For 15 years, Darrell Rodenbaugh has helped make Scrooge the Musical a beloved Plano tradition
Every November, as the air cools and holiday lights start to twinkle across Plano, Darrell begins what he jokingly calls his “molting season.” The beard grows, the scripts come out and for the 15th straight year he prepares to bring Scrooge the Musical to life.
This December marks his 125th performance as the famously grumpy character turned kindhearted hero, a role that has become as much a part of his own holiday story as the original Dickens tale.
Becoming Scrooge And Loving Every Minute Of It
Darrell first took the stage as Scrooge when North Texas Performing Arts launched its community production 15 years ago. What started as a small, board-driven experiment has grown into Plano’s longest-running musical holiday tradition, now featuring a cast of 150.
Over the years, he has learned every nuance of the role, but his enthusiasm never fades. “I look forward to it every year,” he says. “The music, the camaraderie, the joy of getting back together with friends.”
Darrell doesn’t just show up for his scenes, he rarely misses a rehearsal even when he’s not called. “I just love hearing the music,” he says. “It fills you with joy.”
Deanna Green and Darrell Rodenbaugh, photo courtesy of North Texas Performing Arts
A Show Built On Family And Community
Part of what keeps Darrell coming back is the sense of togetherness that surrounds Scrooge. Each season includes parents and children sharing the stage, sometimes entire families performing side by side.
This year’s cast features former Plano City Council member Shelby Williams as Bob Cratchit with his daughter Kate as Tiny Tim. “We have more than 40 families represented,” Darrell says proudly. “Some have been with us nearly every year.”
He recalls one audience member who has brought her grandchildren to the show for eight years in a row. “Now they’re teenagers, taller than me,” he says with a laugh. “She told me this is what gets them into the Christmas spirit. That’s when you know you’re doing something right.”
The Energy Behind The Scenes
When Darrell isn’t on stage, he is serving as the volunteer CEO of North Texas Performing Arts. Under his leadership, the nonprofit has expanded to six cities, launched new video and film programs and developed productions for deaf and disabled actors.
Still, Scrooge holds a special place in his heart. “Some people go to The Nutcracker every year,” he says. “Others come to Scrooge. It’s the same idea, something that connects you to the season and to each other.”
Darrell Rodenbaugh, photo courtesy of North Texas Performing Arts
A Fresh Take On A Classic
Directed by Mike Mazur, now in his eighth year at the helm, this year’s Scrooge the Musical includes new songs, updated choreography and fresh scenic touches inspired by Dickens’ London. The show rotates four casts throughout the two-week run, giving every performance its own unique mix of faces and energy.
“It’s controlled chaos,” Darrell laughs. “But it’s also magical.”
Giving Back Through “Gift To The Community” Nights
Darrell lights up most when talking about the two Gift to the Community performances, where NTPA offers free tickets to veterans and families served by local nonprofits. “We’ve had families who were sleeping in their cars the night before,” he says softly. “For many, this is the only Christmas gift they’ll get. It’s our favorite performance every year.”
Show Details
When: December 10–21, 2025
Showtimes: 2:15 pm and 7:15 pm
Where:
• Courtyard Theater (Dec. 10–14)
• Rodenbaugh Theatre, Willow Bend Center of the Arts (Dec. 17–21)
Tickets: $13 advance, $15 at the door, $25 premium seating
Special shows: Gift to the Community nights Dec. 10 and 17; ASL-interpreted performance Dec. 20 at 2:15 pm
Website: ntpa.org/event/scrooge
Why It Still Matters
After 15 years, Darrell has no plans to hang up the top hat. “Scrooge’s message of redemption and starting over never gets old,” he says. “It reminds us that tomorrow can always be a better day.”
So this season, when the curtain rises and the familiar opening notes play, Plano audiences will see more than a Christmas classic. They will see a man who has made it his mission to bring joy, laughter and a little holiday magic to his community, one “Bah, humbug” at a time.
Photo courtesy of North Texas Performing Arts
Plan Your Visit
Experience Scrooge the Musical this December at the Willow Bend Center of the Arts or Courtyard Theater in Plano. Tickets and information are available at ntpa.org/event/scrooge or by calling 972-424-4893.
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