London's prestigious Sadler's Wells theatre is currently hosting a revolutionary take on a Christmas classic, as ZooNation Dance Company's 'Ebony Scrooge' delivers an electrifying, five-star spectacle. This vibrant production, which runs until 4 January 2026, masterfully reimagines Charles Dickens's timeless tale through the explosive energy of hip-hop dance theatre.
A Contemporary Reworking of a Dickensian Classic
Directed and choreographed by the acclaimed Kate Prince, the narrative shifts the action to a sleek, modern office in the heart of London. The central character, Ebeneeza Scrooge, is portrayed as a ruthless, work-obsessed finance director, brilliantly played by Jaih Betote. Her journey begins on a bleak Christmas Eve, where her cold dismissal of her employee, Bobbie Marley (a compelling Liyana Sargent), and her nephew Fred (an energetic Callum Sterling) sets the stage for a supernatural intervention.
The production is propelled by an original score that seamlessly blends festive melodies with hip-hop, grime, and soul, created by Josh Cohen and DJ Walde. This sonic landscape provides the perfect foundation for Prince's choreography, which tells the story with astonishing clarity and emotional depth, proving narrative dance at its most powerful.
Spectacular Visits from Spirits of Past, Present and Future
The transformative visits from the ghosts form the breathtaking core of the show. The Ghost of Christmas Past, danced with ethereal grace by Lizzie Gough, guides Ebeneeza through poignant memories of her younger self (a standout Megan Lawson) and lost love, Belle. The sequence is a masterclass in storytelling through movement, evoking both joy and profound sadness.
Audiences are then swept into a joyous, present-day street party by the Ghost of Christmas Present, embodied by the charismatic Jared Alexander. This segment is a riot of colour, community, and incredible dance skill, showcasing the full ensemble's talent. The final, chilling visitation from the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come is a stark, visually stunning piece that leaves a powerful impression.
A Triumphant and Heartwarming Finale
Ebeneeza's redemption is as satisfying as it is spectacular. Her awakening on Christmas morning is met with a show-stopping solo from Betote, a whirlwind of popping and locking that physically embodies her newfound joy and liberation. The concluding scenes, where she makes amends with Bobbie Marley and joins Fred's party, overflow with genuine warmth and celebratory dance.
This is not merely a dance show with a Christmas theme; it is a complete, coherent, and utterly captivating theatrical experience. 'Ebony Scrooge' honours the heart of Dickens's message—redemption, community, and kindness—while presenting it through a fiercely contemporary and accessible lens. It confirms ZooNation and Kate Prince as visionary forces in British theatre, creating work that is technically phenomenal and deeply human. This is the must-see festive production in London this season.
