The beloved Christmas tale of Ebeneezer Scrooge returns to television this holiday season as "Scrooge Live" celebrates its fifth anniversary. This year, the event promises not only entertainment but also aims to shine a light on the pressing issue of child poverty in the Netherlands. Broadcast live from the historic Slot Loevestein, the show will air on NPO 1 on December 22, 2024, at 20:25.
Leading the cast is Arjan Ederveen, who portrays the iconic grumpy banker, Scrooge. Ederveen, at 68 years of age, hopes to bring humor to the performance, stating, "I find it important for people to enjoy themselves and maybe even have a laugh as they eat their Christmas treats." The comedic twist is something he feels is necessary, especially since the story, originally penned by Charles Dickens, carries heavy themes of regret and redemption.
Alongside Ederveen is Susan Visser, 59, who takes on the role of the Ghost of Christmas Past. Reflecting on her character, she describes it as "a sort of therapist for Scrooge," helping him confront his past mistakes and guiding him toward redemption. Visser emphasizes the importance of providing light-hearted moments amid the more serious narrative, echoing Ederveen's sentiments, saying, "He is so funny. I was already his fan and find it amazing to experience him as my colleague now."
The show will once again collaborate with the Nationaal Fonds Kinderhulp to raise funds for children without basic necessities. This year, the focus will be on ensuring every child has access to their own warm bed, which many children across the country lack. Ederveen expressed his hopes for donations by saying, "Every child deserves their own bed!"
During previous broadcasts, the event has raised awareness about various aspects of child poverty with each edition highlighting urgent issues. Jacqueline Kremer-Duzijn from the Kinderhulp Foundation notes the grim reality, stating, "Hundreds of thousands of children grow up under stress due to poverty. They lack items considered necessary by many—like schoolbooks, quality bicycles, even proper winter clothing." This year is no exception, and viewers are encouraged to contribute financially, ensuring as many children as possible have essentials they deserve.
Carrie ten Napel, who has been the show's reporter for the past five years, has witnessed firsthand the struggles many families face. During her interviews, she has met children living without beds, some even have to sleep on mats on cold floors. "I am shocked every year by the heartbreaking situations I come across. It’s hard to believe this is happening here, in our own country," she remarked.
Scrooge Live will not only entertain but also serves as an appeal for viewers to reflect on their own social responsibility. The aim is to awaken compassion among viewers, spurred on by the timeless message of Dickens' tale: share your wealth and spread kindness. "After witnessing Scrooge Live, I hope people will become kinder to one another," adds Visser.
The event promises star-studded performances, with other notable cast members including Francis van Broekhuizen, Leny Breederveld, and Kees Hulst, alongside the storytelling by Lisa Loeb, making this anniversary edition one to watch. Fans of holiday programming can look forward to vibrant performances and the ennobling spirit of Christmas.
This theatrical celebration is set against the backdrop of the scenic Slot Loevestein, adding to the show's charm and heritage. The production team is committed to ensuring the atmosphere is both festive and poignant, aligning with the heartwarming yet cautionary message of Dickens' classic tale, penned over 180 years ago.
With the show just days away, audiences are urged to tune in and take part not just as spectators but as potential contributors to improving the lives of children who need it most. The story teaches the value of generosity and the impact of collective effort, inviting viewers to open their hearts and their wallets for the greater good.
Fans can view Scrooge Live this Sunday, December 22, starting at 20:25 on NPO 1, and become part of this year's inspiring mission to support those less fortunate, embodying the true spirit of Christmas.
