Actor plays Charles Dickens: a driven and successful writer, but an unhappy man. He remembers Christmas as a miserable experience from his childhood, until he realizes the sacrifice his Father made for him back then.

Actor plays John Dickens: father to Charles, he spends Charles' money, much to Charles' dismay, but he loves his son and made the sacrifices necessary for Charles to grow up to be the famous author he is. Doublings include Peddler and Mr. Trotwood.

Actor plays Tim Trotwood: a fictional character in versions of the Christmas story Charles is trying to write. Tim works all day without complaint to support his family, and is very hurt when the girl he loves tells her he is too poor to marry. Doublings include Young Charles Dickens, Singboard Boy, and Barber's Assistant.

Actor plays Chapman: Charles' publisher. A man almost as unhappy as Charles, he always worries about money and his public image and lacks the Christmas spirit. Doublings include Hargreaves, Prison Guard, and Barber.

Actress plays Young Woman: a figment of Charles' imagination, she is sweet but stubborn in her guidance of Charles to the story and happiness he is looking for. Doublings include Orphan Lady, Rachael, and Flower Girl.

Actress plays Mrs. Furnival: the innkeeper's wife and Charles' assistant. She is a caring woman who worries that Charles's overexerts himself and treats him like a son. Doublings include Mrs. Trotwood and Mrs. Dickens