The Must-See Holiday Tradition
Annapolis residents and tourists both eagerly await the Colonial Players’ yearly production of A Christmas Carol as December draws near. Enjoy the joy and celebration that this entertaining tradition brings. With its Victorian-era costumes, glittering lighting, and passionate performances of Charles Dickens’s classic tale, our modest theatre in the downtown historic area transforms into a joyful winter retreat every year. Because of the intimate seating and in-the-round stage, you will feel as if you are a part of Scrooge’s journey.
The town’s beloved tradition, this Christmas spectacular is more than simply another one. Richard Wade and Dick Gessner created a unique adaptation for the Colonial Players, who have been performing the piece since 1981. People of all ages enjoy this captivating tale that combines musical elements with traditional narrative techniques. No matter whether this is your first or tenth Christmas in the area, you’re sure to feel at home thanks to the show’s authentic setting and welcoming characters.
Learn everything you need to know about the event, from where to get tickets (including the world-famous Sidewalk Ticket Sale) to the ins and outs of the historic East Street theatre, and receive insider tips from those who have been before you to make the most of your visit. We’ll discuss every facet of A Christmas Carol, Annapolis, that makes it more than just a play. If you want to feel the joy and practicality of Christmas as well as the emotional highs of the season, you have to see this event.
We will add items like these to our list of things to do in Annapolis at Zavros Place so that your visit is both pleasant and memorable.
The Production: Why Colonial Players is Unique
The History
The Colonial Players of Annapolis have put out A Christmas Carol every year for more than 40 years. Since it started in 1981, this yearly event has been an important feature of the city’s winter festivities. Every year, people from the area come to see the show because of its interesting plot and the theater’s strong ties to the neighborhood. The Colonial Players are committed to providing high-quality, accessible theatre for people of all ages, and this piece is currently in its 44th season.
The Stage
One of the best things about the Colonial Players experience is that the theatre is in the round. There are seats on both sides of the stage, so everyone in the audience can see what’s going on. There are just 180 seats, yet it creates a strong connection between the artists and the audience, making every moment seem genuine and special. The compact space makes the audience feel closer to the performers, which makes every moment seem real, even if there are only 180 seats. The close-up location makes the narrative more emotional by making you feel like you are seeing Scrooge change right in front of your eyes.
The Adaptation
Members of the Colonial Players, Richard Wade and Dick Gessner, rewrote Charles Dickens’s classic for the ensemble, distinguishing it from more traditional stagings of the play. This version combines dramatic narrative with musical interludes, including new compositions that intensify the joyful atmosphere. The cast often comprises a mix of experienced performers and newcomers, with positions switching between performances to highlight the breadth of local talent. The costumes are richly detailed and recall 19th-century London, but the minimalist set design lets the story, and the actors, take centre stage. The result is a production that seems both timeless and distinctively Annapolitan.
2025 Schedule and Ticket Information
The Key Details
The Colonial Players will perform A Christmas Carol from Wednesday, December 3 to Sunday, December 14, 2025, in their theatre on 108 East Street in Annapolis, MD. Weekday and nighttime shows typically start at 7:30 PM, with matinees at 2:00 PM on certain weekends. Each concert is intimate and emotional since the tiny venue can only hold 180 people.
Buying Tickets (High-Value Advice)
Play tickets are in great demand and often sell out within hours of being announced. Tickets are sold solely in cash or by check, with a maximum of eight tickets per person.
Any leftover tickets will be made available online via the Colonial Players’ official ticketing page. So, buy tickets right now!
Pricing
Tickets are reasonably priced to make the tradition accessible:
- General admission costs $10.
- Payment Options: Cash or check for in-person transactions; online purchases may differ somewhat depending on processing costs.
If you would like to go in a group or on a weekend, you should definitely mark your calendar and act quickly because of the demand and limited seats.
Seating Guide:
With the stage in the centre and seats on all four sides, the Colonial Players theatre is built in an in-the-round design. With no seat far from the action, this setup offers an intimate, engaging experience. While every seat is in close proximity, some provide greater sightlines or more interaction, depending on your preferences. Below are some seating tips that you should follow for best experience:
In-Round/Layout
The theatre has an estimated 180 seats in a square layout around the centre stage. There are four primary seating sections: north, south, east, and west, each having tiered rows that rise gradually towards the rear. The performers move seamlessly across all sides of the stage, making the performance seem dynamic and inclusive from all angles.
Best for View.
Seats in the East and West sections are often chosen for the best view of crucial sequences and facial expressions. These sides often confront the most direct blocking and musical passages, providing a balanced view of the entire group. Rows on the intermediate tier (not too near or too distant) provide the finest overall view.
Best for Interaction.
If you want to be right in the middle of the action, get tickets in the first row of any section. During musical pauses, entrances, and exits, actors often come within inches of these seats. The South area is renowned for its occasional direct contact, which makes it perfect for those seeking a more intense experience.
Accessibility
The North part has accessible seating, including wheelchair and companion seating. The theatre entry is step-free, and personnel may help with seating and mobility issues. To verify that your lodgings are booked, call the box office ahead of time.
Logistical Guide to the Colonial Players Venue.
The Colonial Players Theatre is situated at 108 East Street, Annapolis, MD 21401, only steps away from the Maryland State House and Main Street’s busy businesses. The venue is located on a tiny side street, partly concealed by old houses, so it’s recommended to use GPS or a map app to travel straight. Look for the small Colonial Players sign and brick façade, this welcoming entrance leads to one of the region’s most charming theatres.
Parking (Essential Utility)
- Parking in downtown Annapolis may be challenging, particularly during the Christmas season.
- Metered street parking is available nearby; however, space is usually limited. Time constraints apply, and spaces fill up rapidly on performance evenings. T
- The most trustworthy choice is to park in one of the public garages.
- Gotts Court Garage (25 Calvert Street) is a 5-minute walk from the theatre, while Calvert Street Garage (19 St. John’s Street) is a 7-minute walk away.
- Hillman Garage (150 Gorman Street) – freshly renovated and about ten minutes away.
- Accessibility Tip: If you’re dropping off someone with mobility problems, drive up immediately in front of the cinema before parking. The entry is step-free, and the lobby offers seating for early comers.
Pre-Show Arrival
Because of the theatre’s small size and limited lobby space, it is preferable to come at least 30 minutes before the showtime. Early arrival allows you to check in, locate a seat, and settle down without feeling stressed. Doors normally open 30 minutes before the curtain, and seating is general admission (first-come, first-served), so coming early ensures you get the best seats.
Making a Night of It in Downtown Annapolis:
Dinner and Drinks:
Treat yourself before or after the play to one of Annapolis’ top-rated restaurants, all of which are within walking distance of the Colonial Players theatre.
- Osteria 177 (177 Main Street) is a local favourite for fine Italian cuisine, with an attractive environment and imported wines.
- If you’re looking for seafood, Carroll’s Creek Café, located only a short walk away, serves typical Maryland crab dishes and has waterfront views.
- Galway Bay Irish Restaurant (63 Maryland Avenue) provides comfortable pub ambience with full comfort meals and seasonal beverages in a historic setting.
- Level, a small plates café with distinctive appetizers and beverages, and Vin 909, a delightful restaurant in a renovated home perfect for an intimate pre-show meal, are two more options in the area.
Reservations are generally encouraged throughout the holiday season, particularly on weekends. Most establishments accept online reservations via OpenTable or their websites.
Holiday Walk
Take some additional time after the show ends to unwind and wonder at the magic of Annapolis’ Christmas lights. Wreaths, lit storefronts, and spectacular decorations adorn Main Street and Maryland Avenue.
Nightly lights will continue into December. On December 4, 11, and 18, stores stay open late to provide music, food, and reduced pricing during Midnight Madness. Make sure to plan your visit around this event.
The Christmas walk is the perfect way to finish off a night at the theatre, whether you’re picking up a hot beverage, window shopping, or just relaxing in the atmosphere.
More than merely a performance, the Colonial Players’ A Christmas Carol has become a beloved holiday tradition in Annapolis.
Conclusion: A Timeless Tale
Colonial Players’ A Christmas Carol has been a crowd-pleaser for almost four decades because of its modest staging, imaginative interpretations, and deep community ties. Rooted in the heart of historic Annapolis, this performance transforms a timeless tale into an intimate adventure that fosters unity among families, encourages self-reflection, and celebrates the joy of the holiday season. The combination of a small theatre, a classic tale, and a city overflowing with party spirit makes for an amazing experience every time, whether it’s your first or tenth visit.
The 2025 season tickets are moving at a breakneck pace, with several concerts almost sold out. Purchase your tickets now at https://tickets.thecolonialplayers.org/. Once you’ve booked your spot, don’t be shy about sharing your enthusiasm: which A Christmas Carol character is your favourite? Who will it be? The irritable Ebenezer Scrooge, the amiable Bob Cratchit, or the mysterious Ghost of Christmas Past? This is where the custom starts.