Broadway productions of Charles Dickens’ classic Christmas tale A Christmas Carol tend to run about two hours long, with an intermission. This includes previews, regular performances, and special holiday performances. Let’s take a closer look at the typical length and running time for the show.
Typical Length of A Christmas Carol on Broadway
Most Broadway productions of A Christmas Carol are split into two acts, with an intermission between them. Each act tends to run about an hour long. Some key running times for recent productions include:
- 2018 production with Campbell Scott – Act 1: 58 minutes, Act 2: 63 minutes
- 2017 production with Jim Dale – Act 1: 55 minutes, Act 2: 60 minutes
- 1994 production with Tim Curry – Act 1: 55 minutes, Act 2: 65 minutes
As you can see, total running times tend to fall right around two hours. The 2018 production featuring Campbell Scott clocked in at 2 hours and 1 minute total. Other productions have landed in the same 120-125 minute range.
Matinee and Evening Performances
The length and start/end times for A Christmas Carol on Broadway remains fairly consistent across matinee and evening performances. There may be slight variations from one show to the next, but overall the timing is the same.
A typical timeline looks like:
- Matinee starts at 2pm, ends around 4:05pm with intermission
- Evening performance starts at 8pm, ends around 10:05pm with intermission
Occasionally an evening performance time will shift slightly to 7pm or 8:30pm. But the overall running time of about 2 hours stays the same.
Duration of Previews
Prior to opening night, many Broadway shows have preview performances. This gives the cast a chance to run through the show on stage in front of a live audience.
During previews, the show’s running time is generally the same length it will be once the show officially opens. That means for a musical like A Christmas Carol, preview performances tend to run about 2 hours long.
There may be minor tweaks to scenes or transitions during previews, but major changes to the script and score are uncommon once previews begin.
Added Length for Holiday Performances
A Christmas Carol often has special holiday performances scheduled in December closer to Christmas. These shows may include some extra holiday carols, songs, or other additions.
For example, the 2018 production with Campbell Scott featured an added musical number during holiday shows. As a result, the running time for these performances was slightly longer:
- Holiday Show Act 1: 65 minutes
- Holiday Show Act 2: 63 minutes
- Total with holiday additions: 2 hours and 8 minutes
So while holiday performances may clock in at 5-10 minutes longer than regular shows, the overall duration remains right around 2 hours.
Summary of A Christmas Carol’s Broadway Run Time
In summary, here are some key details about the length of A Christmas Carol on Broadway:
- Total running time is typically 2 hours, including a 15-20 minute intermission
- Act 1 tends to be 55-65 minutes, Act 2 is usually 60-65 minutes
- Matinee and evening shows follow a similar timeline
- Preview performances match the full running time
- Holiday shows may run 5-10 minutes longer with added content
While minor timing variations can occur from one performance to the next, audiences can expect a full Broadway production of A Christmas Carol to have a total running time of right around 2 hours. That time frame has been consistent across productions over many holiday seasons on the Great White Way.
A Christmas Carol – Broadway Ticket Information
For those interested in seeing A Christmas Carol on Broadway, here is some helpful information on show tickets:
Purchase Tickets in Advance
It’s highly recommended to purchase tickets well in advance of your chosen show date. As a very popular holiday musical, A Christmas Carol often sells out quickly. Buying early ensures you’ll get seats together.
Tickets Available on Multiple Websites
You can purchase A Christmas Carol Broadway tickets through the show’s official website, Ticketmaster, Telecharge, Broadway.com, and other major ticket sellers. Compare prices across sites.
Seating Locations and Ticket Prices Vary
There are over 1,500 seats in the various Broadway theaters that host A Christmas Carol. Prices and seat locations vary:
Seat Location | Average Ticket Price |
---|---|
Front Mezzanine | $125-175 |
Mid Mezzanine | $80-120 |
Rear Mezzanine/Balcony | $50-75 |
Rear Balcony | $30-50 |
Premium seats in the front rows of the orchestra can be $200 or more. Use seating charts to find the best options for your budget.
Lottery and Rush Tickets Are Available
For sold out shows, you may be able to get heavily discounted rush tickets by entering the in-person lottery, or waiting in the rush ticket line on the day of the show.
Rush tickets typically go on sale 2 hours before curtain and are first come, first served. You can score tickets for $40 or less usually.
Student, Military, Senior Discounts
Check the show’s website for special discount performance dates and promo codes. Groups like students, seniors 65+, and military can often get reduced price tickets by showing valid ID.
Discounts typically range from 20-50% off depending on the seats. Availability is limited for these special offers.
FAQs – A Christmas Carol on Broadway
Where is A Christmas Carol performed on Broadway?
The musical has been performed at various Broadway theaters over the years, often at the Lyceum Theatre or Madison Square Garden Theater. Upcoming 2023 productions will be staged at the Nederlander Theatre.
What are the exact showtimes?
Exact curtain times vary, but typical times are:
- Matinees – 2pm curtain / ends around 4:05pm
- Evenings – 8pm curtain / ends around 10:05pm
Check the show’s website for exact times on your chosen date.
How long is the intermission?
The intermission typically lasts 15-20 minutes, giving audiences a quick break between Act 1 and Act 2.
How is the musical different from the book?
While staying faithful to the classic story, the musical incorporates several lively song and dance numbers not found in the Dickens novella. The show utilizes more exaggerated, vaudeville-style theatrics to bring the ghosts to life on stage.
Why See A Christmas Carol on Broadway
Experiencing A Christmas Carol on Broadway is a must for any theater fan during the holiday season. Here are just a few great reasons to see this heartwarming production:
- Classic story brought to life with colorful sets, costumes, and effects
- Catchy musical numbers that get you into the Christmas spirit
- A chance to see Broadway stars in iconic roles like Scrooge
- Perfect outing for family and friends during the holidays
- Uplifting message about generosity and kindness
With its festive songs, Victorian sets, and timeless message, A Christmas Carol on Broadway is the perfect theatrical way to celebrate the season.
Final Thoughts
A Christmas Carol has become a beloved holiday tradition for many theatergoers in New York and for good reason. At around 2 hours from start to finish, the Broadway musical captures the magic and heartwarming story of the Dickens classic in an entertaining and family-friendly way. The intermission halfway through allows audiences a chance to stretch before enjoying Act 2. Whether you’re looking to get in the Christmas mood or experience a show the whole family can enjoy, A Christmas Carol is sure to please.