A story of connection and community
Globe Theatre's A Christmas Carol brings warmth, wonder and social reflection to the stage
For Judy Wensel, directing A Christmas Carol at Globe Theatre is more than just another seasonal production. It’s a deeply personal return to the place where her artistic life began.
"The Globe has been home to many of my most formative experiences as an artist,” says Judy. “It’s the place that made it possible for me to live in Saskatchewan and still pursue a meaningful career in theatre.”
A director returns to her roots
Her relationship with the Globe began at age 17 and has grown across years of acting, directing, creating and mentoring. Under past artistic director Ruth Smillie, Judy was encouraged to explore all facets of theatre. Now, under the leadership of Jennifer Brewin, she’s returned to direct large-scale holiday productions, including last year’s Peter Pan.
“Even when I’ve spent time away training or working elsewhere, I always find my way back here,” she says. “There’s a strong fire that continues to burn, tended by the artists who stay and care for it. And when old friends come back to feed that fire… well, that’s pure magic.”
Why A Christmas Carol now?
Artistic director Jennifer Brewin says the story's enduring power lies in its simple but powerful question. “There is a reason why this story has resonated with audiences for over 180 years,” says Jennifer. “It’s because the question it raises has never stopped resonating:
How do we show up for each other?”
With Regina, like much of the world, feeling the weight of economic strain and social division, A Christmas Carol offers a timely message. “In Regina today, we’re facing economic pressure, social division and fatigue. That makes it the right time to have a story about community,” says Jennifer. “Scrooge’s redemption shows what we can do in our own city, emphasizing compassion, warmth and hope through radical acts of connection.”
Children lead the way
One of the most exciting shifts in this production is the inclusion of eight child performers, a bold move that adds vibrancy and authenticity to the world onstage.
“I wanted to expand that presence, to let the energy, imagination and truth of young people ripple through the entire production,” says Judy.
Rather than relegating children to the sidelines, they form the Street Urchin Spirit Chorus—playfully nicknamed “the Gurchins” by the show’s designer, Roger Schultz. These young performers act as spiritual guides for Scrooge’s journey.
“They are Dickensian street urchins and agents of change all at once, living reminders of what’s at stake and what’s still possible,”says Judy.
Magic in the round
Staging the production in Globe’s theatre-in-the-round makes the message of shared humanity even more powerful.
“The unique nature of our stage provides an intimacy with the community that highlights our shared humanity,” says Jennifer.
Judy echoes this sentiment. “To share this story on the Globe’s stage… feels like an embodiment of the story’s heart. It’s a reminder that transformation doesn’t happen in isolation; it happens through relationship.”
More than a holiday tale
Jennifer hopes the show inspires more than just seasonal cheer.
“Scrooge’s redemption doesn’t just change him, but the city that surrounds him,” she says. “That’s something that we can take home with us.”
Through inventive staging, a vibrant ensemble, and timeless themes, A Christmas Carol invites Regina audiences to imagine a more connected, compassionate future together.
See it live
Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol runs from November 20 to December 29, 2025, on the Globe Theatre Main Stage. Tickets and showtimes available at globetheatrelive.com.
The Globe Theatre
1801 Scarth Street Regina
(306) 525 6400
Globetheatrelive.com
Photo: Sarah Bergbusch & Kris Alvarez| Jennifer Brewin, Director; Sierra Haynes, Musician; Kenilee Kehler, Set Designer; Meghan Speakman, Stage Manager; Mackenzy Vida, Mask Designer; Devon Bonneau, Lighting Designer; Michael Wanless, Sound Designer & Operator; Ruaridh MacDonald, Coyote, Adult Kid, Ensemble; Sarah Bergbusch, Otter, Kid, Ensemble; Kris Alvarez, Narrator, Ma, Ensemble; Skyler Anderson, Moose, Cashier, Jake, Ensemble