Sarah Morrison on the lasting magic of A CHRISTMAS CAROL

As the holiday season approaches, Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre is ready to enchant audiences with A Christmas Carol, Charles Dickens’ enduring tale of redemption and compassion. Directed by Tony Award-winner Matthew Warchus (Matilda the Musical) and adapted by Jack Thorne (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child), this beloved Old Vic production brings Ebenezer Scrooge’s story to life in an immersive experience brimming with music, laughter, and warmth.

Since its publication in 1843, Dickens’ cautionary fable has become a holiday classic, celebrated for its vivid characters, festive setting, and moral insights. At its core, A Christmas Carol tells of Scrooge, a miser whose greed has left him isolated. One Christmas Eve, he is visited by his former business partner and three spirits, who lead him through his past, present, and future, ultimately inspiring his transformation into a compassionate, generous man. The story endures for its universal themes of empathy and redemption, reminding audiences of the power of kindness and connection.

Joining the cast for this limited season is the accomplished Sarah Morrison, taking on the role of Belle, Scrooge’s lost love, a character that reminds audiences of the opportunities missed when one’s heart hardens. Sarah is a celebrated Australian performer known for her versatile and heartfelt portrayals on both stage and screen. Her breakthrough role came as Lisa in the critically acclaimed Ladies in Black, a role she originated in the national tour of the new Australian musical co-produced by the Queensland and Melbourne Theatre Companies. Sarah’s performance earned her accolades and established her as a rising star in Australian theatre. She went on to portray Sophie Sheridan in the Australian tour of Mamma Mia! and starred as Janice (and others) in the beloved musical Come From Away, which took her to stages across Australia and eventually the West End in London. Most recently, she played Ellen in the international tour production of Cameron Mackintosh’s Miss Saigon.

You have an extensive background in musical theatre – how has this influenced your approach to playing Belle?

Sarah: Although this adaptation of A Christmas Carol is considered a play with songs, the experience of performing it feels almost identical to being in a musical. The entire company acts, sings, dances, and plays instruments—some even play multiple instruments. My experience in musical theatre is incredibly beneficial in this show, as it’s truly non-stop.

What aspects of Belle’s character are you most excited to explore and bring to life on stage?

Sarah: I adore Belle’s unwavering hope, even in the face of heartbreak and grief. There’s something truly admirable about her ability to maintain faith in love despite the challenges she faces. Her loyalty is fierce when it comes to those she cares about, which presents an interesting conundrum when trust becomes compromised. Initially, Belle keeps her guard up with Scrooge, but as their connection deepens, she begins to lower her walls, strengthening their bond. This gradual shift is one of my favourite aspects to portray, as it reflects the complexities of love and trust.

Are there specific elements of the character’s journey that resonate with you personally?

Sarah: My hunch is that most of us, myself included, have someone we would love to have just one more conversation with. What would we do with one more chance to lay our eyes on them, to say the things that were never said and ask the questions that remain unanswered? The doorway scene between Belle and Scrooge represents that very opportunity for these characters. Aside from being a beautifully crafted scene, I think it hits viewers the hardest because of what feelings and questions, like the ones above, it may conjure. Playing out this scene can sometimes feel almost cathartic for that reason.

The Old Vic’s version of A Christmas Carol has a unique style and presentation. What’s it like to be part of this production, and how does it differ from other adaptations of the story?

Sarah: This production stands out from others with the same name for several reasons. The way music is woven throughout the show elevates the beloved narrative. One of my favourite aspects of this retelling is the portrayal of the three female-presenting ghosts. It’s fascinating that the two women from Scrooge’s past, Little Fan and Belle, both play pivotal roles in teaching him how to love and be loved; they represent his refuge and the acceptance and warmth he longs for. It feels fitting that the spirits who continue his education are also women, which is a departure from the traditional Dickens classic.

Belle is often remembered as Scrooge’s lost love. How do you see her role in shaping Scrooge’s character and the overall message of the story?

Sarah: I believe Belle never stopped loving Scrooge, and a part of her always will. They fell in love with versions of each other that were full of hope and innocence. Belle is a wonderful judge of character; she genuinely sees the best in people, and perhaps she also brings out the best in them. This of course would mean very little without Scrooge’s love and affection towards Belle. We see this clearly in her relationship. Their meet-cute sparks something within both of them, and she continually challenges him to do better throughout the show.

Can you share any behind-the-scenes moments or memories from the rehearsal process that stand out to you?

Sarah: I will always remember the first year we rehearsed the show and performed the Scrooge and Belle doorway scene in front of the company for the first time after a closed rehearsal. When the scene ended, tissue boxes were being passed around the room. I didn’t fully understand the scene’s impact until I saw the emotions it stirred in others. It’s the part of the play that people mention to me most often after the show.

What do you hope audiences take away from the show, especially during the holiday season?

Sarah: My favourite part of the show is the final song we play as a company with the handbells. Each night, as the music plays, children nestle in tighter to their parents or grandparents, people will reach for their loved ones and hold hands or share a smile with their friends, some will silently cry and some will sing along to the music or both. It’s a very human moment shared by everyone in the audience and on stage. The holiday season can be a challenging time for many and for lots of different reasons but I believe this show can serve as a balm for those who need it most.

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A Christmas Carol will play for a strictly limited festive season at the Comedy Theatre from 22 November 2024.

For tickets and more information, visit christmascarolaustralia.com.au