What to watch: Midland Community Theatre (MCT) welcomes the community to its production of A Christmas Carol, opening Friday, Nov. 28. The beloved tale of Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformation unfolds in a family-friendly stage adaptation, sure to spread warmth and festive spirit across Midland.

Why it matters: Founded in 1946, MCT has been the cornerstone of community theatre in Midland for nearly 80 years, producing musicals, dramas, and comedies. As the holiday season begins, this production brings a timeless story of redemption, compassion, and community. MCT’s pay-what-you-can performance is Sunday, Dec. 7, at 2:30 p.m., making the theater accessible even for tighter budgets.

The big picture: From the moment the curtain rises, audiences can expect a stirring journey from cold-hearted selfishness to heartfelt generosity, culminating in a Christmas morning renewed by goodwill and joy. Experience Scrooge’s turbulent journey through past, present, and future, all featuring live music and choreographed dance numbers.

Midland Community Theatre’s relationship with A Christmas Carol stretches back to 1977, when the company staged its first production of the Dickens classic. What began as a single seasonal offering soon grew into a holiday tradition, now performing its 18th rendition on the MCT stage. The sets used over the past 30 years are the sets MCT still uses to this day.

What they’re saying: “The first time we performed in ‘A Christmas Carol’ with MCT was in 2002,” Deb and Jerry Tilley told the Permian Press. “It was very special because it was the first time our whole family was in a show together. We’re playing the Fezziwigs for the 7th time this year. We’ve had so many friends in the show over the years, and have had the privilege of watching so many kids grow up!”

The bottom line: Whether you’re carrying on a holiday tradition or discovering live theatre for the first time, A Christmas Carol offers a bright, hopeful way to begin the season. Visit the MCT website for tickets and showtimes.