Leitrim Actor Michael McLoughlin takes on Scrooge in Christmas production

A familiar face on the local theatre scene, actor Michael McLoughlin from Manorhamilton is preparing to take on one of literature’s most famous characters when the Breffni Players bring A Christmas Carol to Carrick-on-Shannon next month. Michael will step into the shoes of Ebenezer Scrooge in the Charles Dickens classic, adapted for the stage by John Mortimer and directed by Sinéad Quinn.

The production, featuring a cast of approximately 40 performers, will take place at St Mary’s Hall on Friday, November 27 and Saturday, November 28, at 8pm. Speaking to the Leitrim Observer, Michael described the role as both rewarding and demanding, particularly because of the transformation his character undergoes.

“It’s a really challenging part,” he said. “At the beginning, he’s got his issues, he’s angry, and he’s angry at the world, and because of his upbringing, and that’s all explained in the play.”

Although Scrooge is remembered as a miserable, money-obsessed old man, Michael believes there is considerably more depth to the character than audiences might initially realise. “People think they know the story, but they don’t,” he said. “There’s a reason why he is miserable. And the play kind of explains that. Gives an insight into it.”

At its heart, Michael believes A Christmas Carol is a story about redemption. Following a visit from the ghost of his former business partner, Jacob Marley, Scrooge is confronted by three spirits who force him to examine his past, present and possible future.

Through these encounters, he gradually begins to recognise the consequences of his selfishness and discovers the possibility of changing his ways.

“It’s a play about redemption,” Michael explained. “It’s great for an actor because your character progression is defined and you have to go from being a bastard to being a reasonably nice guy.” While Dickens' story is set in Victorian England, Michael believes its underlying message about wealth, poverty and social responsibility remains remarkably relevant today.

He points in particular to Scrooge’s treatment of his poorly paid clerk, Bob Cratchit, whose family finds happiness in Christmas despite having very little money. “It’s very relevant to today, what’s happening in the world,” Michael said.

“You have these industrialists, these rich elites. Taking no social responsibility whatsoever.” For Michael, the contrast between Scrooge's wealth and the Cratchit family's optimism remains one of the most powerful elements of the story.

Michael's own journey into acting began in Dublin during the 1990s, when he completed a two-year theatre course covering acting, stage management and other aspects of production. He subsequently became involved in fringe theatre and semi-professional productions before returning west around 25 years ago.

Family responsibilities meant acting took a back seat while he raised his children. However, an invitation from fellow performer Siobhán Talbot eventually brought him back to the stage. He has now been involved with the Breffni Players for approximately 15 years.

Looking back on his training and experience, Michael believes the most important responsibility of an actor is understanding the character rather than simply memorising dialogue. “You need to know the lines, not just be able to say them or turn them out, but you have to know the meaning, what’s behind it, you know? The depth of it.”

He also has high praise for director Sinéad Quinn, with whom he has worked on numerous productions over the years. Michael says she allows actors room to explore their characters while providing guidance on what works and what needs improvement. “She gives the actors their head, basically,” he explained. “She’ll tell you what works and what doesn’t.”

The upcoming production is particularly ambitious for the Breffni Players, with a large ensemble cast, a choir, young performers and festive dance sequences. Among the scenes Michael is looking forward to is the lively Christmas party hosted by Mr and Mrs Fezziwig, bringing music, dancing and celebration to the stage.

Rehearsals are already taking place three nights a week, with Michael admitting that the demanding schedule and substantial amount of dialogue require considerable preparation. He revealed that his greatest fear on stage is not facing an audience but forgetting his lines. “My greatest fear is dropping lines,” he admitted.

The role of Scrooge presents its own challenges, particularly in scenes involving the silent Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come, where Michael must carry much of the dialogue himself. Nevertheless, he is looking forward to bringing the famous character to life in what he describes as a genuine community production.

“It’s going to be a really good community show,” he said. “It’s a real community thing.” With the production bringing together performers of different ages and experience levels, the Breffni Players hope to attract strong local audiences for the two-night run. A Christmas Carol, presented by the Breffni Players, takes place at St Mary’s Hall, Carrick-on-Shannon, on Friday, November 27 and Saturday, November 28, at 8pm. Tickets are available through www.thedock.ie.