In a major win for Northern theatre-goers, The Old Vic has announced that its Tony Award-winning production of A Christmas Carol will make its highly anticipated regional premiere at The Lowry, Salford, this festive season. Running from 11 December 2026 to 10 January 2027, the production marks the first time the show will be staged in the UK outside of London since its world premiere in 2017.
A Global Phenomenon Comes North
Adapted by Jack Thorne (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child) and conceived and directed by Matthew Warchus, this version of the Dickens classic has become a definitive seasonal staple. Having played to nearly one million people across the globe—including successful runs in the U.S. and Australia—the production is simultaneously celebrating its tenth consecutive year at its home in London.
Matthew Warchus, Artistic Director of The Old Vic, expressed his excitement about the expansion: "To now be able to share the joy of this production with the Lowry and its audiences makes this year a truly special one."
A "Landmark Moment" for the Region
For The Lowry, securing the smash-hit production is a significant achievement. Chief Executive Julia Fawcett described the arrival as a "landmark moment for theatre in the region," promising North West audiences an experience that is uniquely "exciting, joyous, and moving."
The production is famous for its immersive atmosphere, filling the auditorium with music, mince pies, and merriment. Beyond the festive cheer, Thorne’s adaptation offers a big-hearted, soulful look at Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey toward redemption as he is visited by four ghosts on a bitter Christmas Eve.
Booking Information
Tickets for the Salford run go on priority sale to Lowry Members today, 30 March, at 2pm, with general booking opening tomorrow, 31 March, at 10am. While the cast is yet to be announced, the creative team remains the powerhouse lineup that propelled the show to Broadway success, including set and costume designer Rob Howell and composer Christopher Nightingale.
With accessible performances—including BSL-interpreted, captioned, and audio-described shows—scheduled throughout the run, A Christmas Carol at The Lowry is set to be the must-see event of the 2026 holiday season.
