A CHRISTIAN CHRISTMAS CAROL ACT I Scene 1 SONG : Here We ...

A CHRISTIAN CHRISTMAS CAROL

By Stephen M. Robertson

1 For full sheet music and practice demonstrations for choir, contact [email protected]

A CHRISTIAN CHRISTMAS CAROL

ACT I

Scene 1

SONG: Here We Come A Caroling Medley [Here We Come A Caroling 5 times. Here We Come A Caroling (all) With Greetings Oh so huge, a rousing Christmas Carol about a man named ___. (Scrooge comes out and slams door on “named;” everyone stops except Tiny Tim who looks around momentarily and then starts again and gets to same place when he looks up to see Scrooge standing over him.]

SCROOGE: There'll be no begging or singing in this street, boy.

TIM: I'm not begging, sir, I'm waiting for my father.

SCROOGE: And who is your father?

TIM: Mr. Robert Cratchit, sir.

SCROOGE: Then you'll be waiting for a very long time.

TIM: Oh, I don't mind, sir. I love Christmastime!

SCROOGE: Remember this, boy, Christmas is a humbug! (walks off)

TIM: God bless you, sir! (Choir starts singing softly and grows) [Here we come a caroling with greetings oh so huge, a rousing Christmas carol about a man named Scrooge (discordant). Choir medley turns into Carol of Christmas] FRED: Why, Tiny Tim, what are you doing out by yourself on a cold day like today?

TIM: It’s Christmas, sir!

FRED: Yes, I know.

TIM: Everyone seems so much happier at Christmas.

FRED: I believe you're right, Tim. Well, maybe not quite everyone.

TIM: You mean Mr. Scrooge?

FRED: Yes. My Uncle Scrooge, God save him, he's by far the most cantankerous,

miserable, miserly old man I know. But, you know what? I kind of like him.

TIM: You do?

FRED: Why certainly. He has a lot of spirit to him. Now granted, he uses nearly all

of it to make other's lives as miserable as his own, but can you imagine if he used all

that spirit of his to benefit others?


TIM: [shakes head] No sir, I can't.

FRED: You've got a point, Tiny Tim. I can't either, but I do like to try.

TIM: I'll try then too, sir.

FRED: You're a good man, and for your valiant efforts, Mr. Timothy Cratchit, I shall reward

you with a world class tour of London at Christmastime high upon my shoulders. Do

you accept?

TIM: That would be grand, sir!

FRED: Then, up you go, Tim.

[They begin singing Good Christian Men, Rejoice]

ACT I

Scene 2

[Lights come up on Scrooge's office sketchily conveyed with Scrooge's desk and chair. Also adjacent to this room is a room with Cratchit's desk, a coat rack and a pot belly stove which is grossly underactive. Cratchit, bundled, is busily accounting as lights come up. His hands write quickly and he then blows on them and holds them to the candle. Unsuccessful, he goes to the stove, but finding even less heat there, returns to his candle just in time to hear Scrooge at the door muttering "humbug" at the festivities. Cratchit busies himself.] BOB: Good afternoon, Mr. Scrooge, I trust you had a pleasant lunch. [Scrooge merely

grunts and brushes snow off coat to put on rack.] Sir, has it begun to snow again?

SCROOGE: Cratchit, if you'd spend more time in your bookkeeping and less observing

the weather, you might some day hope to be more than a measly poverty-stricken

clerk.

BOB: Yes, sir, I can see your point. [Sits down to desk].

SCROOGE: Cratchit, see that I have no distractions this afternoon.

BOB: Of course, sir. [Scrooge crosses to his desk where he pulls out a bag of

money and begins piling it on desk as he counts. Nephew enters].

FRED: Merry Christmas, Bob.

BOB: [Rather hushed] And a merry Christmas to you, sir.

FRED: And how's the old geezer this fine day?

BOB: Well, sir, I don't like to speak ill of him, but (hesitantly) I shall say that he is

in his usual humor


FRED: (laughing) Bob, you are indeed a gracious and a kind man. Uncle Scrooge--in his

usual humor! (shivers) Regardless of his usual humor, I shall not cease coming to

visit each Christmas eve with an offer of friendship, nor will I cease hoping and

praying that one day he will come to his senses and accept my invitation to Christmas

dinner. (Turns to find Scrooge staring at him in doorway.) Uncle! Merry Christmas.

SCROOGE: Bah! Humbug!

FRED: Christmas a humbug, Uncle? You don't mean that, I'm certain!

SCROOGE: I DO. BAH. HUMBUG. What reason have you to be merry? You're poor enough.

FRED: Well then, what right have you to be cranky? You're rich enough.

SCROOGE: [Somewhat stumped] BAH. HUMBUG.

FRED: Oh, Uncle, don't be upset with me.

SCROOGE: Upset with you? I live in a WORLD of fools. "Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas."

What's Christmas, but a time for paying bills without money and a time for finding

yourself a year older and significantly deeper in debt? If I had MY way, every idiot

who goes about with a "Merry Christmas" on his lips would be hung from the top of

an evergreen with a stake of holly through his heart!

FRED: Uncle!

SCROOGE: Nephew! Keep Christmas in your own way and let me keep it in mine.

FRED: But YOU don't keep it at all.

SCROOGE: Let me leave it alone, then. I dare say it's never done you or anyone else an inkling of

good.

FRED: Good. [Musing] "Never done an inkling of good" --- [shaking head] and I dare say,

Uncle, that Christmas has supplied me with the only "good" I can claim---in bringing

me a Savior who is all that is good and His goodness not only lights the Christmas

season, but shines all year round in the heart of any who will trust in Him. So, you

see, though it has never added gold or silver to my pocket, it HAS done me more

good than any amount of worldly treasures! [Bob involuntarily applauds, but then

senses error].

SCROOGE: [To Bob] Let me hear another peep from you and you'll keep your Christmas by

losing your position here. [Turning to nephew] You're quite a powerful orator, my

nephew. I wonder that you don't join the clergy!


FRED: Don't be angry, Uncle! Come dine with us tomorrow!

SCROOGE: What do you want from me? My money? You shan't have it!

FRED: I want nothing from you. I ask nothing of you. Why cannot we be friends?

SCROOGE: Friends? [considering] Bah. Humbug. Good afternoon. [with dismissal]

FRED: Well, the invitation remains open as always, Uncle. I shan't be wounded by your

stubbornness. I have come to wish you a Merry Christmas and I intend to do so.

SCROOGE: Good Afternoon!

FRED: A Merry Christmas, Uncle, and a Happy New Year.

SCROOGE: GOOD AFTERNOON!

FRED: [Putting on hat and scarf] And may the Spirit of Christmas and Him for whom it is

named, penetrate even the stony old heart of Uncle Scrooge. [Nephew exits and two

ladies enter as he does.]

SCROOGE: Bah! Humbug! [Pours out money on desk and begins immediately counting again

somewhat vehemently]

CHARITY I: Merry Christmas, sir. We would like to speak to your employer. You see, a few of us

are endeavoring to raise a fund to buy the poor…

BOB: I’m sorry, ladies, but my employer gave me strict orders that he is not to be disturbed

this afternoon…

CHARITY II: But sir, there are men, women and children in the street without…

BOB: You’re wasting your time, ladies. He is not in the habit of giving to charities…

CHARITY I: But it’s Christmas…

BOB: …at Christmas or any other time of the year. Good day, ladies. [gestures to doorway]

CHARITY I: Well, Merry Christmas to you and your family, sir.

CHARITY II: God bless you.

BOB: God…bless…Wait, ladies. It is Christmas…[smiles]…I’ll try. [Cratchit takes a big

breath and heads into Scrooge’s office]

BOB: Pardon me, Sir, I don't mean to disturb you, but

SCROOGE: Then don't.

BOB: But, Sir, there's ladies….

SCROOGE: Send them away.

BOB: But, sir, they're here….


SCROOGE: Cratchit, you are a spineless fool. I don't know why I keep you in my service at all.

Out of my way—[goes to ladies in entrance].

CHARITY I: Have I the pleasure of addressing Mr. Scrooge or Mr. Marley?

SCROOGE: Scrooge. Mr. Marley has been dead seven years. In fact, it is seven years this very

evening.

CHARITY I: Oh, I'm sorry to hear that, Mr. Scrooge.

SCROOGE: You're the only one.

CHARITY I. Well, no doubt, Mr. Marley's generosity is well represented by his surviving

partner.

SCROOGE: In that you are correct. Mr. Marley hadn't an ounce of generosity and I'm

certain that my own generosity would tip the scales at well beneath an ounce.

CHARITY Il: [Undaunted] Surely, Mr. Scrooge at this festive time of the year, you

would be willing to provide some slight comfort for those who are

poor and destitute and lack even the common necessities of life?

SCROOGE (acting surprised) Why, are there no more prisons or work houses still in

operation?

CHARITY I: [Hesitantly] But, of course.

SCROOGE: Then these idle scoundrels should be sent there. I ask nothing of them and demand the

same respect.

CHARITY I: But surely, Mr. Scrooge, you want to give something.

SCROOGE: Nothing!

CHARITY I: Oh, you wish to be anonymous!

SCROOGE: I wish to be left alone. I don't make myself merry at Christmas and I can't

afford to make idle people merry.

CHARITY II. We choose this time of year, sir, because this is the time of year when God

saw our poverty and gave us a Gift which we could never merit. Mr.

Scrooge, unless those of us whom God has blessed with abundance have

pity on those who have none, many will die without meat and drink and

means of warmth.

SCROOGE Then let them die arid decrease the surplus population. Good day, ladies.

I have no more to say to you. [Scrooge walks back into his office.] [Two


ladies leave and Scrooge resumes counting his money while Bob warms hands and

watches clock as lights fades on 4:00 -- clock strikes 6:00 in dark, then light arises on

scene--6:10 and Bob is looking at clock and glancing at Scrooge who finally closes

his book and rises.]

SCROOGE: Go home to your family, Cratchit. You're doing little good staring idly at me.

BOB: Thank you, Sir. [Excitedly putting out light and grabbing hat].

SCROOGE: You'll want all day tomorrow, I suppose?

BOB: If quite convenient, Sir.

SCROOGE: It's not convenient, and it's not fair. Why should I pay for a day of no work? Mighty

poor business manner if you ask me.

BOB: It's only once a year, Sir.

SCROOGE: That doesn't make it right or fair that you should pick my pocket every 25th

of December. Well, take your day off, but be here all the earlier the next

morning.

BOB: Certainly, Sir. Good day and Merry---[reconsidering] Good day, Sir.

[Lights go down on Scrooge scene and up on street scene while stage changes to

bedroom scene.]

[Choir men march forward singing God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen and meet in front of auditorium. Scrooge emerges from office and breaks through them to sing his own version, then exits.] SONG: GOD REST YE MERRY GENTLEMEN [CHOIR]. SCROOGE: I hate to hear them sing of Christ.

I'm sickened by their mirth.

There is no joy found in this world

And where is peace on earth.

They live their lives in dirt and slums,

Yet sing of Jesus' birth;

These tidings just tend to annoy, tend to annoy;

These tidings just tend to annoy!

[Ladies enter from stage and find a male partner while singing Joy to the World. Meanwhile, more ladies enter from rear of auditorium with baskets of snow which they generously toss on the audience until they meet in the front. Scrooge enters in disgust and sings his version with a sneer at the choir that has assembled, then exits.]


SONG: JOY TO THE WORLD [CHOIR].

SCROOGE: Bah to the world and humbug, too.

And plagues on Christmas cheer.

There is no cause to celebrate,

When you're an aging celibate.

I'll joy in my career;

Grow richer every year,

And scoff and curse at all I hear.

[The men immediately separate from ladies and kneel on one knee with hats off as they listen to the ladies singing Hark the Herald Angels Sing. Scrooge appears in balcony with his own version of the song. He then leaves the place none too happily. The ladies sing another verse which then turns back into God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen as men escort ladies out of auditorium.] SONG: HARK, THE HERALD ANGELS SING [CHOIR].

SCROOGE: Hark, I hear those pious fools,

Singing o’er their Christmas yules.

Bringing gifts for those they love,

Joying in a Christ above.

Who loves them in poverty,

Though they have no property?

How I wish they all would CROAK,

Hang them from a giant oak.

Hark, I hear their final words,

Cursing as they're eat of birds.

REPRISE: God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen

ACT I

Scene 3

[Scene of Scrooge's house. In his bedroom there is a brass bed and a window toward audience. In the other room there is a wing back chair and a table with candle on it by fireplace. Scrooge sits by fire eating gruel. A low, slow "SCROOOOOOGE" whispers in air. Scrooge checks around chairs, under bed and checks latch on window before returning to chair where he hears louder "SCROOOOOOOGE.”] SCROOGE: [Loudly] I don't hear anything. [Louder "Scroooooge" and bells ring all around till---]


SCROOGE: All right, I hear something. [Bells cease. Chains begin dragging, getting closer, till

Marley appears in chains and distressed burnt clothes, still smoking as he emerges

from the depths of the fireplace.]

MARLEY: Ebenezer Scrooge.

SCROOGE: Jacob Marley? [Slowly.] It's humbug---I won't believe it.

MARLEY: Why do you doubt your senses?

SCROOGE: Because I must have some disorder of the stomach which causes me to hallucinate.

You're just a fragment of undone potato which remains undigested. You're not

something from the grave, but rather something that was in my gravy.

MARLEY: OOOooh. Ebenezer Scrooooooooge! [Scrooge slides to knees on floor].

SCROOGE: Forgive me. Have mercy.

MARLEY: Do you believe in me or not?

SCROOGE: I do. I must. But, why do you come to haunt me?

MARLEY: Prayers.

SCROOGE: Prayers?

MARLEY: There are those who plead before the Creator of the Universe in your behalf. You

deserve no more than my destiny -- Oooooh, my destinyyyyy -- But, because of these

prayers, you have been given one final chance to escape this torment.

SCROOGE: What torment do you mean? Those chains you wear?

MARLEY: Chains! Oh, Ebenezer. These are merely the chains and burdens of sin that I forged in

life. You now carry a chain even longer than I bear---If only you could see it.

[Ebenezer looks about him]. But, torment!! You could not bear to hear the torment of

hell. Suffice it to say that cursing and wailing is the only language of hell. Hate,

despair and remorse are its only emotions. One’s only wish is death---to end our pain

and mental anguish and yet this is death, Ebenezer, NEVER-ENDING DEATH for

those who reject the Truth.

SCROOGE: What is the Truth, Jacob?

MARLEY: Your heart will tell you if you will but open it. Oh, but Ebenezer, my time with you is

very brief, so listen and listen well. Tonight you will be visited by three spirits.

SCROOGE: Is that the chance and hope you mentioned, Jacob?

MARLEY: It is.


SCROOGE: I -- I think I'd rather not.

MARLEY: Ebenezer!!! Without these visits, you cannot hope to shun the path I tread. Expect the

first when the bell tolls one.

SCROOGE: Couldn't I take them all at once and have it over?

MARLEY: Expect the second at the hour of two and the final at the hour of three. Look to see me

no more. And, for your own sake, remember what has passed between us. I must

return -- Ebenezer!!! [Scrooge stands alone and stunned.]

SCROOGE: Bah--- Bah--- Baah! [Runs to bed; throws covers over head. Lights go down.]

SONG: SILENT NIGHT [CHOIR in candlelight].

[Choir marches in with unlit candles singing Silent Night. As they reach the stage, the choir forms into the outline of a cross. The flame from the candles is passed along until the last candle is lit by the end of the song and the cross can be seen by the audience. Music is played as choir exits.]


ACT II

Scene 1

[In dark, clock strikes 1:00. Scrooge sits bolt upright in bed. Lights gradually come up to one-fourth. Scrooge looks around, then says "Bah." He lies down and lights fade momentarily, then rise to full on appearance of the Spirit of Christmas Past, an angelically bright spirit, dressed in sparkling white, holding a timepiece.] SCROOGE: Are you the spirit whose coming was foretold to me?

PAST: I am the Spirit of Christmas Past.

SCROOGE: Long past?

PAST: Your past.

SCROOGE: Whose past?

PAST: Your past.

SCROOGE: My past?

PAST: Your past.

SCROOGE: You're a woman!

PAST: Very observant of you to notice, Ebenezer.

SCROOGE: You know ME?

PAST: I would hope so---considering that I'm standing here in your bedroom.

SCROOGE: [Covering himself] What is your business with me, spirit?

PAST: Your welfare!

SCROOGE: I would think a night of unbroken rest to be best for my welfare.

PAST: I suspect if you knew what was best for your welfare, I would not need to be here

now.

SCROOGE: But, I remember the past.

PAST: Do you really remember the past, or just those parts you pick out for

yourself? Rise, Ebenezer and walk with me.

SCROOGE: I am merely a mortal, spirit, and cannot go where you bid.

PAST: Bear but a touch of my hand and you shall go with me [takes Scrooge's hand, turns

timepiece over and lights immediately black out.]

ACT II

Scene 2


[Lights come up on a scene with a mother and two children. Scrooge and Past walk barely into

circle of light.]

SCROOGE: My mother -- alive again. [Goes a step forward].

PAST: These are but shadows of the things that have been. They have no consciousness of

us.

SCROOGE: My mother---and look---it's my sister, little Betsy---such a beautiful, sweet child she

was.

BETSY: (Optional line - if Betsy is old enough for a speaking role) Momma, tell Ebenezer and

me the story about the Baby in the manger again.

PAST: Always a caring sister to you she was, with such a large heart!!

SCROOGE: So she had. There's no denying that.

PAST: She died a woman and had as I think children?

SCROOGE: One child.

PAST: Oh, yes---your nephew! How you must cherish that dear boy and try to be friend and

benefactor to him, isn't that right, Ebenezer? [Pause] Awfully quiet, aren't

we---Listen, Ebenezer---your mother is telling a story.

MOTHER: And in the midst of that dark, dark night, those poor lonely shepherds were

startled to see a bright light which lit up the entire countryside around them

as though it were daylight. You can imagine how those shepherds must

have trembled in fear at this miracle.

LITTLE SCROOGE: What was it, Mama? What was it?

MOTHER: Why it was an angel, sent from God Himself with a message.

LITTLE SCROOGE: What kind of message?

MOTHER: That angel announced to those shepherds that a King was born that night and he told

them that they would know Him to be King because He would be in a manger in

swaddling clothes and suddenly, there wasn't merely one angel, but many angels all

praising God together.

SCROOGE: Why do you have me listen to these fairy tales of my youth, spirit?

PAST: Fairy tales, Ebenezer? Your heart is still a stone, I see. Distorting

truth as falsity and falsity as truth. Your pathway tonight will needs be

long and difficult. [Raises arm, turns timepiece and lights black out.]


ACT II

Scene 3

[Scrooge and Past appear at Fezziwig's, an office similar to Scrooge's, but with two

clerk desks and much more brightly lit.]

SCROOGE: Why, it's old Fezziwig's. I was apprenticed here. There I am and young Jacob Marley

and---and---there's old Fezziwig himself. What a stickler he was for giving a man a

day's work for a day's wages. Why, I learned how to run an office from him. [Mrs.

Fezziwig and two girls enter].

SCROOGE: Why, it's ……. [stops abruptly]

PAST: Who is it, Ebenezer?

SCROOGE: It is Belle, my sweetheart of long ago.

PAST: You, Ebenezer, with a sweetheart!

SCROOGE: I had nearly forgotten myself.

MRS. FEZZIWIG: (entering office, box in arm.) Why, Ebenezer and Jake! What are you

boys doing STILL working on Christmas eve?

YOUNG SCROOGE: Oh, we don't mind, Mrs. Fezziwig.

YOUNG MARLEY: Oh, no, it's our pleasure, Mrs. Fezziwig!

MRS. FEZZIWIG: I must say you boys are loyal, but you shan't keep Tyrant Fezziwig out

of the frying pan this time!! Oh, Ebenezer and Jake, let me introduce

you to Belle and Amanda. They are young ladies of the highest moral

fiber and ideals. I have taken it upon myself to find them escorts for

our annual Christmas celebration and I thought you two overworked

young men may know of two healthy lads worthy of this honor.

YOUNG SCROOGE: To be honest, Mrs. Fezziwig, I happen to know a young man who fits the

qualifications perfectly---a Mr. Jake Marley.

YOUNG MARLEY: And I can highly recommend a Mr. Ebenezer Scrooge as a worthy

candidate.

MRS. FEZZIWIG: A splendid idea! I trust you girls find that arrangement agreeable?

AMANDA: Oh, yes, most agreeable.

BELLE: Perfect!

MRS. FEZZIWIG: I'm glad you boys thought of it. Now, close up shop while I have a


word with His Majesty! (enters Fezziwig's office) Mr. Fezziwig!

FEZZIWIG: Oh, my dear, you are just in time. I was just closing up shop! Ebenezer, Jake!

BOTH: (entering) Yes, Sir!

FEZZIWIG: (looks at watch again) Why didn't you boys let me know it was so late

on Christmas eve---but never you mind---close those books, grab

your coats, and meet me and the Mrs. in my office---and be quick!

MRS. FEZZIWIG: Well, I hope you plan to reward your loyal slaves handsomely, my dear.

FEZZIWIG: Apprentices, dear, apprentices! (apprentices enter). Come in!

Come in! Now, my associates, I suppose you know I have had my

most profitable business year to date and I want the two of you to

know that I attribute much of that success to my two very able

apprentices. So, I wanted to thank the both of you with these. That's

for you, Ebenezer. (hands him coin)

YOUNG SCROOGE: Thank you, sir.

FEZZIWIG: And for you, Jake. (hands him coin)

YOUNG MARLEY: I'm most grateful, sir.

MRS. FEZZIWIG: (after picking more money out of his box) My dear boys, poor Mr. Fezziwig,

in his forgetfulness, has neglected to give you all of the money he laid out for you, so

count this as his sincere appreciation for all you've done to make him look good.

(hands them money)

FEZZIWIG: Mrs. Fezziwig! (in horror)

MRS. FEZZIWIG: Yes, dear.

FEZZIWIG: (resigning) Thank you for reminding me.

YOUNG MARLEY: Thank you both.

YOUNG SCROOGE: You are too gracious!

FEZZIWIG: I tend to agree with you, but off with you and have a ……

MRS. FEZZIWIG: Not so fast! I haven't given them MY Christmas present yet.

FEZZIWIG: YOUR Christmas present?!

MRS. FEZZIWIG: Oh, my dear, did you think me calloused enough to neglect wishing these

loyal lads a Merry Christmas in my own way.

FEZZIWIG: Why, of course not, dear. (sitting)


MRS. FEZZIWIG: (unwrapping ribbon from box) My dear Ebenezer and Jake, all the

fashionable business men of today are wearing (pulls off Fezziwig's

wig to his alarm) powdered wigs. Every man of means would feel

naked without one. Therefore, (replacing Fezziwig's wig rather

askew), for Mr. Scrooge (opens box; places wig on him) and for Mr.

Marley (places wig on him. They all laugh at new look)

FEZZIWIG: Enough damage done---now out of here you two distinguished

gentlemen, and don't you dare come near this office tomorrow!

BOTH: Yes, sir and Merry Christmas, sir.

MRS. FEZZIWIG: Merry Christmas! We'll see the four of you at the Christmas celebration.

FEZZIWIG: Merry Christmas!

YOUNG MARLEY: Shall we go, ladies?

YOUNG SCROOGE: You know, Jake, you look like my grandmother!

YOUNG MARLEY: Your rich grandmother! (displaying his coins)

AMANDA: The Fezziwigs really know how to celebrate Christmas!

BELLE: I'd say they're the most generous couple in all of England! (general assent by all)

[Lights fade on scene].

PAST: Can you believe all the praise they generate over such a small matter?

SCROOGE: Small?

PAST: Why, is it not? He has only sacrificed a few pounds of your mortal

money. Is that so much that he deserves this praise?

SCROOGE: It isn't that, Spirit. He has the power to render our work happy or

unhappy; tedious or light; a pleasure or a toil. The happiness he

gives is greater than a fortune. [Pauses to see spirit's stare, bows

head]

PAST: What is the matter?

SCROOGE: Nothing.

PAST: Something, I think.

SCROOGE: No, I should merely like to be able to say a word or two to my clerk

just now. That's all.

PAST: Yes, Ebenezer. I think you have forgotten some of the lessons on how


to run an office which you learned from him. Evil isn't just what you

do---it's what you don't do, but time is short and we must move on. [Raises hand,

turns timepiece, black out.]


ACT II

Scene 4

[Lights come up on Ebenezer in office working busily]

SCROOGE: Where are we now?

PAST: Another Christmas, Ebenezer. I think you remember. You were

engaged to be married to Belle, but you had some important business

to attend to---as you did most nights.

SCROOGE: But I loved her, Spirit!

PAST: Then, why did you leave her?

SCROOGE: She left me, Spirit, because she no longer loved me.

PAST: No longer loved you? You must grow old, Ebenezer, for your mind

obviously chooses to forget the truth. Observe.

BELLE: It is obvious, Ebenezer, that another has replaced me and become

the focus of all your thoughts and attentions and enveloped the

passions of your heart.

YOUNG SCROOGE: I have not been unfaithful to you, Belle. Who do you think has replaced you?

BELLE: Not "who," Ebenezer, what! [throws coins on desk]

YOUNG SCROOGE: I don't understand what you mean, Belle.

BELLE: Can you not see that you have become so infatuated with gaining more wealth and

rising to the top of the business world that there is no room left in your heart for me.

Money is your idol, Ebenezer, and your god.

YOUNG SCROOGE: Am I to be condemned because I seek a life free from the claws of poverty---a

life in which the world cannot look down on me because I have no money. Is it wrong

to seek respect and desire success?

BELLE: It is when it takes a young man who has noble aspirations and strong character and bit

by bit chips away at his morals until his only consideration is how he will profit in the

matter [PAUSE]. I do not enjoy saying these things, Ebenezer. It is not because my

heart is changed toward you, but rather because you have changed.

YOUNG SCROOGE: Even if this is true---I have not changed toward you.

BELLE: Haven't you? Our engagement is an old one, made when we were

both poor and content to be so. You are changed. When it was


made, you were another man. If you were to seek a wife now, would

it be with a penniless girl? Would it be with me?

SCROOGE: YES! Tell her, you fool---Yes!

PAST: Quiet down! I'm trying to listen!

YOUNG SCROOGE: [after a pause] Business hours are not the time to be discussing such

personal affairs.

BELLE: Ebenezer, you once asked for this hand in marriage and I gave it to

you with all my heart. You, in exchange, gave me a gold ring that

symbolized your love for me. [takes it from her hand and throws if

among his coins] It's now only worth its weight in gold. I know now

without a doubt that you no longer love me, nor will you regret my

parting long, but merely dismiss it as an unfortunate relationship.

Ebenezer, may you be happy in this life you have chosen. [runs off]

SCROOGE: Go after her, you fool, go after her.

[Young Scrooge looks at ring, puts it in pocket]

SCROOGE: Spirit! Show me no more! Conduct me home. Why do you delight to

torture me?

PAST: I told you these were shadows of things that have been. That they

are what they are do not blame me!

SCROOGE: Remove me! Haunt me no longer!

PAST: No Ebenezer, one shadow more---far longer ago and far more

important to you if change is ever to come to Ebenezer Scrooge.

Observe. [Arm raised; turns timepiece and blackout]

ACT II

Scene 5

[Lights rise on stable]

SCROOGE: What place is this, Spirit? Why do you bring me to this dirty stable

and who is this woman who lies there in such strange apparel?

PAST: [kneeling] This is the place of which your mother told you where God's

Son came into the world. [Joseph enters and puts Jesus in her arms

and goes to empty manger to make room for baby]


SCROOGE: [dropping to knees] I---I did not believe.

PAST: As you see, unbelief never changes Truth.

SCROOGE: Why would God's Son come into such a place? Even the stench of

the place is nearly unbearable.

PAST: Ebenezer, the stench of your sins surpasses this place a thousandfold

and yet He desires to dwell in your heart.

SCROOGE: Oh, Spirit. Your words strike me with blows as heavy as though they

were struck with your hand.

PAST: Words of truth are always difficult for those who have neglected them

so long.

SCROOGE: I cannot deny the accuracy of your words, Spirit, you have shown me

the folly of my life and I stand guilty, but I do not comprehend how this

Baby, whom I have heard came to save the world, has any

significance to me.

PAST: You need not know that He came for the world, Ebenezer, but only

that He came for you.

[Joseph takes Jesus and puts Him in manger]

SONG: WHAT CHILD IS THIS? [CHOIR] [The Choir sings from the rear of the auditorium while the focus remains on the nativity scene.]

[Shepherds arrive during song]

PAST:My time with you grows to a close, Ebenezer. Do not forget the things you

have witnessed nor the lessons you have learned. Your destiny depends

upon it.

SCROOGE: Spirit, I still do not understand, Spirit---Spirit. [Blackout]

ACT II

Scene 5

[Lights up]

SCROOGE: Spirit !

[standing by bed---drops exhausted as lights fade].


SONG: O HOLY NIGHT (Solo or Quartet) (This can be sung as a solo, quartet or as instrumental according to talent available.)


ACT III Scene 1

[Chime rings 2:00 and we immediately hear the sound of bold laughter, then "Merry Christmas, Ebenezer" in a booming voice. Lights come up to see Scrooge's room decked with greenery and a table of baked goods. Present is devouring a turkey leg] PRESENT: Come in and know me better, man. I am the Spirit of Christmas Present! Look on me

and my banquet table! There is refreshment for all who will come. Have an apple,

Ebenezer.

SCROOGE: I have no appetite, Spirit.

PRESENT: No appetite! Ridiculous. Poor Ebenezer, you have never eaten of the joys of

Christmas nor have you ever seen the like of me before.

SCROOGE: Never.

PRESENT: You have never walked forth with the younger members of my family---meaning my

elder brothers.

SCROOGE: I don't think I have. In fact, I'm certain I haven't. Have you had many brothers, Spirit?

PRESENT: Let's see. I am the Spirit of Christmas Present 1843 which means I have more than

1800 brothers!

SCROOGE: Quite a large family!

PRESENT: Yes, it is unfortunate you have not become acquainted with more of us, but then, you

have not even chosen to seek Him whose birth we celebrate, so we will seek Him

tonight in the heart of those who understand the true

significance of Christmas.

SCROOGE: Spirit, conduct me where you will. The last Spirit compelled me to go and I learned

many difficult lessons. Now, if you have further truth, let me profit by it.

PRESENT: Touch my robe. [Lights black out].

ACT III

Scene 2

SONG: WE THREE KINGS [CHOIR and Congregation] [Song begins as choir enters as

well as church members including Cratchits and nephew and wife. (One verse)]

SCROOGE: Where are all these people going, Spirit?


PRESENT: To church, Ebenezer, to church! What better day to worship God than the day He sent

the world the greatest Gift it has ever known---though it was wrapped in the humblest

of packages.

SCROOGE: Why, look it's Bob Cratchit and there---there's my nephewl

PRESENT: Yes, Ebenezer, just as there were wise men in days of old who recognized

God's Son even so today there are wise men---and there are FOOLS. Sit

and listen to what is said, Ebenezer.

PREACHER: Psalm 14:1 reads "The fool hath said in his heart THERE IS NO

GOD." Psalm 53:1 repeats it, "The fool hath said in his heart THERE

IS NO GOD." It is an unusual text for a Christmas day sermon, yet I

believe there is a person or persons here today who has unbelief

clogged in his heart. Maybe you have never said, "There is no God,"

but do your actions speak those words? Is all your energy focused on

gaining more and more for yourself without regard to the welfare of

others? Are you piling up possessions for this world while never

pausing to consider your spiritual poverty? Christmas is a time of

giving to others in remembrance of the unselfish sacrificial supreme

Gift of God to all mankind. There is indeed a Christmas Spirit which

causes us to manifest charity when we look at God's unsurpassed

love. It first captured the hearts of wise men who saw a star and

travelled from afar, perhaps searching for years, to find this King of

Kings and give gifts to the Saviour. And I believe there is a Christmas

Spirit here today which has brought each of you to this service to

worship the One who was born over 1800 years ago into a sin-

scarred world to bring freedom from sin to any who will trust in Him.

But, I also believe there are others who have come as a ritual or a

tradition---who have not entered a church house door all year long---

nor have they stopped to examine their souls’ starving dilemma or its

eternal destiny. Are you the fool who has said in his heart, "there is

no God"? I challenge each of you to examine your heart today. If all

of your earthly possessions burnt to the ground and all of your friends


and family forsook you, could there still be peace and joy in your

heart?

PREACHER and SCROOGE: Impossible!

PREACHER: Some of you will say. That is because you have not met Jesus who came to bring

peace and joy to cold, empty hearts like yours. Will you dare to believe this star of hope that

I tell you of? The key to this peace and joy is BELIEF. Follow this star of hope as the wise

men did and you will find a Saviour, Jesus---and Christmas

will suddenly be more than a tradition, it will be a celebration of God's gift to YOU. Let's rise

and sing “O Come All Ye Faithful.”

SONG: OH COME ALL YE FAITHFUL [CHOIR and Congregation]. [Church members

exit]

(Present rises, pokes Scrooge and lights fade as Scrooge takes hold of robe.)

ACT III

Scene 3

PRESENT: Observe, Ebenezer. Here is a home which you should find of interest though you have

never before set foot in it, to your shame! [Bob coming in with Tim on shoulders

kissing his wife, hugging others].

SCROOGE: Why it's Bob Cratchit and look at all those children.

PRESENT: He's a blessed man, no thanks to you, mind.

MRS. CRATCHIT: You shan't have anything until the herd of you wash your hands.

[general hubbub]. And wash them well! [To Bob] And how did Tiny Tim

behave?

BOB: As good as gold and better. He told me coming home that he hoped the

people saw him in church because he was a cripple and it might be pleasant

to remember upon Christmas Day, the One who made lame beggars walk

and blind men see. [Children run back in].

PETER: Is it time for the Christmas punch and the story?

MRS. CRATCHIT: Are those hands clean [some raise hands]. All of them? [inspects]

I suppose they'll pass this time.


BOB: Did someone mention Christmas punch?

ALL CHILDREN: YES! And the story!

BOB: Well, it sounds unanimous. Peter, bring in the pitchers.

MRS. CRATCHIT: Martha, you and Ruth bring us some glasses.

BOB: Now, settle down by the fire, children. Thank you, Peter. Thank you, Ruth

` and Martha. Now, hold out your cups and no spilling. There's only enough

for one glass apiece. A Merry Christmas to us all, my dear family. May God

bless us.

CHILDREN AND MRS. CRATCHIT: God bless us.

TINY TIM: God bless us everyone! [all drink]

BOB: And a blessing on Mr. Scrooge, the founder of our feast.

MRS. CRATCHIT: Mr. Scrooge!? How dare you ruin our festivities with the mention of

His name---founder of our feast! Indeed. If he paid you what you deserve we

could afford to have a feast.

BOB: My dear, not in front of the children---on Christmas Day.

MRS. CRATCHIT: Christmas never stops him from being the stingy, hard, unfeeling man

that he is. Why should I pretend otherwise?

BOB: My dear, Christmas day.

MRS. CRATCHIT: For your sake, Bob. Long life to Mr. Scrooge and may he live to be

one hundred and two and may every tooth rot out of his head so he can replace it with

a golden one.

CHILDREN: [disgruntled] To Mr. Scrooge.

PETER: Let's hear the story, Father.

BOB: All right, son. My dear, will you fetch the Bible?

TINY TIM: Father, could you answer a question first?

BOB: Why, of course, Tim. What is it?

TINY TIM: Why did Jesus come into the world if he knew that He would have to die?

BOB: Well, Tiny Tim, Jesus knew that one day there would be a little boy who was

awfully good, but not good enough to get into heaven, so He was born on Christmas

day a long time ago and lived a perfect life and then gave up His life by dying on a

cross, so that Tiny Tim could one day accept Jesus' sacrifice as his ticket into heaven.


TINY TIM: Did Jesus die for Mr. Scrooge too, Father?

BOB: [regretfully] Yes, Tim. But, Mr. Scrooge only believes what he sees in his bank book,

not what he finds in the holy book.

TINY TIM: Let's pray for him, Father, that he will believe.

BOB: All right, son.

SCROOGE: Spirit, tell me Tiny Tim will live.

PRESENT: I see a vacant seat in the chimney corner and a crutch without an owner, carefully

preserved. If these shadows remain unaltered by the future, the child will die.

SCROOGE: No---NO! Oh, no, kind Spirit! Say he will be spared.

PRESENT: If these shadows remain unaltered by the Future, none other of my race will find him

here. But if he's going to die, he'd better do it and decrease the surplus population.

[Scrooge hangs head]. Touch my robe. [BLACK OUT].

ACT III Scene 4

[Lights come up on empty stage with Bob, Charity Ladies, Fred and the Cratchit children kneeling in prayer at different areas of the stage.] PRESENT: Ebenezer, do you remember why Jacob Marley said we spirits would visit with you

tonight?

SCROOGE: Uh, oh yes---prayers!

PRESENT: Very good, Ebenezer, prayers. Although you are merely a tight-fisted, squeezing,

wrenching, grasping, scraping, clutching, covetous old sinner, yet ---for some

unknown reason, you are in the prayers of many, even tonight. Listen carefully.

BOB: Lord, it's very difficult to pray for Mr. Scrooge and yet Tim helped me to see

that he needs you just as we all do. My faith is small, Lord, but I humbly ask

that you show him all the wonder of your grace and mercy to all sinners.

CHARITY 2: Our most gracious heavenly Father, we haven't nearly the funds we need.

There are so man who rely on us for assistance. We need a miracle from you.

CHARITY 1: Lord, about that nasty man, Mr. Scrooge, he seems awfully unhappy with all

. that money, so why don't you empty his pockets of it and, Lord, if you put it

in our hands, we’ll make certain it gets to those who need it most.


FRED: Uncle Scrooge is so miserable, it seems impossible, but I ask once again,

that you change his heart and give him the joy that I have because of your

Son, Jesus Christ.

TINY TIM: God, Mr. Scrooge doesn't believe in You, and yet father says that You diedfor him,

too. Let him know that you died for him, so he doesn't have to be so unhappy.

SONG: FA LA LA LA LA LA LA AMEN (to tune of Deck the Halls) Children's Choir.

[Group of children around Tiny Tim sing as Present and Scrooge listen from behind them with open hearts. Children run off to play at end of song.]

ACT III Scene 5

PRESENT: Children are a joyous gift, Ebenezer, but, you know, we are all children at

heart, or at least we should be. Do you know these people, Ebenezer?

[Lights come up on a party at Fred's house. No sound yet.]

SCROOGE: Why, it's my nephew and that must be his wife. Why she is a beautiful

creature.

PRESENT: Have you never seen her?

SCROOGE: I have always refused, Spirit, in my ignorance. [Sound of laughter]

WIFE: Then it’s an animal.

FRED: [very tickled throughout] Yes.

1ST GUEST: A savage animal?

FRED: Oh, yes!

2ND GUEST:An animal that growls and grunts?

FRED: Most definitely.

WIFE: Does it live in London?

FRED: Of course.

3RD GUEST: And walks the streets?

FRED: Every day!

4T GUEST: Does it live in a zoo?

FRED: Why, no.


4TH GUEST: It's a dog. FRED: No.

2ND GUEST: A cat! FRED: (shaking head)

6TH GUEST: A cow! FRED: (shaking head)

3RD GUEST: A horse! FRED: (shaking head)

4TH GUEST: A pig! FRED: (shaking head)

5TH GUEST: A tiger! FRED: (shaking head)

WIFE: A bear! FRED: (shaking head)

1ST GUEST: No, it must be a horse!

FRED: No, no, no, no. [roaring with laughter]

4TH GUEST: I know what it is! I've found you out!

FRED: What is it?

4TH GUEST: It's your Uncle Scrooge? [all roar in laughter].

WIFE: Why that's not fair dear. I asked if it was a bear and you told me "no"!

[all laugh again]

FRED: Ah, my poor Uncle, he said that Christmas was a humbug. And worse, he

believed it too!

WIFE: More the shame to him! I have no patience with a rich man who

hoards all his money and won't even humble himself to visit his poor

relatives.

FRED: Oh, he's harmless enough except to himself. I am sorry for him. I couldn't

be angry with him if I tried.

6TH GUEST: Is it true that your Uncle is the richest man in all of England?

FRED: A lot of good it does him if he is! For the way he lives, you'd think he was a

peasant.

5TH GUEST: Maybe he's saving it all up to give to you when he dies.

FRED: Noooooo. I hardly think so. I honestly believe he thinks he's going to take

it with him. And besides, I'm certain that I'm already the richest man in

England, for I have the prettiest wife (wife curtsies), the finest cook (curtsies

again), an impeccable housecleaner (curtsies), and the very best of friends.

(Cheers from all)


WIFE: Now, let's try to keep our conversation off unpleasant subjects like

your Uncle Scrooge.

FRED: Yes! So what if he won't dine with us because he's gotten it into his head

that he shan't like us. He only loses a good dinner.

1 ST GUEST: A great dinner!

3RD GUEST: A dinner beyond compare!

2ND GUEST: A feast!

5TH GUEST: [rising] I propose that we work off our dinner by going caroling out

into the streets of London. [rousing consensus].

1 ST GUEST: An excellent idea!

6TH GUEST: Well, what are we waiting for? Let's put on our wraps.

SONG: CAROLING, CAROLING MEDLEY.

[Choir enters from rear of auditorium up the center aisle in pairs of two evenly dispersed from front to rear. They kneel as party group assembles on stairs and begins to sing. Present takes Scrooge along side group and urges him to sing along. As "Angels We Have Heard On High" ends, the choir rises to form a canopy by locking hands with their partner held overhead. The party group runs through canopy to rear and adds onto line as a new group of carolers assemble from the front of the line. This all takes place as the "Caroling" chorus is sung. The next group sings "The First Noel" as Present teaches Scrooge to have fun by throwing baskets of snow on the Carolers as they sing. The song ends and this party runs through canopy to rear as new group assembles on stairs while all sing "Caroling" chorus again. New group sings "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear" as Present directs with turkey leg and Scrooge assists with much spirit. This group runs through canopy to end as new group assembles once again, this time singing "Angels From the Realms of Glory. " Now Present and Scrooge are singing and nearly dancing along with the festivities until they end and as they exit the canopy follows while on last refrain of "Caroling" is sung.]

PRESENT: You see, Ebenezer, Christmas is a joyous time to worship together and

fellowship together---a time to celebrate as well as meditate---but, it is not, nor

ever was---nor ever will be---a HUMBUG! My life upon this globe is very,

brief--do not waste it---your time is brief also. [BLACKOUT]

ACT IV

Scene 1


SCROOGE: Spirit! Spirit! [Sound of strong wind, 3:00 sounds and specter appears in hooded

cloak]

SCROOGE: I am in the presence of the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come? [YTC points]

You are about to show me shadows of the things that have not happened,

but will happen in the time before us. Is that so, Spirit? [no answer] Ghost

of the Future, I fear you more than any specter I have seen, but as I know

your purpose is to do me good, and as I hope to live to be another man than

what I was, I am prepared to bear you company and do it with a thankful

heart. Will you not speak to me? [YTC points] Lead on! The night is waning

fast and it is precious time to me, I know. Lead on, Spirit! [follows YTC as

lights fade]

ACT IV

Scene 2

[Three hags enter auditorium cackling and meet Joe on the stage.]

JOE: Good day, ladies. I understand the devil's got one of his own at last--and

none too soon! And if my eyes don't deceive me, I'd say we've already been

able to relieve him of some of his earthly burdens.

1st WOMAN: Yes, Joe, I don't know much about it either way, but he's dead as a doornail,

to be sure. We can all promise you that. [all laugh]

2nd WOMAN: And everyone profits by it. The devil's got more coal for his fire and we've

brought enough of his wares to keep us all warm for the winter.

3rd WOMAN: And I don't feel no remorse neither. He sent more widows and children

begging into the street than any man I know---if indeed he was a man and not

a demon.

JOE: Well, he's getting some of his own now, and all of his money doesn't help him one

iota. Come to think of it, what has he done with it?

2nd WOMAN: I haven't heard. He hasn't left it to me, that's all I know. But we helped

ourselves to some of the inheritance just the same. Take a look and see!

JOE: [unwrapping bundle] What have we here? Blankets! You don't mean to say..

1st WOMAN: We figured he wasn't needing them no more, now was he?


3rd WOMAN: Every person has a right to take care of themselves---he always did! He was the

meanest wretch in all of London.

2nd WOMAN: Go ahead, tell Joe what you did. [pushing 1st woman].

1st WOMAN: I was helping myself to his best clothes since he won't be needing them where he's

going, and I thought I'd check out the clothes he died in . . .

JOE: You don't mean to say . . .

1St WOMAN: Yes, I do. Why not? Well, I found a purse of gold hanging round his neck

right atop his cold, dead heart.

2nd WOMAN: So, you see, he didn't die alone after all---he had his closest and only friend

with him right to the end [laughter]

1st WOMAN: And now we'll take care of his friend for him.

3rd WOMAN: And all of England will have extra cause to celebrate this season!

SCROOGE: Why do you show me this conversation? Why would this man's death affect

me? I have no friends. (gasps) Who is this man of whom they speak and why is there

no sadness over his passing? I see; I see! The case of this unhappy man might be my

own.

My life tends that way now, but am I to believe that the untimely, bitter extinguishing

of one man’s flame of life merely kindles pleasure and covetous greed in his fellow

creatures? Is there never sorrow or tenderness connected with death? Show me a

place where there is sorrow over death. [YTC points. Scrooge follows.]

ACT IV

Scene 3

[Go to graveyard where the Cratchit family mourns]

PETER: I miss him, father.

BOB: So do we all, Peter, especially this time of year. He did so love Christmas.

I remember him saying last year that he wished he could buy us that huge

prize turkey hanging in the window at the corner market, just to see our

surprise and hear the "oohs" and "ahs" of the other children as it adorned the

center of our Christmas feast. If only he knew how much he did give us with

his ever-present smile, his brave spirit, and his tender touch.

MARTHA: And somehow he could always find so much pleasure watching us play in


the snow, even though he wasn't able to play himself.

RUTH: Do you think Tim can play now, Mama?

MRS. CRATCHIT: Oh, I'm certain he not only plays but runs and jumps right before the

throne of God himself. No doubt he's as loved in heaven as he ever was on

earth---though I can't imagine anyone loving him any more than we did.

Oh Bob! [starts crying]

BOB: [after a moment] We promised him we would be brave, for we only cry for

ourselves---not for him. He is in a much better place and is far happier

without his crutch or his poverty or his pain. Remember Jesus' words,

children, "Let not your heart be troubled, ye believe in God, believe also in

me. [MRS. CRATCHIT joins in] In my Father's house are many mansions.

If it were not so I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.

[Children join in] And if I go to prepare a place for you, I will come again and

receive you unto myself that where I am there ye may be also. [Family hug]

ACT IV

Scene 4

SCROOGE: Please, Spirit, tell me that these things can change. [Spirit walks

away]. Spirit, I sense our parting moment is at hand. Tell me what

man that was who died friendless and unloved. [points to opposite side]

Before I draw nearer to that stone to which you point; answer me

one question. Are these the shadows of things that WILL be or are

they shadows of things that only MAY be? [pause--slowly reads from

tombstone] Eb-e-ne-zer Scrooge. [Scrooge drops to knees] Am I the

man of whom they spake? No, Spirit, NO, NO!

SCROOGE: Spirit, why show me these horrors if I am past all hope? Show me the way to be

saved from this terrible doom. Marley told me of the chains of sin that encompassed

me, and I scoffed, but I now feel the weight of these chains which though I want to

change, still drag me straight toward Hell's gate. The Spirit of the Past showed me a

baby who came to save the world. The Spirit of the Present showed me people who

were changed because of this One

who came, but I am still in my chains---unloved and unforgiven---and no


man can free me. Spirit, lead me to my hope of salvation. [Lights fade]

ACT IV

Scene 5

[Sounds of pounding nails are heard: Lights come up on crucifixion scene.We see only a hazy view.

SCROOGE is led to front]

SONG: BEHOLD THE MAN (CHOIR)

(It is sung by choir in the rear of the auditorium while focus remains on the crucifixion scene.

During song, SCROOGE kneels overwhelmed by sight; As song ends, SCROOGE follows YTC and

scene with cross fades]

SCROOGE: Can you not explain what I have witnessed? My soul is moved beyond words,

but my mind is void of understanding. Give me the words which will

open my eyes to this mystery. [YTC pulls Bible from cloak] What is this? A

book? A Bible. I SHALL search its pages, Spirit, without fail. But you must

tell me that I may sponge away the writing on this tombstone, that these

shadows may be altered---[YTC moves] Spirit, don't leave me---Spirit promise

me! Spirit! [Lights blackout]

ACT IV

Scene 6

[Lights up on bedroom]

SCROOGE: Spirit--oh.

[SCROOGE looks around room then down at bed and finds Bible. He

immediately opens it and begins reading.] [Lights fade and rise with

SCROOGE on his chair in awe]

SONG: WHO IS HE (CHOIR)

[This song is used to show all that Scrooge has been reading in the Bible; therefore each verse shows Scrooge reading in a different position. The first verse he walks to chair and sits. Lights go down at the end of verse one and then come back as second verse begins finding him curled up in chair reading intently. The third verse finds him kneeling by bed as he reads of crucifixion. The last verse finds him pacing back and forth excitedly.]


SCROOGE: "Jesus said unto her, 'I am the resurrection and the life; he that believeth in me,

though he were dead yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall

never die. Believe thou this?' [SCROOGE still not completely sure, turns more pages

as lights fade] "But Peter said unto him, 'Thy money perish with thee, because thou

hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money...thy heart is not right

in the sight of God. Repent therefore of this thy wickedness and pray God if...thine

heart may be forgiven thee.

SCROOGE AND MARLEY: [SCROOGE curls up in chair] For I perceive that thou art in

the gall of bitterness and in the bond of iniquity."

SCROOGE: Forgive me---show me the way. [Lights fade on scene] "And ye shall know the truth

and the truth shall make you free... If the Son therefore shall make

you free, ye shall be free indeed."

PAST: Your heart is still a stone, I see, distorting truth as falsity and falsity as truth.

[SCROOGE turns to John 3:16)

SCROOGE: "For God so loved the world—“

PAST: You need not know that He came for the world, Ebenezer but only that He

came for you.

SCROOGE: For God so loved---Ebenezer Scrooge---that He gave His only

begotten Son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but

have everlasting life. For God sent not His Son into the world—unto

Ebenezer Scrooge-- to condemn the w---Ebenezer Scrooge---but that Ebenezer

Scrooge through him might be saved. [flips to John 8:36] "And the truth shall make

you free--free!--l'm free! [hurriedly flips pages to John 11:26] "And whosoever

believeth in me shall never die. Believeth thou this?" I do. Yes indeed I do! [Lights

fade as Scrooge falls to his knees.]

SONG: O GLORIOUS LOVE (SCROOGE) [Song begins in darkness then rise]

[Song begins in darkness until Scrooge sings "touched my eyes and made me see. " Scrooge sings

only the first verse and chorus.]


SCROOGE: Oh, I must tell someone what has happened to me. No one will believe it! I don't

believe it! Oh, but I DO believe it! [trying to compose himself] Let's see, I must tell a

friend! [ponders, then snickers] I haven't a friend! Oh, but what an assembly of

enemies I have to tell! [Laughs] I don't know what to do! I am as light as a feather, as

happy as an angel, as light as a schoolboy, and as giddy as a drunken man. A merry

Christmas to everybody! A happy New Year to all the world! Hallo! Ah, I don't know

what day of the month it is! I don't know how long I've been among the spirits. I don't

know anything. I'm quite a baby! But I don't care. I'd rather be a baby. Hallol [runs to

window and opens it; boy walking by]

SCROOGE: What's today?

BOY: Eh?

SCROOGE: What's today, fine fellow?

BOY: Today! Why Christmas Day!

SCROOGE: It's Christmas day! I haven't missed it. The spirits have done it all in

one night. They can do as they please. Of course, they can. Hallo,

my fine fellow! Where are you headed?

BOY: To church, sir, for the Christmas service.

SCROOGE: What a fine idea. Before you proceed, do you know the corner market in the next

street?

BOY: I should hope I did.

SCROOGE: An intelligent boy! A remarkable boy! Do you know whether they've sold the prize

turkey that was hanging up there? Not the little prize turkey--the big one!

BOY: What the one as big as me?

SCROOGE: What a delightful boy! It's a pleasure to talk to him. Yes, my buck!

BOY: It's hanging there now.

SCROOGE: Is it? Then go and buy it.

BOY: Are you joshing me, sir?

SCROOGE: No, NO! I am in earnest. Go and buy it and tell them to bring it here. Come

back with the man, and I'll give you a shilling. Come back with him in less

than five minutes, and I'll give you half a crown! (BOY takes off) Won't Bob

be dumbfounded to receive a bird twice the size of Tiny Tim. [laughs] Now


to get ready for church. [laughs] Ebenezer Scrooge going to church. Why

everyone will think I've come to repossess the pews. Oh, what shall I wear?

[looking in mirror] Merry Christmas, Ebenezer! [begins shaving]. Why, don't

you look handsome this morning. I hardly recognize you. You're a new

man, Yes, I'm a new man. [LIGHTS FADE]

SONG: CAROL OF THE BELLS.

[This is a transitional song to bring continuity to three short scenes. Sopranos begin by entering slowly from sides and meeting in front center in a line. Meanwhile, the altos come in from either side and remain in two lines on the side. The tenors and basses remain in the back so that the audience hears in stereo, so to speak. As chorus nears conclusion, the sopranos break and join altos on both sides.]

ACT IV

Scene 7

[Knock is heard at the Cratchit door. Cratchit goes to open it.]

SCROOGE: Mr. Cratchit! (with a terrible glare)

BOB: Mr. Scrooge!! Y-y-y-you said th-that I could have th-the day off work.

SCROOGE: I did!? Well, I was mistaken. (pause)

MRS. CRATCHIT: (about to rail on Scrooge) Mr. Scrooge! You are . . .

SCROOGE: Hold your tongue, woman. As I was saying---I was mistaken--- (with a slight grin) I

want you to take the whole week, Bob.

BOB: Pardon, sir?

SCROOGE: I want to give you the week to spend with the family---with pay, of course.

BOB: Sir, I don't understand.

SCROOGE: Well, of course, you don't, Bob!! Now, I forgot to give you your Christmas

present. (goes to pick up turkey)

BOB AND MRS. C.: CHRISTMAS PRESENT!!

SCROOGE: Now, pardon me, but this thing is heavy. Merry Christmas, Bob--- [throws turkey

down on table] Ah, and a Merry Christmas to your lovely wife. [pinches cheek]. You

are a lovely woman and I'm sure a fine cook, but if you want to eat this for dinner,


you'd best get busy with it [still looking astounded] Oh, you'd rather I do it! Well,

I've never tried, but I'll give it my best shot [heads for it].

MRS. CRATCHIT: Oh no! No, Mr. Scrooge. Bob, bring this bird into the kitchen for me.

[Both head out. Scrooge heads for presents and disperses them to the children with screams of

pleasure.]

MRS CRATCHIT: [thinking they are being murdered]. Our children, save them!

[sees the miracle] Has Mr. Scrooge gone mad?

BOB: I'm not certain, but it seems a distinct possibility. [To Scrooge] Are you sure you don't

want to see a doctor?

SCROOGE: A doctor! (he laughs) I've never felt finer in my life. Bob, oh you have such fine

children. Why did you never tell me? Oh, yes, I suppose I would have barked at you.

Well, Bob, I can't stay right now, but I would like to see what we could do about

giving you a raise. It's long overdue and I would like to see what can be done for Tiny

Tim. I'm most sure a fine doctor can be found

BOB: But, Mr. Scrooge, we can't afford---

SCROOGE: Can't afford, Bob? Why with all the past wages you've been shorted by a certain

man's stinginess, I believe your reimbursement will be more than sufficient to pay for

whatever is needed.

BOB: Mr. Scrooge ---- ,

SCROOGE: I must be going now. Would you mind if I took Tiny Tim along with me?

BOB: Of course not, sir.

SCROOGE: I must be on time for church. I hope to see all of you there. Merry Christmas one and

all? Come along, Tim.

ALL: Merry Christmas, Mr. Scrooge!

MRS. CRATCHIT: You don't suppose this is some sort of joke, do you dear?

BOB: Well, I've never known Mr. Scrooge to be one for humor in the past.

Whatever has happened -- he's a new man!

MRS. CRATCHIT: Hurry, children, we must be on time for church today.

SONG: Reprise of CAROL OF THE BELLS


[Altos exit to back and Sopranos are left on sides.]

ACT IV

Scene 8

[SCROOGE with TINY TIM on shoulders meets two Charity ladies]

SCROOGE: My dear ladies, how do you do? I hope you succeeded yesterday. It was

very kind of you. A Merry Christmas to you.

CHARITY I: Pardon, but I don't seem to remember --

CHARITY Il: Why, it's Mr. Scrooge!

CHARITY I: My goodness gracious it is!

SCROOGE: Yes, that is my name, though I fear it may not be pleasant to you. Allow me

to ask your pardon. I am a new man, you know. And for your goodness --

[leans over and whispers to CHARITY I whose eyes grow big. She

immediately whispers to Charity II].

CHARITY II: Mr. Scrooge!

CHARITY I: Are you serious?

SCROOGE: Of course, I'm not one to joke, you know. [laughs] And may you have a very

Merry Christmas. Just stop by the office anytime.

BOTH: And a Merry Christmas to you, Sir!

SONG: Reprise CAROL OF THE BELLS

[Sopranos exit to back and all sing from rear by end of song.]

ACT IV

Scene 9

[Scrooge meets Fred and wife]

SCROOGE: Fred, how are you, my fine nephew? A very Merry Christmas to you and---

Ah, Fred told me that you were lovely, but not angelic.

WIFE: Why, thank you, Mr. Scrooge.

SCROOGE: Uncle, my dear, Uncle!

WIFE: [pleased] Uncle Scrooge!


FRED: Why Uncle -- I didn't recognize you.

SCROOGE: That's no surprise, my boy, I scarcely know myself. I shall explain all later.

Only tell me if the invitation to dinner still stands.

FRED: Why, of course. You know you're always welcome.

FRED'S WIFE: We count it a pleasure.

SCROOGE: You are a dear creature. Now, we must hurry into church before we're late.

Right, Tiny Tim?

TIM: Yes, Sir, Mr. Scrooge!

Act IV

Scene 10

[Churchgoers enter as in scene with Present, but this time including entire Cratchit family

as well as Scrooge.][ALL ENTER TO We Three Kings]

PASTOR: Psalm 14:1 reads, "The fool hath said in his heart THERE IS NO GOD."

Psalm 53:1 repeats it---

SCROOGE: THE FOOL HATH SAID IN HIS HEART THERE IS NO GOD!--- (runs to

front) I'm so sorry to disturb your wonderful sermon on the fool. It truly is a

fine sermon, but as a former fool myself, I must share what has happened

to me. Just yesterday, I was a tight-fisted, squeezing wrenching, grasping,

scraping, clutching, covetous old sinner without an ounce of generosity or

love for anyone but myself, but today---everything is changed.

SONG: O GLORIOUS LOVE.

[Scrooge begins song then has Cratchit join him for verse 2. Then nephew and his wife join them at chorus along with Tiny Tim and Mrs. Cratchit. Entire choir sings the conclusion and lights blackout.]


A CHRISTIAN CHRISTMAS CAROL ACT I Scene 1 SONG : Here We ...

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