A new four-episode podcast is delving into the backstory of Ebenezer Scrooge from the classic “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens. The podcast, titled “Scrooge: A Christmas Carol,” can be accessed for free at scroogepodcast.com. It focuses on themes of redemption, mercy, grace, and compassion, shedding light on how Scrooge became the miserable miser he is known as in the classic tale.
The podcast offers a deeper look into Scrooge’s background, including an exploration of his long-lost love, Elizabeth. Notably, the character of Tiny Tim only makes a brief appearance in the podcast.
The cast of the podcast includes actors such as Sean Astin, John Rhys-Davies, and Juliet Mills. It is not a word-for-word reading of the original Dickens’ story, but rather an immersive audio presentation that aims to depict Scrooge’s transformation from selfishness to generosity. The producers have designed the podcast with the intention of involving the whole family.
Joe Paulo, president and CEO of Hope Media Group, which is distributing the podcast, emphasized the reflective and celebratory aspects of the podcast. He highlighted the opportunity for families to engage in moments of reflection during the holiday season.
According to Mr. Paulo, Scrooge’s journey is a universal story of redemption and transformation. He sees it as a portrayal of mankind’s potential to evolve from their past shortcomings.
Mark Ramsey, the creator and director of the podcast, pointed out that the program offers a different experience compared to the popular podcast genres of interviews, true crime, news, or sports. He emphasized the immersive nature of the dramatic presentation.
The podcast provides a “faith-forward” retelling of the classic tale, with the sounds of Victorian London serving as the backdrop. The creators sought to create an immersive experience that offers a new way of engaging with the story.
The podcast also presents an opportunity for parents to share the story with their children, providing a unique learning experience through audio media. Child psychologist Cynthia Ulrich Tobias highlighted the benefits of audio learning, citing its potential to stimulate imagination and provoke meaningful conversations among family members, especially during the busy holiday season.
