The Cast of “Scrooge!” Carries on a Tradition of Goodwill

For centuries, the beloved classic A Christmas Carol has inspired selflessness and acts of goodwill during the holiday season. The legacy of Scrooge lives on in countless productions across the country. For performers in the Phoenix area, it has not only brought festive cheer to theatergoers but also helped local families in need.  

Since 2000, Arizona-based casts of this timeless story have channeled the spirit of Scrooge’s redemption into tangible acts of goodwill. It began at Actors Theatre of Phoenix when cast members of A Christmas Carol would donate gifts and cash between their matinee and evening shows. Last year, the cast of Arizona Theatre Company’s Scrooge! took on the mantle of Adopting A Family, ensuring that the spirit of generosity, kindness, and love is carried on. 

On various occasions, Matt August has emphasized how Scrooge is a man who begins his journey isolating himself from those around him then experiences a change of heart that not only affects himself, but the entire community. The realization that we are stronger together than we are apart is a message that resonates with performers and audiences alike. 

This year, as the Scrooge! cast continues in the tradition of adopting a family, the actors experience a transformation of their own—one that echoes the heartwarming conclusion of the story, where Scrooge discovers the joy that comes from helping others. It’s an opportunity to live out the very ideals that make the holiday season so special. And while this Scrooge! cast is involved in leading the effort, individuals from the tradition’s initiation continue to remain involved and make contributions. 

 “Those of us in the company have an opportunity to practice what we’re preaching to the audience” says Brenda Jean Foley (Mrs. Cratchit in ATC’s Scrooge!). 

For the families who benefit from these gifts and essentials, the impact goes far beyond material support. These acts of kindness are reminders that they are seen, cared for, and valued. These gifts are a source of immense relief and hope.  

While Scrooge! and A Christmas Carol are wonderful stories to enjoy simply for their whimsy, they hold much more meaning if we seek it. They act as a call to action for all of us to embrace the values of compassion, charity, and community. We encourage all that read this to seek out ways that they can be of aid to their communities that the powerful change of Scrooge’s heart might be extended to us.  

For more information about how you can Adopt a Family, please visit: https://stvincentdepaul.net/give/adopt-family