A holiday classic is getting an irreverent makeover as Drunk Christmas Carol returns to Phoenix for a limited engagement this season. Presented by the Drunk Shakespeare Society, the comedy show runs November 12, 2026, through January 3, 2027, at The Rose Theatre in downtown Phoenix.
The 90-minute performance puts a boozy spin on Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, with one daring actor taking five shots of whiskey before attempting to retell the beloved holiday story. As the miser at the center of the tale encounters three ghosts, the rest of the sober cast attempts to keep the performance on track, even as improvisation and unexpected antics send the story in unpredictable directions.
“We’re bringing a little holiday mischief to a story audiences know and love,” said David Hudsom, co-creator of the Drunk Shakespeare Society. “With an unpredictable performance and plenty of opportunities for the audience to join the fun, every night is a different way to celebrate the season.”
Audience participation is part of the experience, making each performance a little different. The production combines theatrical comedy, festive storytelling and plenty of holiday mayhem for an alternative to traditional seasonal entertainment.
The experience also includes a menu of holiday-inspired cocktails, with options such as The Caroler’s Kiss, Three Spirits Punch and The Sleigh Queen. Cocktails and snacks are available for purchase during all performances, giving guests the opportunity to sip something festive while watching the story unfold. For those looking to make the evening extra special, the North Pole Royalty VIP package offers a more extravagant experience.
Priced at $500 for two people, the package includes seating on a hand-carved throne, a bottle of champagne, two handcrafted cocktails, holiday treats and the opportunity to influence the performance. Tickets start at $49. The show is for audiences ages 21 and older. For more information, visit drunkchristmas.com.
