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This show is sure to get even the Scroogiest of Scrooges into the Christmas spirit.

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A Christmas Carol is one of those stories we know by heart. Whether through Dickens’
novel, Disney adaptations, lavish stage versions, or The Muppets, we all remember the tale of the unfortunate man whose generosity is unlocked by three well-timed ghosts. But what happens when Ebenezer Scrooge is absolutely, unequivocally hammered? A Pissedmas Carol, currently playing at the Leicester Square Theatre, answers that question with two hours of laughter, improvisation, and festive chaos.

Directed by Katy Baker, written by Lewis Ironside, and produced by James Murfitt and
Johanna Rigg, A Pissedmas Carol delivers exactly what it promises– and then some. The
concept is simple and brilliant: one performer gets drunk onstage every night, rotating so no actor drinks more than four times a month. The result is a show that is never the same twice. Slurred lines, unexpected tangents, and delightfully inappropriate jokes, but the production never collapses into mess. Dickens’ plot acts as a loose guiding star rather than a rigid framework– an anchor amid the madness– allowing the cast to riff, respond, and rescue the story in real time. With panto-style audience interventions, reworked pop songs, and just enough interaction to keep things unpredictable, it’s a night guaranteed to leave adult audiences thoroughly merry.

Drunken theatre often benefits from lowered expectations, with audiences happy to watch one battered performer derail the evening while the rest scramble to recover. What makes Sh!tfaced Theatre’s A Pissedmas Carol stand out is the consistently high standard of performance beneath the chaos. The entire cast– Ashley Gerlach, Dan Quirke, Hari Kang, Hal Hilman, Issy Wroe Wright, and Alice Merivale– are sharp improvisers and confident singers, working tirelessly to keep the show afloat. On this night, a particularly inebriated Scrooge (Ashley Gerlach) gave them plenty to contend with, and watching the ensemble think on their feet was half the joy.

Dan Quirke deserves special mention for exceptional multi-rolling, delivering some of the evening’s biggest laughs as the Ghost of Christmas Present, a panto-Dame Mrs. Fezziwig (who took an audience member for a husband… and later a turkey), and Miss “Butcher”, the butcher. Charlotte Brooke, the musical director and onstage pianist, is the unsung hero of the show– a superb listener and rhythmic backbone who adapts effortlessly to every curveball. Equally vital is James Murfitt as Charles Dickens: fantastic host, narrative referee, and the steady hand that keeps the show moving despite its many detours. The Leicester Square Theatre proves the perfect home for this festive anarchy. Mulled wine, mince pies, and an intimate auditorium enhance the communal feel, while the Christmas-drenched set, sparkling costumes, clever props, and effective lighting create a warm, celebratory atmosphere. Occasional puppet appearances are an unexpected and delightful bonus.
Ultimately, A Pissedmas Carol is an absolute joy: silly, skilful, and full of genuine theatrical craft beneath the booze-soaked surface. Bring a friend, grab a drink, and embrace the chaos– it is Christmas, after all.