Beloved Dickens classic A Christmas Carol returns to The Old Vic this festive season, directed by Matthew Warchus and adapted by Jack Thorne (His Dark Materials, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child).
We caught up with Lauren Jones, who plays Little Fan, to chat about stepping into this heartwarming holiday tradition, the magic behind the production, and the show’s charitable support for Feeding Britain.
A Christmas Carol runs from 12 November 2025 to 10 January 2026 at The Old Vic. Tickets are available now at www.oldvictheatre.com.
You’re starring in A Christmas Carol at The Old Vic – what can you tell us about the show?
It’s a truly magical show. It captures that sense of innocence and joy we often lose as we grow up, or forget in today’s world. Scrooge himself spends much of the story trying to forget his younger self, and the play asks whether we are ever really “past hope.”
What’s so special about this production is that it reignites that spark through an incredible cast and creative team. Every department shines in bringing Dickens’ story to life.
What first attracted you to the role of Little Fan, and how have you approached bringing this character to life?
It was Fan’s strength that drew me in. She manages to stay hopeful and kind in a world full of darkness, and that’s a rare kind of courage. People who can hold onto goodness without letting the world harden them are truly special.
I’ve really dived into the text. My copy of A Christmas Carol is covered in notes, highlights, and sticky tabs (sorry to anyone who keeps their books pristine!). It helps me not only understand Fan, but also the world Dickens created, where every detail has meaning. I even went back and watched GCSE analysis videos (shout out to Mr Bruff!).
A Christmas Carol is such a cherished story — how does this stage version capture its spirit while keeping it fresh for audiences?
That’s all down to the wonder that is Jack Thorne. His adaptation adds so much depth to the story, you honestly can’t tell where Dickens ends and Thorne begins.
In the novel, Scrooge’s transformation happens quite quickly, which made sense at the time since Dickens was writing to urge upper-class Victorians to think about the consequences of ignoring those in need. But on stage, we get to explore Scrooge’s psyche more deeply. It takes real effort, from the ghosts and from the audience, to help him change.
Jack’s version makes us question whether people can truly change. It’s like making a New Year’s resolution: we all say we’ll do better, but can we make it last?
The Old Vic’s production has become a festive tradition for many. What’s it like being part of a show with that legacy?
It’s amazing. To be part of such a beloved story with such a wonderful cast, including people who have returned to the show multiple times, is really special. Hearing their stories about why they keep coming back says everything.
There’s something unmatched about the words, the music, and the joy of this production. It’s the true spirit of Christmas. The season reminds us of who we want to be: kinder, more generous, more connected. We donate more, share meals, give gifts, and celebrate together. Imagine if we carried that feeling all year round.
This year’s production supports Feeding Britain. Why is that partnership significant to you and the company?
It’s one of the many reasons I wanted to be part of this production. This show doesn’t just talk about helping others, it actually does it. We become the changed Scrooge. That’s exactly what Dickens intended.
He originally planned A Christmas Carol as a pamphlet calling for social reform before turning it into a novel. He wanted to inspire change, not just reflection, and this partnership continues that mission.
What would you say to anyone thinking of booking to see A Christmas Carol?
Do it! The show is full of joy, heart, and humanity. It reminds us what it really means to be human and the values we should carry with us beyond Christmas.
It’s perfect for all ages and truly embodies the spirit of the season. Plus the cast and musicians are incredibly talented!
