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Dickens' Haunts: Actor's Special Carol at Castle
4 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Actor plays dual roles in a festive classic production.
- The play is set at Rockingham Castle, visited by Dickens.
- The production highlights the original ghost-story tone.

A student actor describes performing "A Christmas Carol" at Rockingham Castle as a "very special" event, highlighting the venue's connection to Charles Dickens. Ellen McDermott, a third-year acting student, will portray young Scrooge and Fred in the University of Northampton's production at the historic castle near Corby.
Dickens is known to have visited Rockingham Castle, and it is believed to have influenced elements of his novel "Bleak House." McDermott shared her excitement about bringing Dickens' legacy to life in such a unique setting, especially given the play's emphasis on the original story's ghost-story atmosphere.
The cast has explored the castle, viewing Dickens' chair and letters, and even the space where he performed for staff. Harry Quinn, who plays Ebenezer Scrooge, praised the castle's beauty and the intimate performance space, noting the joyful adaptation process.




