting it on him to be buried in, to be sure. Somebody was fool enough to do it,
but I took it off again.
(Joe dumps out a wallet)
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Cook: Ha, ha! This is the end of it, you see! He frightened every one away from him when he
was alive, so’s to profit us when he was dead! (laughs)
Scrooge: I see, I see. The case of this unhappy man might be my own. My life tends that way,
now. The behavior of these servants is criminal! (Ghost looks askance at Scrooge.) It is
criminal I say! To steal from a dead man who cannot defend himself. I would speak for him if I
could!
(Lights down)
Act lV Scene 3
(Bed is replaced by the Cratchit’s kitchen table. Lights up. George Cratchit, Peter and the
two younger children are seated around the table.)
George Cratchit (putting down some photos): The colour hurts my eyes. (Pause. Wipes eyes)
They’re alright now. It makes them weak, staring at those photos, and I won’t show tired, red
eyes to your mother when she comes home. It must be almost time for her to be home.
Peter: Past it rather. But I think she walks a little slower than she used father.
George Cratchit: I remember her walking with (chokes, rcovers) I remember her walking with
Tiny Tim in her arms, very quickly indeed. Your mother’s so strong.
Peter: So do I. I’d often see them when I was on my way home and I would offer to carry Tiny
Tim and mother’d say “No”, she was fine carrying him.
Others (overlapping): Yes. I’d see them too. All time walking home.
George Cratchit: He was very light to carry and his mother loved him so, that it was no trouble,
no trouble. (hears footsteps) Here’s your mother at the door! (Bobbie slowly enters Stage
Right)
Bobbie Cratchit: Hello everyone. Hello, my dear. (she sits at the table and the two youngsters
go either side of her, hugging her. George Cratchit quickly gathers his photos and then
places a cup of tea in front of Bobbie.)
Bobbie Cratchit: Lovely. Lovely. (pause) Thank you George. You would have been so happy to
see how green a place it is. I know you’ll see it often. I promised him that we would walk there
often. My little, little child! (sobbing) My poor little boy.
George Cratchit: There Bobbie. There. There. (pause) You know who I saw today? I saw Freda,
Mr. Scrooge’s niece. And she was a little down you know. So I inquired what had happened to
distress her. And, and she said she was so sorry about Tiny Tim and how hard it must be for you,
for all of us. (pause) Then she gave me her card and said that if she can help us in any way to
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
phone or come by, anytime. You know, it wasn’t so much that she might be able to do anything
for us, but her kindness that was so wonderful. It really seemed as if she had known our Tiny
Tim, and felt our grief with us.
Bobbie Cratchit (regaining herself); Yes, Freda is a good soul. I shouldn’t be surprised if she
might have found a job for you my love. She mentioned that she’s a friend looking for someone
who knows about scheduling and that you might be just the person for the job. And who knows
when the railways will call you back.
George Cratchit: Did you hear that, children?!
Youngest Cratchit 1 (laughing): But then who’ll feed us? Who’ll get us ready for school in the
morning? Who’ll get Peter up and out the door and to work in the morning? (laughter that dies
out)
Peter: Get along with you!
Bobbie Cratchit (smiling but soberly to George): It will be fine. We’ve had worse times
haven’t we? (all nod) But however, and whenever, we part from one another, I am sure none of
us will forget poor Tiny Tim.
Peter and youngsters: We’ll never forget mother! Never.
Bobbie Cratchit: And I know, that when we remember how patient and kind he was, although
he was a little, little child, we will not argue amongst ourselves. He’d like that.
Peter: We’ll never forget his good spirits mother.
Youngest Cratchit 2: We’ll always remember how kind and gentle he was.
Bobbie Cratchit (smiling slightly): That makes me very happy. I’m happy! (they all gather
around Bobbie in a group hug.) Tiny Tim is no longer with us but we’ll look out for one
another. It’s sad that Martha can’t be here with us today. Now she’s a proper job her future looks
bright indeed. Peter, it was good of you to come by today and be with us. You’ve done so well
with Mr. Wilkins. A chance meeting that led to a fine career for you.
Scrooge: Spectre, something tells me that our parting moment is at hand. I know it, but I don’t
know how I know it. Tell me who that was we saw lying dead? (The Ghost points off. He and
Scrooge leave the Cratchits. The lights go down. The Cratchits leave.)
Act lV Scene 4
Lights come up but are dim. Wind sounds. Scrooge and the Ghost are upstage. Two
gravestones, one marked Jacob Marley, the other Ebenezer Scrooge are downstage, facing
the audience. The Ghost goes to them and points down at them.)
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Scrooge (not yet seeing his name): Before I look answer me one question. Are these visions
things that have to be, or are they things that only might be? (Ghost continues to point down) If
people continue, unchanging, that leads to one end. But if they change their actions, the end
results will change. Isn’t that how it works? Say it’s that way with what you show me! (Ghost
indicates Scrooge read the gravestone. Scrooge approaches it and reads his own name upon
it. He grabs his chest and gasps. Falls to his knees.)
Scrooge: That was me on the bed? (Ghost points from Scrooge to the grave, back and forth.)
No, Spirit! Oh no, no! Spirit! (pause. Shaking voice) Listen to me! I am not the man I was. I
will not be the man that causes all this to happen. Why show me this, if I am past hope! (the
Ghost’s hand wavers.)
Scrooge: Good Spirit. Intervene for me, and pity me. Please! Assure me that these events may
change, if I change my life! (Ghost turns and looks directly at Scrooge, its hands spread
wide.) I will honour Christmas, in my heart, and try to keep its spirit all year. I will live in the
Past, the Present, and the Future. The Spirits of all Three will work within me. I will not shut out
the lessons that they teach. Oh, tell me I may erase the writing on this stone! (Scrooge grasps
the Spirit’s hand and a tug-of-war ensues. Finally the Ghost flings Scrooge off. Lights flash
up/down repeatedly then go down.)
Act V Scene 1
(Scrooges’s bed, door, window, table and lamp on stage. When lights come up Scrooge is in
his bed tossing and turning, moaning.)
Scrooge: Please! Please! I will change! I will be good! I will do good! I will honour Christmas!
(flings covers aside and sees he’s in his room.) Here... I am, here in my room! The shadows,
the Ghosts, they’re gone. They’re gone! And I’ll keep them away! (Scrooge leaps out of bed.) I
don’t know what to do! (laughing and crying in the same breath. Dancing around room.) I’m
as light as a feather, I’m as happy as, as a (loss for words), I’m as carefree as a schoolboy. I’m as
giddy as a drunk. A Merry Christmas to everybody! A Happy New Year to all the world! Hallo
everyone! Whoiee! Hallo! (pause) There’s the window, where the Ghost of Jacob Marley
entered and I saw the wandering Spirits!! There’s the door where the Ghost of Christmas Present
entered! There’s my bed where Jacob sat! It’s all true, it all happened. Ha ha ha! (laughs and
laughs and laughs) I don’t know what day of the week it is! I don’t know how long I’ve been
with the Spirits. I don’t know anything. I’m quite a baby. Never mind. I don’t care. I’d rather be a
baby. Hallo! Whoopie!
(From outdoors bells ring and ring. Scrooge goes to window, flings it open. Leans out.)
Scrooge: Hallo there! You! Yes, you young man! What day is it?
Boy from off-stage: What? What’s that?
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Scrooge: What day is it, my fine young fellow?
Boy from off-stage: Today! Why, it’s Christmas Day!
Scrooge (to room): It’s Christmas Day. I haven’t missed it. The Spirits have done it all in one
night. They can do anything they like. Of course they can. Of course they can. (out the window)
Hallo, my fine fellow!
Boy from off-stage: Yes! Hallo!
Scrooge: Do you know the butcher’s shop, in the next street, at the corner?
Boy from off-stage: Yes! I sure do.
Scrooge (to room): An intelligent boy! A remarkable boy! (out window) Do you know if
they’ve sold the huge turkey that was hanging up there? Not a little turkey: the biggest one?
Boy from off-stage: What, the one as big as me?
Scrooge (to room): What a delightful boy! It’s such a pleasure to talk to him. (out window) Yes,
my young friend!
Boy from off-stage: It’s still there in’it?
Scrooge: Is it? Go and fetch it for me.
Boy from off-stage: Scammer! You ol’ geezer you! Why, you’re Mr. Scrooge you are. I’ve heard
of you...
Scrooge (cuts him off): No, no. It’s no scam. I am in earnest. Go and tell ’em to bring it here, to
Ebenezer Scrooge’s, and I’ll give them the directions where to take it. Wait a moment. (runs to
bedside table and gets coin) Here’s a pound. Come back with the turkey in less than five
minutes and I’ll give you five more pounds!
Boy from off-stage: Yes sir Mr. Scrooge! I’ll be back in a jiff.
Scrooge (to self): I’ll send it over to Roberta Cratchit’s! (laughing) She won’t know who sent it.
It’s twice the size of Tiny Tim. Sending it to Bobbie’s (smiles as he says her familiar name)
will be such a prank! (prepares to leave) Money money money. Money for the turkey. Money
for gifts. Money money money to give to charities. Money money money. (Pulls money from
under the mattress, from his table. He goes out the door. His voice is heard off-stage) To one
and all a Merry Christmas!
(lights down)
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Act V Scene 2
(Lights up. Clock strikes nine. Scrooge’s office. Scrooge is alone, alternating between glee
and trying to look stern. Scrooge goes to door and looks out. Leaves door open. Soon
Bobbie rushes in, quickly sits at desk and starts working, head down.)
Scrooge (growls): Hallo! What do you mean by coming here at this time of day?
Bobbie Cratchit: I am very sorry, sir. I am late. We had...
Scrooge (cutting her off): You are? Yes. I think you are. Step this way please Mrs. Cratchit!
Bobbie Cratchit (hesitantly approaching): It’s only once a year, sir. It won’t happen again. I
was making rather merry yesterday, sir.
Scrooge (sternly): Now, I’ll tell you what, Roberta Cratchit, I am not going to stand this sort of
thing any longer. And therefore (pokes Bobbie on shoulder) I am about to raise your salary!
(Bobbie, who was about to defend herself stops, mid-action) Ha ha! What do you think of that
Ms. Cratchit? (seeing Bobbie is still stunned Scrooge embraces her) A Merry Christmas,
Roberta! (huge smile) A Merrier Christmas, Roberta, my good lady, than I have given you for
many a year! I’ll raise your salary. Why, I’ll make the raise retroactive. And we’ll discuss your
future prospects this very morning, over brunch and a pint, or two, or three at the local pub
Roberta! We’re finished here for the day. And turn up the those heaters before we go out!
(Bobbie is struck dumb. Scrooge turns up heaters, clasps Bobbie’s arm and steers her out
the door) And what have you planned for this evening. How is that young boy of yours? Tiny
Tim is it? (talking as they exit) And George? Still out of work is he? Sad... sad... the state of the
railways.
(Lights down)
Act V Scene 3
(Lights up. Scrooge and Bobbie walking on the street.)
Scrooge: And how was your Christmas Day Roberta?
Bobbie Cratchit: Truly marvelous Mr. Scrooge. All my lovely family gathered early in the day
and just after opening presents we were about to put our goose in the oven when the hugest
turkey was delivered.
Scrooge: You don’t say. I’m amazed you could afford a huge turkey on the meagre salary I was
paying you. Oh yes, don’t look so startled Roberta. I’ve not paid you what you’re truly worth.
We’ll soon correct that. Change is afoot Roberta! We shall be great friends. You’ll see.
Bobbie Cratchit: In that case please call me Bobbie rather than Roberta Mr. Scrooge.
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Scrooge: Hmmm, hmmmm.... I shall. And please, you may call me Ebenezer! ‘Scrooge’ sounds
too much like ‘scrounge’ don’t you think Bobbie?
Bobbie Cratchit: Oh, it’s a nice enough name Mr. Scrooge, er, Ebenezer.
Scrooge (spotting Business Man and Woman): Well, look who it is! A belated Merry
Christmas to you my friends!
Business Man: And to you Mr. Scrooge!
Business Woman: Yes indeed Mr. Scrooge. You’re looking very spry and quite the dandy today.
How wonderful it is to see you out of the office. And Ms. Cratchit is it not? Lovely to see you
also.
Bobbie Cratchit: Yes m’am. And how are you both today?
Business Man: Well enough thank you. Survived another holiday season. Although I’m sorry to
say some of poorer folks had a tough time of it in that nasty bit of cold and wet weather on
Christmas Day.
Scrooge: Oh. I’m truly sorry to hear that.
Business Woman: Ahh, well Mr. Scrooge, never too late to make even a small donation to our
fund for the poor.
Scrooge: A small donation you say?
Business Man: It needn’t be very much at all Mr. Scrooge. Every little bit helps you know.
Scrooge: I’m sure it does. The welfare state seems to think it does. (pause) However, I feel...
(whips out cheque book, writes, hands over cheque) that a substantial amount would do far
more. How’s that? Do you think that’s enough to do some good?
Business Woman: Why Mr. Scrooge! Mr. Scrooge, are you certain? So many zeroes...
Scrooge: Yes, I’m quite aware of how many zeroes I wrote my good lady. I’ve spent my life
accumulating sums with more and more zeroes attached. But now I believe it’s high time my
accumulated wealth helped those who suffer so at this time of year. Please, won’t you call my
office on our next business day, sometime in the new year, and we’ll arrange a meeting to
discuss how I might assist your worthy cause?
Business Man: We’d be delighted to do so Mr. Scrooge. This is very generous of you. It will go
a long ways. A very long ways.
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Scrooge: Good. Excellent. I’m very happy to help. Would you care to join Bobbie and I at The
Counting House for brunch and refreshments?
Business Woman: We’d be delighted Mr. Scrooge!
Scrooge: Fantastic! And please, call me Ebenezer.
(Scrooge, Cratchit and Business people start exiting Stage Right)
Business Man to Woman: Ebenezer! Bobbie! He’s a man transformed!
Business Woman: Will wonders never cease?
(All off. Lights down)
Act V Scene 4
(Lights up. All the Cratchit’s except Bobbie gathered around table.)
George Cratchit: Well, I wonder how your mother’s day is going? I’m a bit worried as she was
rather late leaving this morning.
Peter: Don’t worry father. If that grouch Scrooge fires her it may be for the best.
George Cratchit: Don’t be saying that Peter. Things will be fine. Mr. Scrooge may be a grouch
but I don’t think he’s entirely evil. (children look doubtful) Oh, come, come. Cheer up! We had
a fine meal last night courtesy of our mysterious benefactor. And Tiny Tim got that special new
hoodie he’s being wanting for so long.
Martha: One of the benefits of working in the fashion industry Dad. Seconds!
(Bobbie enters, feigning sadness)
George Cratchit: Bobbie! You’re home early. What happened. Oh, no... (general muttering
from children)
Bobbie Cratchit: I was a bit late for work this morning. And Mr. Scrooge was there before me.
Peter (approaching Bobbie): Oh Mother! (pause. sniffing.) Have you been drinking!?
George Cratchit: What! What happened? You rarely take a drink. Bobbie!?
Bobbie Cratchit: Well, I did have a few pints with a friend. (family looking at one another in
shock)
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Martha: Mom!
George Cratchit: Perhaps we should get you some tea dear, or do you want lie down? And... is
this all because of Mr. Scrooge?
Bobbie Cratchit: Mr. Scrooge. Hmmm... Yes. He did not look at all happy when I arrived five
minutes late. He started to severely reprimand me...
George Cratchit: That old scoundrel. I think I might go down there and give him a piece of my
mind. Let’s just see how he reprimands me! How does he think he’s going to replace you? Find
some young intern and.... (children all looking angry, upset, muttering)
Bobbie Cratchit (cuts George off): Oh! That reminds me. My friend. Just a second. (goes back
out)
Martha: Mom! Mom! Dad!?
George Cratchit: Bobbie? Where are you going. (gets up to follow her but she’s back with
Mr. Scrooge and both have huge smiles)
Bobbie Cratchit: George? This is my new friend Ebenezer! May I introduce you to my family
Ebenezer. This is George, and that’s Peter and Martha (cut off by George) and my wee ones...
George Cratchit (stunned): Mr. Scrooge? Ebenezer? What? Bobbie? How? (Scrooge extends
his hand) How do you do Mr. Scrooge.
Scrooge: Pleased to meet you George. A belated Merry Christmas to you! And please, call me
Ebenezer. (turns to children) And to all of you also: A Very Merry Christmas! I apologize for
your mother and I being slightly tipsy. It’s been a long long time since I’ve had a beer. And never
ever with your mother. Eh, Bobbie? That was rare ol’ time at the pub. Did you see the look on
those two’s faces when I gave them the cheque for their charity? (laughs) Oh, I feel so good!
Better than I’ve felt for years. (reflects) Many many years.
Bobbie Cratchit: Oh, Mr. Scrooge! It’s wonderful to see you so happy.
Scrooge: I told you! Call me Ebenezer! Or even Eb! We’re all friends here? And who is this
young man? (squints at Tiny Tim)
George Cratchit: Mr. Scrooge... (dirty look from Scrooge) Ahem, Ebenezer, I’d like you to
meet Tim. Although we usually call him Tiny Tim. A small lad but with the biggest heart of
anyone I know.
Scrooge: Pleased to meet you young man? I hope you and I can become good friends. I would
like you to help me grow a big heart myself. Can you help me with that?
Tiny Tim: Oh yes, Mr. Scrooge! (dirty look from Scrooge) May I call you Uncle Ebenezer?
45
A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Scrooge: I’d be honoured. (sits by Tiny Tim) Bobbie! Introduce me to all your children. What a
handsome bunch they are. We have a lot of catching up to do. (pause) I know so little about you.
I’m afraid I’ve been rather focused on collecting money instead of friends for far too long. But
this Christmas I was shown the errors of my ways. Why we had such a good time at brunch did
we not Bobbie?
Bobbie Cratchit: You were the life of the pub Ebenezer. I’ve never seen such a jolly gathering
of bankers. You’d have thought the market had doubled. And I had no idea you’re such a deft
hand at darts.
Scrooge: Well, yes. Haven’t played since my youth but it came back to me.
Bobbie Cratchit: And it was splendid seeing you and Mr. Wilkins together. Mr. Wilkins hired
our Peter you know.
Scrooge: Yes. He mentioned that. It was jolly being with Dick again. Although his darts game
has not improved over the years.
Martha: Would you like a turkey sandwich Mr., eh... Ebenezer, sir? Ahm...
Scrooge: My dear girl I’d love a turkey sandwich. However, I do have an important dinner
engagement to attend. By the way, would any of you care to join me? It’s a rather special
occasion actually. Gather around and let me tell you about it.... Tiny Tim! Come sit upon my
knee young man!
(As lights go down they are all cheerfully huddled. Table is moved around for next scene)
Act V Scene 5
(Lights up. Freda’s home. Door Stage Right. Table and chairs centre stage. Scrooge knocks
at door. Lucy answers. Freda is behind her, sitting on a chair.)
Lucy (opening door. tentatively): Hello? Yes?
Scrooge (trying not to show joy): Is Freda home?
Lucy: Ah, yes, she’s in the sitting-room. Who should I say... (Scrooge scoots past her, still
suppressing his glee)
Scrooge: Freda!
Freda: Why, Uncle Scrooge! (smiling but unsure) Is that really you Uncle?
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A Contemporary Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Scrooge (laughing): It’s I. Your Uncle Scrooge. Although starting today I’d prefer you call me
Uncle Ebenezer. I thought I might take you up on your invitation to come to dinner. Does the
invitation still stand, Freda? Lucy? (Scrooge hugs Freda, then Lucy. Much laughter)
Freda (overlapping with Lucy): Why of course Uncle Scrooge! er... Uncle Ebenezer.
Lucy: Yes. Please come in. Have a seat. Would you like some mulled wine?
Scrooge: Oh, I’d love some mulled wine. (pause) I haven’t had mulled wine since going to that
café with Stella in the ‘60s. Did I ever tell you about London in the 60s Freda? Such a time...
Freda: No, Uncle Ebenezer, you never have. I’d love to hear about it. Mother told me a little
before she passed away (Scrooge looks briefly worried) but I’d like to hear your stories.
Scrooge: Hmmm.... yes, yes. Time’s were different then. A time for dreaming... (Freda goes
stage right to fetch wine)
Lucy: It’s so wonderful that you came today Uncle Scrooge.
Scrooge: Please my dear. Call me Uncle Ebenezer. Or Uncle Eb! Hmm. Hmm. (Freda hands
him wine)
Freda: We have friends coming today for dinner Uncle. Are you up for company?
Scrooge: Oh yes! I’d love to meet your friends. To see new faces. To hear all about what you and
your friends are up to. Christmas is such a jolly time! Cheers! (all raise glasses) By the way
would it be alright if I brought a few friends myself. (Freda and Lucy exchange glances)
Freda (puzzled): Why certainly Uncle Scrooge, er, Ebenezer. We’d be delighted.
Scrooge: Excellent! Perfect! Just a moment! (goes to door) Bobbie! George! Tiny Tim!
Children! Come on in everyone. You‘ve the food platters Martha and Peter? Got the wine there
George? (the Cratchits all enter) Freda, I believe you know my number one employee, Bobbie
Cratchit? And this is her husband George. (aside to Freda) By the way: I’d like to discuss that
position for George? (Freda nods) And these are their children: Tiny Tim, Martha, Peter and
sorry what were your names? (bends to two youngsters who whisper in his ears) Right!
Lucy (getting lost in the crowd): And I’m Lucy!
Tiny Tim: And I’m Tiny Tim! And I’d like to wish you all A Very Merry Christmas! (turning to
audience) Merry Christmas each and every one of you!
(Musicians come on, followed by rest of cast and then stage crew. Lead the audience in
sing-along carol. All cast onstage. At end line forms to take bows.)
47