What's Happening?
Jean Smart is set to portray the Ghost of Christmas Past in a one-night-only staged reading of Charles Dickens' 'A Christmas Carol' on December 17, 2026. The event, which will benefit The Ed Asner Family Center, features Bryan Cranston as Ebenezer Scrooge
and Noah Wyle as Scrooge's nephew Fred. Directed by Victor Nelli, the performance will be presented in the style of a traditional radio play, incorporating live music and a Foley artist for sound effects. The intimate event will take place at Burbank's Garry Marshall Theatre, with only 75 in-person attendees, and will also be streamed live worldwide through Broadway Unlocked. The cast also includes Tom Bergeron, Clancy Brown, Dorian Harewood, Samantha Sloyan, Tal Anderson, Chelsea Darnell, and Spencer Harte.
Why It's Important?
This star-studded production of 'A Christmas Carol' is significant for its charitable purpose, with all proceeds directly supporting The Ed Asner Family Center. This organization provides crucial services and opportunities for neurodivergent individuals and their families, including mental health services, arts and enrichment activities, social opportunities, adult day programming, and pathways to employment. The event also highlights the center's commitment to inclusion by employing autistic self-advocates as educators and staff. The choice of 'A Christmas Carol,' a story emphasizing compassion and community, aligns with the center's mission, making the fundraiser a meaningful platform to raise awareness and funds for neurodivergent support.
What's Next?
The 'A Christmas Carol' benefit is scheduled for December 17, 2026, at 7 p.m. Pacific time. In-person tickets, priced at $500, are limited to 75 guests and include pre-show and post-show receptions, refreshments, and a gift bag. Worldwide livestream tickets are available for $25, allowing a broader audience to participate and contribute to the cause. The event will also honor Vicki Dummer, Head of Current Programming at Warner Bros. Discovery, for her dedication to inclusive storytelling and support for the neurodivergent community. Following the performance, the funds raised will directly support the various programs offered by The Ed Asner Family Center.
Beyond the Headlines
The event's format as a radio play offers a unique theatrical experience, emphasizing the actors' vocal performances and the power of sound to transport the audience. This approach not only showcases the talent of the ensemble but also makes the classic story accessible in a fresh way. Furthermore, the decision to livestream the performance globally expands its reach beyond the physical limitations of the 75-seat theater, fostering a wider sense of community and engagement with the charitable cause. This blend of artistic innovation and philanthropic endeavor underscores the potential for entertainment to serve as a powerful vehicle for social good and advocacy for underrepresented communities.
