Appalachian Ebeneezer is a new revision of a script first developed in the 1970s. Created for and by the Oregon Repertory Theatre ensemble, a professional CETA-funded theatre in Eugene, Oregon, it became an annual staple of the company. Loved by the community, the play was the best income producer for this theatre from 1977 through 1980. In 2003, the show was produced in Portland, Oregon by Artists Repertory Theatre, directed by Allen Nause; it became the second largest grossing production in ART’s (then) 20 year history.

“I was looking for something other than the traditional Dickens story and find this version very effective.  It adapts beautifully to the Appalachian culture and is enhanced by the poignant, traditional music of the region. While still maintaining the original story of Scrooge’s transformation, it becomes an American story that also has the powerful social commentary that Dickens intended.  All of this is in the context of the ’30’s depression era struggle for a better life.  It has become my favorite stage version – and I have seen many!” 

— Allen Nause, artistic director for 25 years at Artists Repertory Theatre, Portland, Oregon

Current Revision

This new version is currently under revision based on the 2017 reading by professional actors and musicians from the Portland area (many of whom appeared in the successful 2003 Artists Repertory Theatre production), audience members and writers. We seek a relationship with a theatre experienced in new play development for either a staged reading or a full production of the revised work. Rändi Douglas will attend to production revisions; she is an experienced actress and director and understands the process.

Original Version Production History

Never broadly released or promoted, the production has been kept alive by people who interacted with it in its first production in Eugene, OR or at the staged reading in Seattle.

Professional Theatre Productions

• Artists Repertory Theatre, 2003, Portland, OR, directed by Allen Nause
• Arden Theatre Company, Philadelphia, PA, 1990, directed by Aaron Posner
• Empty Space Theatre, Seattle, 1978, staged reading directed by M. Burke Walker
• Oregon Repertory Theatre, additional productions in 1978, 1979, and 1987
• Oregon Repertory Theatre, 1977, directed by Randi Douglas