Milwaukee Repertory Theater’s annual production of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol has become Milwaukee’s favorite holiday tradition. With its timeless message of hope and redemption, the production has been a cornerstone of The Rep’s programming for 40 years playing to over 1.5 million people. In fostering The Rep’s mission of creating positive change in the community, the A Christmas Carol Families Program raises funds for underprivileged families during the holiday season. This year we are pleased to announce that families from the United Community Center, one of our Mpact Pillar Partners, will be the A Christmas Carol Families Program recipient.

After each performance of A Christmas Carol, cast members will collect money from patrons for families from the United Community Center that are in need this holiday season. The Rep staff volunteers will purchase and wrap gifts – including clothing, toys, household items and grocery gift cards – and then present them to the families selected by the UCC. Any funds remaining after the gifts are purchased will be donated to the United Community Center to support the excellent work they do in the community. The Rep typically raises $40,000 annually via the A Christmas Carol Family Program benefiting such organizations as Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee, Running Rebels, COA, Big Brothers Big Sisters, La Causa, Journey House, Sojourner Family Peace Center and Next Door Foundation.

“Our A Christmas Carol Families Program has become as much a tradition as the show itself.” Stated Managing Director Chad Bauman. “Over the years, The Rep staff has volunteered thousands of hours to ensure that families in need are not forgotten this holiday season. With this annual production and our amazingly generous audiences, we wish to continue the theme of hope by raising funds to support local families in need and the exceptional work the United Community Center does for our community.”

“We are thrilled to have been selected as A Christmas Carol Families program recipient—what an incredible program. We admire Milwaukee Repertory Theater for all of their efforts to make a positive impact in the community. We have been working closely with them over the last couple of years and this is just one example of the great work they’re doing.” said Ricardo Diaz, Executive Director of United Community Center. “This generous gift from Milwaukee Repertory Theater is astounding— you can’t imagine the impact it will have on families who face many hardships in our community. It will certainly ensure a happy and stress-free holiday where needs are met for clothing, recreation and food. We’re delighted to partner with The Rep on initiatives like this one that make a difference in Milwaukee.