Bryan Cranston Shines in Unique Live Production of A Christmas Carol Benefiting the Ed Asner Family Center
On December 17, 2026, Bryan Cranston is set to take center stage as Ebenezer Scrooge in an extraordinary live reading of Charles Dickens’ beloved classic, "A Christmas Carol," hosted at the Garry Marshall Theatre in Burbank, California. This unique one-night-only event is particularly meaningful as it benefits the Ed Asner Family Center (TEAFC), an organization dedicated to supporting neurodivergent individuals and their families.
The performance will only accommodate a small audience of 75 guests, ensuring an intimate and engaging experience. Each ticket purchased will not only grant access to the event but will also contribute significantly to the Ed Asner Family Center’s mission of providing arts and enrichment programs, mental health services, and community support for neurodivergent individuals. For those who can’t attend in person, the performance will be streamed live worldwide via Broadway Unlocked, extending the reach of this magical evening.
Cranston will lead an impressive lineup of talent, including Jean Smart as the Ghost of Christmas Past, Noah Wyle as Fred, Connor Tomlinson as Bob Cratchit, and many other stars who will be part of this engaging presentation. Hosted by Tom Bergeron, the evening promises to honor the contributions of Vicki Dummer, Warner Bros. Discovery’s Head of Current Programming, acknowledging her dedication to inclusive storytelling and community advocacy.
Matthew Asner, Co-Founder and President of TEAFC, expressed his excitement about the event, stating, "This year feels like the beginning of something very special." He highlighted the exceptional collaboration of artists coming together for such a vital cause, saying, "Having Bryan Cranston, Jean Smart, Noah Wyle, and this incredible company performing A Christmas Carol together in a 75-seat theater is pretty magical."
The event will unfold in a radio-play style with live music and the intriguing presence of a live Foley artist to enhance the storytelling experience. Attendees can expect a festive atmosphere complete with pre- and post-show receptions featuring seasonal food and drinks, along with a specially curated, A Christmas Carol-themed VIP gift bag, making this night even more memorable.
Navah Paskowitz-Asner, the Co-Founder of TEAFC, remarked, "This production is more than a holiday tradition; it's a gathering of community, love, and acceptance." She emphasized that the Center thrives as a place where neurodivergent individuals are celebrated and provided with resources to flourish creatively and socially.
The Ed Asner Family Center was established from personal experiences and dedication to supporting neurodiversity, and it continues to expand its reach into the community through various programs. They employ autistic self-advocates, ensuring that the voices and experiences of neurodivergent individuals shape the Center’s offerings. This event exemplifies their commitment to fostering a supportive and understanding environment for those it serves.
In the lead-up to the event, a special 24-hour presale for streaming tickets will launch on October 24, 2026. For just $20, audiences can secure their spot to experience A Christmas Carol live, with standard tickets available afterward for $25. Those wishing to attend in person can purchase tickets for $500, limited to just 75 guests, reinforcing the exclusivity of this special evening.
For details on purchasing tickets and further information about the Ed Asner Family Center, interested parties can visit www.teafc.org.
In conclusion, this live performance promises not only to be an enchanting experience but also a powerful way to contribute to a cause that significantly impacts the neurodivergent community. Freeing the festive spirit while supporting a noble mission makes the evening truly remarkable, showcasing the beauty of theatre intertwined with philanthropy.