While getting to play the mean, old miser Scrooge in A Christmas Carol, Noel White inset, is practising his hunched walk.

“I’m working on my posture because Scrooge is so closed and hunched and isolated, but later on there is a transformation and a release in him,” he tells me earnestly.

But while we all know how nasty Scrooge is, Noel is quick to defend the infamous Dickensian character being resurrected this Christmas by Creation.

“I don’t see him as a baddie really, but more of a troubled soul. He thinks he’s doing the right thing and making the right calls. It’s everyone else who is insane.

“And then he goes on this incredible journey in terms of redemption and discovery.

“So it’s a great part and opportunity for me because Scrooge is one of the big classic roles, and a baton you have to take as an actor.”

Creation looks like they’ve pulled it out of the bag again this year, although the usual venue of the Mirror Tent at the Mini plant, has been spurned in favour of The North Wall in Summertown.

So isn’t it quite frightening for a festive treat?

“Yes, it’s a scary story, but not so scary all the children will run out of the theatre screaming I hope,” Noel grins.

“We think we’ve found the right balance, because kids like to be scared, and this is a 150-year-old story we’re talking about here.

“Not that it’s any less relevant today.

“But there is also comedy and music throughout and lots of funny characters like Christmas Present as well as the communal chorus, so it’s not all misery and Scrooge.”

A bit like the Muppets version then?

“I haven’t watched the Michael Caine version. Maybe I’ll watch it afterwards.

“But A Christmas Carol story is imbedded in our consciousness because it’s such a phenomenal piece of story-telling and that’s the strength of it.

“And the message is more resonant now than ever, when we really need to be looking out for each other,” Noel says, in a voice even Dickens would have been proud of.

* A Christmas Carol, the Creation Christmas show opens tonight and runs until January 7 at The North Wall, featuring specially commissioned carols, thrilling ghouls and a sprinkling of festive cheer. Call the box office on 01865 766266 or see creationtheatre.co.uk Pictured from left, Creation theatre members Robert Hyacinth, Tyrone Lopez and Jayson Wheatley Picture: OX49083 Jon Lewis