McKinney Repertory Opens A Christmas Carol, Community Celebrates

McKinney Repertory Theatre opened its annual staging of A Christmas Carol on Friday, November 21, with an eleven performance run scheduled at the McKinney Performing Arts Center. The production uses the one hour adaptation by local playwright Dr. Andrew Harris, is directed by Jennifer Lee and assistant directed by Marilyn Latham. Shows include matinees and evening performances across three holiday weekends, and one performance will include American Sign Language interpretation to improve access for Deaf and hard of hearing residents.

The production is staffed largely by local volunteer actors, reinforcing the theater company s role as a community hub and a place for local talent to participate in civic life. The run coincides with downtown holiday programming, drawing audiences to shops and restaurants and providing a modest seasonal boost for nearby small businesses. Ticket prices and box office contact information are available through McKinney Repertory Theatre.

From a public health perspective, seasonal cultural gatherings bring both benefits and considerations. Live theater can support mental health, social connection and cultural inclusion during a time of year when loneliness often rises. At the same time, public health officials generally note that larger indoor gatherings can increase transmission of seasonal respiratory viruses, making it important for patrons to follow common sense precautions and for venues to maintain good ventilation and clear communication about accommodations and safety policies.

The production also comes as the theater prepares for major renovations to its venue in January. McKinney Repertory plans to return to the Courtroom Theater in November 2026. Those renovations may temporarily alter programming patterns and access for regular patrons, especially older adults and people with mobility needs, so continued emphasis on accessible performances and advance notice of changes will matter to families and community members who rely on consistent arts access.

Overall, this year s A Christmas Carol underscores how local arts programming intersects with public health and social equity. By centering accessibility through ASL interpretation and community participation through volunteer casting, McKinney Repertory is positioning the holiday tradition as both a cultural and civic resource for Collin County residents.