One More Dream 'Til Broadway: Why 'The Muppet Christmas Carol' Belongs on Stage
by Chris Peterson
Every holiday season, as snowflakes begin to fall and decorations light up the streets, my thoughts drift back to one timeless masterpiece that has become as essential to Christmas as mistletoe and eggnog: The Muppet Christmas Carol. This cherished film, first released in 1992, is not just a retelling of Charles Dickens’ classic story but a brilliant combination of humor, heart, and haunting melodies that only the Muppets could deliver. Yet, every year, as I hum "One More Sleep ‘Til Christmas" or chuckle at Rizzo’s antics, I find myself longing for something more: a Broadway adaptation.
The very idea of The Muppet Christmas Carol on Broadway totally works. Consider the success of The Lion King, Shrek the Musical, and even A Christmas Carol in its myriad theatrical forms. But what sets The Muppet Christmas Carol apart is its unique fusion of Dickensian tradition with the comedic chaos of Kermit, Miss Piggy, and Gonzo. It’s a blend that has the potential to delight audiences of all ages, creating a theatrical experience that is both nostalgic and refreshing.
One of the strongest arguments for adapting this beloved film is the music. Paul Williams’ stunning score is already steeped in theatricality, with songs that could easily become show-stopping numbers on stage. The opening track, “Scrooge,” is practically begging for an ensemble of Victorian townsfolk to come alive under the bright lights of a Broadway marquee. Imagine the soaring harmonies of “Bless Us All” filling a grand theatre or the wistful beauty of “When Love Is Gone,” restored to its rightful place in the narrative (and yes, I’m firmly on Team “When Love Is Gone”). These songs already possess the emotional depth and narrative drive necessary for a Broadway score; they simply need a stage to call home.
Then, there’s the cast. The Muppets’ irreverent humor and heartwarming charm are tailor-made for a theatrical adaptation. With innovative puppetry and creative staging—hallmarks of Broadway—characters like Kermit’s Bob Cratchit and Miss Piggy’s Emily Cratchit could leap from screen to stage with ease. Modern Broadway has proven its ability to incorporate puppetry seamlessly, thanks to shows like Avenue Q and War Horse. Imagine the possibilities of seeing Gonzo and Rizzo narrating live, interacting with both actors and audience members, breaking the fourth wall in a way that only they can.
Of course, there’s the challenge of translating such a visually rich and beloved film into a live experience. But isn’t Broadway the perfect place to rise to that challenge? The creative minds behind productions like Harry Potter and the Cursed Child and Hadestown have already shown us how to conjure theatrical magic. A Broadway version of The Muppet Christmas Carol could feature dazzling set pieces, like a foggy London town square or the chilling lair of the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come. The ghosts themselves—ethereal yet playful—could be realized through a mix of puppetry, projection, and lighting effects that captivate and awe.
But we got close once. Back in 2013, Disney put together a test production with Peter & the Starcatcher director Alex Timbers at the New Amsterdam Theatre. The private but elaborate presentation included sets, musical numbers, and more than 85 Muppets. So clearly, there were creative minds thinking the same thing as me.
This adaptation wouldn’t just be a gift to lifelong fans of the film. It would introduce The Muppet Christmas Carol to a new generation of theatergoers, many of whom might be experiencing the story for the first time. Dickens’ tale of redemption and compassion is evergreen, but the Muppets’ spin adds a levity and warmth that makes it uniquely accessible. A holiday Broadway run would ensure that this remarkable story, with its quirky, felt-covered cast, continues to resonate for years to come.
As I sit here dreaming of this possibility, I’m filled with hope. Hope that one day, Broadway will host the “lovely holiday turkey” we all deserve.
Until then, I’ll be here, watching The Muppet Christmas Carol for the umpteenth time, dreaming of the day I can see Kermit’s floppy green legs standing center stage, singing “One More Sleep ‘Til Christmas” under the glow of Broadway lights. Surely, that would be the most sensational, inspirational, celebrational, Muppetational Christmas gift of all.