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A Christmas Carol

Rapid Fire 20Q with cast of Nashville Rep’s ‘A Christmas Carol’, returning for a second holiday season at TPAC’s Polk Theater thru December 22

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When Nashville Repertory Theatre debuted Micah-Shane Brewer’s adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol last holiday season, I made the not-so difficult prediction in my review that the production was easily poised to become an instant tradition. Well, I was right. Returning to TPAC’s Polk Theater for a second year in a row, Nashville Rep’s A Christmas Carol is back. Last year I had the chance to chat with Brewer and the actors playing the Ghosts. This year for the latest installment of my recurring interview feature, Rapid Fire 20Q, I thought it would be fun to chat with a few more members of the cast including Matthew Carlton, who plays Ebenezer Scrooge, Eric Pasto-Crosby, who’s cast as Bob Cratchit and the dynamic duo of Denice Hicks and Galen Fott, returning again this year as The Fezziwigs. So get yourself a plateful of your favorite Christmas sweet treats and check out the conversations below.

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Rapid Fire 20Q with Cast Members of Nashville Rep’s A Christmas Carol

Rapid Fire with Matthew Carlton, Scrooge in Nashville Rep’s A Christmas Carol

JHPENTERTAINMENT: When I reviewed the premiere production of Nashville Repertory Theatre’s A Christmas Carol last holiday season, my headline foretold this retelling just might become a holiday tradition, and here you are, reprising your role of Scrooge in Micah-Shane Brewer’s presentation once again. How excited are you to step back into this role?

MATTHEW CARLTON: A Christmas Carol is just about my favorite story to share and I’ve played many of the characters. After taking on the mantle, Scrooge has become a wonderful, complex, challenging and most rewarding role.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Not only are you returning, but from the looks of things, so is the majority of the cast. What’s it like to be part of a retuning troupe of fellow actors?

MATTHEW CARLTON: Comfort and joy!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: In my aforementioned review of the show’s previous run, I ranked you right alongside Sir Michael Caine among my favorite Scrooges. YES, I guess It’s become passé to mention Caine’s performance in The Muppet’s Christmas Carol, but I don’t care…it’s brilliant. SO, I gotta ask…yourself excluded, who’s your favorite Scrooge?

MATTHEW CARLTON: That is high and humbling company. I study every performance  on film, I can find. But I keep going back to Sims, for his fully rounded take. (Love Magoo though, too).

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Since this is a ‘Holiday Edition’ of my Rapid Fire interview feature, these last two remain questions are simply either/or. Which song do you think is played more at Christmas…Mariah Carey’s All I Want for Christmas OR Wham’s This Christmas? 

MATTHEW CARLTON: AIWFC. BTW, former local, Travis Harmon, is Santa on her tour this year.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Mulled Wine or Spiked Hot Chocolate?

MATTHEW CARLTON: CHOCOLATE!

Rapid Fire with Eric Pasto-Crosby, Bob Cratchit in Nashville Rep’s A Christmas Carol

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What can you tell me about Bob Cratchit, the role you’re reprising for a second year in Nashville Rep’s A Christmas Carol? 

ERIC PASTO-CROSBY: Bob Cratchit, in my opinion, and in this year versus last year, is more of the standard of parent that people want to be. He cares, even though he’s aware of the situation to a certain degree, but he still thinks the positive in everyone. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: While the majority of the cast is returning, there’s a few new faces among the company, including Alicia Haymer, who’s playing Cratchit’s wife, Elizabeth. What’s the best aspect of having Alicia as your scene partner?

ERIC PASTO-CROSBY: One of the things I love about working with Alicia is her warmth and her acceptance of whatever you bring to the scene. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Dickens’ A Christmas Carol was written 181 years ago. Why is it still among the most beloved holiday stories?

ERIC PASTO-CROSBY:  Not only have I had the privilege of two years in a row being in a production of a Christmas Carol, but I also like to read it every Christmas and I watch pretty much every movie version that I can find. I believe it’s a classic because it has lessons that we all still need to learn. And it has such a heartwarming story that you can possibly fix even some of the worst situations.  

JHPENTERTAINMENT: If you weren’t playing Cratchit, what other roles might you enjoy in A Christmas Carol?

ERIC PASTO-CROSBY: I would love to play some of the ghost, particularly Jacob Marley because in the full text, he has some amazing lines and I just think that would be fun. Also, I would get to fly. One day I’d like to be Scrooge.  

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Is there a particular Christmas, or a Holiday tradition that you recall from your childhood?

ERIC PASTO-CROSBY: A holiday tradition that my family has done because my Dad was an emergency room doctor…We always had Christmas with my family on Christmas Eve instead of Christmas Day. I had Christmas Day to do whatever I wanted to do and we would do a little bit then. These days that works out great because we have Christmas with my family on Christmas Eve and then my wife’s family on Christmas Day and my family on Christmas Day. So my son basically ends up with three or four Christmases depending on how much family is in town and I think that’s lovely giving each family their own separate holiday.

Rapid Fire with Denice Hicks, Mrs. Fezziwig in Nashville Rep’s A Christmas Carol

JHPENTERTAINMENT: When I reviewed last year’s production, I indicated that you and your co-star Galen Fott as The Fezziwigs “bubble and giggle” about. How would you describe Mrs. Fezziwig and the way you’re approaching the role?

DENICE HICKS: Mrs. Fezziwig is married to the most loving, kind, playful, and hard working man imaginable. They run a reputable business and serve their community and when it’s time to party they have the best time. She sees the good in everyone and is ever grateful for her good life. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: On the subject of Galen Fott. How much fun are you having being back as his on-stage spouse?

DENICE HICKS: Galen IS Mr. Fezziwig to me! Kind, playful, creative and oh so talented. I feel very fortunate to be working next to him again. Last summer we played brother and sister in As You Like It and now we get to be married again. Pure joy. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: When I chatted with Matthew Carlton, your show’s Scrooge, I mentioned my favorite A Christmas Carol film adaptation…The Muppets. A highlight of that version is Fozzie and his Mom as The Fozziwigs. Do you have a favorite film version of A Christmas Carol yourself?

DENICE HICKS: I love Alastair Sim as Scrooge in the 1951 film, but Albert Finney in the 1970 musical is my heart’s favorite. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: For your last two questions, a little Holliday-themed THIS or THAT…Which do you like better, Peppermint Bark OR Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes?

DENICE HICKS: I could eat a whole pound of peppermint bark! 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: A Charlie Brown Christmas OR How The Grinch Stole Christmas?

DENICE HICKS: Hearing Boris Karloff reading The Grinch is a must for every Christmas, as is hearing David Sedaris reading The Santaland Diaries.

Rapid Fire with Galen Fottt, Mr. Fezziwig in Nashville Rep’s A Christmas Carol

JHPENTERTAINMENT: How would you describe Mr. Fezziwig, the character you play in A Christmas Carol?

GALEN FOTT: Well, Dickens describes him physically as “an old gentleman in a Welch wig”, a “Welch wig” actually being a woolen cap. I’m definitely one year closer to being an “old gentleman” than I was last year! But I would add that Fezziwig is jovial, high-spirited, generous, and big-hearted. I think he’s there to serve as a good example of how a man might behave towards his fellow men, an example that Scrooge unfortunately fails to follow as he moves through life.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: In addition to Mr. Fezziwig, you also are seen throughout the show during the caroling interludes. To that end, the show is peppered with a mix of Old English Carols and a few new, but perfectly periodesque tunes written especially for this retelling. Of the musical moments, do you have a particular favorite song or piece of lyrics?

GALEN FOTT: Well, although I don’t sing it, I love the little blessing that the Cratchits sing, which sounds for all the world like an old traditional tune, but which was actually written by Micah-Shane! Of what I get to sing and play, probably Greensleeves is my fave.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: When I chatted with your Fezziwig wife, Denice Hicks, I asked her about sharing the stage with you, so turnabout is fair play…what’s it like having Denice as a scene partner in this show?

GALEN FOTT: This is my sixth opportunity to work with the incomparable Denice Hicks, if you count her one-night-only appearance as our guest “Professor Willard” in the Rep’s Our Town. We also just played the two sibling Dukes in Nashville Shakespeare Festival’s As You Like It. Denice is eternally “in the moment” onstage, always listening, and able to adjust her performance to any unexpected nuances that might occur. She’s the best, and a real Nashville theatrical treasure.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What’s one item you hope you never receive as a gift again?

GALEN FOTT: Nothing is coming to mind as far as a bad present I personally have received. But as a father, I must take this opportunity to talk about Slimecano. This was a Hot Wheels playset, and truly one of the worst toys ever made. It was a bunch of plastic pieces that snapped together haphazardly to create a sort of obstacle course for Hot Wheels. The major attraction was a plastic volcano that would frequently erupt with an orange slime that gummed up your Hot Wheels and permanently stained everything it came in contact with. The Amazon page for Slimecano was a masterpiece of unintentional comedy, full of people’s furious complaints about the toy. The phrase “Bah Humbug” could have been invented for Slimecano.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Long after Scrooge sees the error of his ways and audiences return to their warm homes after seeing A Christmas Carol, what’s something you think they’ll remember from this production of the holiday classic?

GALEN FOTT: I’m very proud of this production. I think Micah-Shane did a wonderful job of preserving the heart of Dickens’ tale while translating it into the medium of theatre. It’s faithful in all the best ways. There’s plenty of theatre magic in our production; I mean, people fly across the stage! But in the end, I think people will remember exactly what Dickens intended them to. His message of generosity and compassion and empathy will stay in their minds long after the curtain comes down.

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Nashville Rep’s A Christmas Carol runs thru December 22 with matinee performances Saturdays and Sundays at 2pm and evening performances at 7:30pm, with an additional Thursday evening performance December 19. Tickets range in price from $58.50 to $96. CLICK HERE to purchase tickets or for more information.

As always, check out Nashville Rep online and follow them on Facebook, X, YouTube and Instagram.

If you wanna follow JHPEntertainment to find out who I’m chatting with for my next Rapid Fire Q&A, or for my take on the latest local and national theatre, music and movie offerings, find us at JHPEntertainment on Facebook JHPEntertainment on Instagram  and JHPEntertainment on Twitter. Got an event or show we should know about, drop us a line at the Contact tab. Till then, #GoSeeTheShow!

Rapid Fire 20Q with Director, Playwright and Cast Members of Rabbit Room Theatre’s ‘A Christmas Carol’; on stage December 7-22

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On Saturday, December 7, and continuing through Sunday, December 22, Rabbit Room Theatre and Matt Logan Productions present an all-new retelling of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol on stage at FSSDPAC (Franklin Special School District Performing Arts Center 1030 Excellence Way, Franklin, TN). Having been completely entranced by their 2022 teaming for The Hiding Place, I’m just gonna say it, anytime there’s a collaboration between Matt Logan Productions and Rabbit Room Theatre, I’m there! Matt Logan’s genius eye for stage and costume design detail paired with Rabbit Room Theatre’s Pete Peterson’s thoughtful and thought-provoking mastery as a playwright and the results are always spectacular. When I heard the these two powerhouses in regional theatre were coming together to present their vision of A Christmas Carol, I knew I had to feature them in the latest installment of my recurring interview feature, Rapid Fire 20Q. Rounding out the questions to a full 20, I requested a little time with the show’s Ebenezer Scrooge, Chip Arnold and The Ghost of Christmas Past, Ruthy Berends. What follows are all four conversations.

Rapid Fire 20Q with Director, Playwright and Cast Members of Rabbit Room Theatre’s A Christmas Carol

Rapid Fire with Rabbit Room Theatre’s A Christmas Carol playwright, Pete Peterson

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As a playwright, I’d imagine adapting a story so beloved might be a bit daunting. What was the catalyst for taking on A Christmas Carol?

PETE PETERSON: It’s not only beloved by audiences and readers worldwide, it’s beloved by ME. I love this book. I love Dickens. I think stepping up to the plate for a chance to retell a story that has entered the annals of literary history is a real privilege and challenge. And like storytellers have been doing for all of history, retelling the great tales of our language is a way of participating in the long tradition of Story in our culture. We tell stories and retell them over and over, and hopefully each new telling shows us a different facet of the tale so that it takes on new meanings and new relevance. That’s a great challenge and opportunity for a writer. It’s an honor.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Is there a line you’ve written for A Christmas Carol that you’re particularly proud of?

PETE PETERSON: Again and again, people who read or see the show seem to find resonance in the line “What is hidden cannot heal.” The story is all about these Ghosts revealing hard truths to Scrooge in the hopes that he will change, and those truths are often about how wounded he has been in life and how the covering up of those wounds is what keeps him bitter and alone. Those hurts and traumas from his youth need to be exposed and dealt with if he’s to have any hope of healing and joy. That’s a phrase that’s original to my adaptation and I’ve been really moved by how deeply audiences have responded to it. I think it’s an idea that’s latent in Dickens’ prose throughout the original, and effectively giving it voice through that line is satisfying.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Rabbit Room Theatre’s A Christmas Carol marks the latest collaboration between you and the show’s director, Matt Logan. Previously Matt helmed productions of The Battle of Franklin and Frankenstein, two of your other plays. What is it about Matt that makes it easy to entrust your written word?

PETE PETERSON: I feel like our imaginations are aligned in some mysterious way. He tends to intuit the way I tell stories and make them better with the design and staging and emotional intelligence he brings to them.. And I like to think I’ve learned to write in a way that allows his imagination to flourish. It’s been a really healthy collaboration. We tend to have a lot of back and forth as the shows develop, so that he can riff off of my ideas and I can riff off of his.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: While I’m sure Chip Arnold is your current favorite Scrooge on stage, which cinematic turn of the past stands out most in your mind?

PETE PETERSON: I feel like it’s a cliche to say The Muppets’ but like all cliches, they are cliches for a reason. It’s hard to beat Muppets. But otherwise I grew up with George C Scott, and I really like the animated version by Zemekis and Carrey. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: After attending a performance of Rabbit Room Theatre’s A Christmas Carol, what do you hope audiences take with them?

PETE PETERSON: One of the questions I’ve tried to wrestle with in the writing process is whether a man is changed (by some external force) or whether a man changes (by his own agency). Ultimately, I think the answer is both–and either way there’s a Spirit involved in the process. I hope folks will go home thinking about how we all might be more open to the people around us and how we all have the opportunity for change, both internal and external.

Rapid Fire with Rabbit Room Theatre’s A Christmas Carol director and designer, Matt Logan

JHPENTERTAINMENT: I think I say this every time I get the opportunity to chat with you about a show, but in my estimation, you are one of the most talented directors and designers the Nashville-area theatre company has ever seen. Your attention to detail is such a joy to experience. What’s been the most rewarding aspect of directing and designing Rabbit Room Theatre’s A Christmas Carol

MATT LOGAN: Wow, you are so kind. I do love theater design, but most of all it’s story and the impact it has on our lives that keeps bringing me back to the theater. In this process, my favorite part has been reconnecting with the childlike imagination that brings about theatrical magic. In all aspects of this piece, we tried to find the magical way to help tell the story of Ebenezer Scrooge . Sometimes it’s finding a new approach to period costume design or it’s using simple things to create ghosts and water. I will always be drawn to theater magic over realism. I hope that with everything I do, there is a strong approach to emotional realism and theatrical magic.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: When I spoke with Pete, I noted that A Christmas Carol is just the latest in a line of collaborations between the two of you as playwright and director. What keeps you saying yes to bringing his work to the stage?

MATT LOGAN: Haha! It’s such a joy working with Pete. Our gifts are completely different and yet we find a common goal for excellence. I will forever be in awe of Pete’s writing . His gift for language astounds me. On top of that he knows my work and my collaborators so well, that it gives us a shorthand on each project. In many ways, he envisions what I’m going to do with a piece as he’s writing it. We just fit together nicely and it’s a great blessing to have that synchronicity

JHPENTERTAINMENT: I understand this production will feature an original score. Can you tell me a bit about that?

MATT LOGAN: Yes, Anthony Matula is composing an original score for the piece. As you can imagine this is a very difficult thing to do with an original play. So much was in development and not set until the very end. So even now we are trying to finalize the details, but Tony offers such a unique sensibility to the score. He comes from the film world and has brought an incredible perspective to each scene. Our goal is to enhance the cinematic feel of our theater production 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: On the subject of music, what’s your favorite holiday tune? And why does it hold such a special place in your mind?

MATT LOGAN: Hard to say, but I’ll Be Home for Christmas is my all-time favorite. I’ve sung it many times on stage because I was away from my hometown for about 12 years. This is when I lived in Los Angeles and New York. Nothing brought me greater joy than when I could come home for Christmas. I longed for it. My parents and grandparents always made the season so full of love. I’m definitely a Christmas guy, I love this time of year. And that’s why I’m so grateful to be sharing this season with Rabbit Room Theatre, our incredible cast, and this Middle Tennessee community. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As alluded to in my first question for you, your attention to detail in even the most minute props or set design elements is always such fun to see. Is there something in this show that you’re hoping audience members will spot and get a smile from?

MATT LOGAN: Haha! There is so much of me in this piece. From real items to my designs for this show, my fingerprints are all over it. On my 21st birthday my mom gave me a Shakespeare bust. Years later I bought another one that is almost life size. Somehow this bust reminds me of the delight I found in theatre class with my high school drama teacher Paula Flautt. The idea of the stage and how I feel in love with it is symbolized by that bust. I had to add it to the stage pictures! 

Rapid Fire with Ruthy Berends, Ghosts of Christmas Past and Future in Rabbit Room Theatre’s A Christmas Carol

JHPENTERTAINMENT: I just chatted with Matt Logan, your director and designer for A Christmas Carol. I saw a social media post previewing your wardrobe for The Ghost of Christmas Past. Of course it’s truly gorgeous. How much does wardrobe enhance your portrayal on stage?

RUTHY BERENDS: Ugh isn’t it glorious?! Wardrobe always helps me feel more connected to a role, but the magic and grandeur of the costumes Matt has created for Past (and Yet To Come) are especially impactful. Past is whimsical and twinkly and mysterious, and the dress Matt designed not only helps capture that for the audience, but also for me. I slip into it and immediately feel myself raising an eyebrow, putting my shoulders back, and really embodying the role we have all worked to create.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Speaking of The Ghost of Christmas Future, you’re playing that role as well. Two very different roles. How much fun are you having in this duality?

RUTHY BERENDS: It’s a total delight. I love the contrast and the continuity I keep finding between the two. On the surface, they are very different; Past is spritely, light, and sparkly, and Future is dreadful, dark, and decrepit. Their demeanors are different, their costumes are different, they move very differently. But they’re also after the same thing: to help Scrooge see himself more fully and move him toward change. It’s been so fun getting to play with the different characters and their almost opposite tactics for achieving the same goal. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: A Christmas Carol marks your return to live theatre after having focused on tv and film in recent years. To my estimation, Matt Logan is a very cinematic director, so has that made the return to the stage easier for you?

RUTHY BERENDS: I’ve been working with Matt since I was 14 years old, so I feel very at home under his direction. It’s funny, in my audition for A Christmas Carol, Matt immediately gave me the same note he’s been giving me since I was a teenager – “Do it again but for the back of the room!” which made us both chuckle with knowing. He has always provided a safe and creative space to play and explore, and his approach was a huge reason I wanted to be an actor in the first place. And I definitely have a new appreciation for his ability to blend theatre and cinema after these years focusing on film, and his whole approach has made this experience a delight. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: I understand you’re a relatively new Mom. Given that, have you thought of any Christmas traditions, activities or holiday specials and movies that you are excited to introduce to you child as the years progress?

RUTHY BERENDS: Yes, my son just turned two! I would love for the arts to be a part of it, whether it’s seeing a play or going to the symphony or a choral recital. Definitely watching all of the Christmas movies: Home Alone, Elf, The Santa Clause, Christmas Vacation. And honestly, I can’t wait to see A Christmas Carol with him one day and talk all about its meaning. It’s become such an important story to me over these last several months.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As written by the playwright, Pete Peterson, what’s your favorite aspect of the ghosts you play?

RUTHY BERENDS: Oh man, it’s so hard to name just one. I guess for Past I would say her wonder and humor. Pete has written her so beautifully as both deep/wise and funny/light-hearted, and I love playing with those different aspects in one character. It’s very complex and mysterious. And with Future, I love that she is not the usual hooded black shroud that one typically associates with A Christmas Carol. In this version, she is more akin to a decaying bride, a representation of all Scrooge has lost and still could lose if he stays on his curmudgeonly path. And the challenge of playing a character who does not speak but has so much to impart, is so fun.

Rapid Fire with Chip Arnold, Scrooge in Rabbit Room Theatre’s A Christmas Carol 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Having previously played Scrooge a few years in a row in another area theatre company’s production of A Christmas Carol, what stands out to you about this particular incarnation as adapted by Rabbit Room Theatre’s artistic director, Pete Peterson?

CHIP ARNOLD: A few things stood out immediately: Pete Peterson’s beautiful integration of his words with Dickens words. They are dense, beautiful, and require savory chewing.  Then Pete’s incorporation of the spirit world beyond Marley, and his three ghostly ambassadors. And finally, Scrooge’s inner child is a revelation. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: This adaptation is directed by Matt Logan, another member of the area theatre community with whom you’ve worked with in the past. What’s your favorite aspect of Matt as a director?

CHIP ARNOLD: His vision. Matt is a visionary and the clarity with which he creates this vision. His generosity as he invites the actors into this vision and gives us the freedom to play and explore as we find ourselves becoming contributors to the story.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: In your estimation, is Scrooge villain or victim?

CHIP ARNOLD: Actually, neither. Modern cultures have created a one-dimensional character with descriptors such as “miserly” and “greedy.” This is not villainous. These of symptoms of hurt and rejection. In Pete’s version of the story, we explore the reasons why these choices were made.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What’s one of your most cherished holiday memories?

CHIP ARNOLD: A tradition my wife and I started years ago with our grands is what we call the Christmas Tree Fairies who will come to our farm the day after Thanksgiving and leave a Christmas tree somewhere in the woods and we hike back to the woods in search of the treasure. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What is it about this story that has proven a beloved part of the holiday season for 181 years?

CHIP ARNOLD: It is a story of rescue and redemption. And, for me personally, it is tied to the Nativity story that so many celebrate at this time of year. The point of the arrival of the Christ child was to save humankind. The point of the arrival of Marley and the Three Spirits was to save Ebenezer Scrooge. That tale never grows old.

Matt Logan Productions and Rabbit Room Theatre’s A Christmas Carol opens Saturday, December 4 and continues through Sunday, December 22 with performances Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Saturday and Sunday performances are at 2:30pm and 7:30pm. Wednesday shows are at 7:30pm. The final week of the run, there’s also a Thursday evening show at 7:30pm. Tickets start at $45. CLICK HERE to purchase tickets or for more information.

Check out The Rabbit Room online or follow them on Facebook and Instagram. To keep with all things creative from Matt Logan Productions, check out their Facebook and Instagram.

As always, if you wanna follow JHPEntertainment to find out who I’m chatting with for my next Rapid Fire Q&A, or for my take on the latest local and national theatre, music and movie offerings, find us at JHPEntertainment on Facebook,  JHPEntertainment on Instagram  and JHPEntertainment on Twitter.

Got an event or show we should know about, drop us a line at the Contact tab. Till then, #GoSeeTheShow!

Theatre Review: With a new adaptation of ‘A Christmas Carol’, The Rep presents what could easily be Nashville’s newest holiday tradition

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For years Nashville Repertory Theatre presented the modern holiday favorite, A Christmas Story as their annual seasonal offering and it was a delight. This year they’re going a more traditional route, but with a twist as they present a newly adapted version of A Christmas Carol. When you think of classic Christmas stories, Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol is likely to be among the first that comes to mind. Since first being gifted to the public by way of a novella published back in 1843, Dickens’ now-familiar story of miserly miserable Ebenezer Scrooge has delighted audiences for nearly two centuries. While audiences witness Scrooge being visited by three Christmas Spirits, they’re reminded that the true spirit of Christmas is simply kindness towards others. Thanks to Nashville Repertory Theatre’s Broadway-worthy presentation, adapted by The Rep’s Artistic Director Micah-Shane Brewer, Nashville audiences are getting the chance to see this timeless story and the ever-present reminder that good will is the greatest gift as A Christmas Carol continues at TPAC’s James K. Polk Theatre through Sunday, December 17.

Those familiar with A Christmas Carol, and let’s face it, who isn’t?, might recall that the story is rather brief. After all, a synopsis might go something like this…Scrooge is mean. Scrooge sees the ghost of his former partner. He has a sleepless but eventful night. He has a change of heart. Scrooge is nice again…To that end, the play. in its standard form, is rather brief. To flesh it out and make it the gorgeous, enchanting and emotional spectacle it is in it’s current iteration with The Rep, in addition to directing this production, Brewer also adapted the classic story, extending a few scenes and adding a choir of townsfolk performing musical interludes between scenes—some classic carols—and some newly written by Brewer and arranged by The Rep’s Musical Director/Arranger Gregg Perry. It’s those musical moments and extended scenes that help The Rep’s A Christmas Carol stand out, and, if you ask me, should make it The Rep’s new annual holiday tradition.

One such musical interlude opens the show. As the curtain rises on Scenic Designer Gary C. Hoff’s idyllic London Town, ensemble members are seen bustling about shopping and readying for the coming holiday. A group of carolers forward and begin to sing Almost Christmas Day, one of the handful of new works written by Brewer and arranged by Perry. I gotta be honest, as soon as the first musical interlude began, I knew I had to reach out to Brewer to get a little insight. Of this opening carol, Brewer revealed, “I wanted a song that helped to establish time and location, and to introduce the people of London (as well as Scrooge). I looked for a carol that would fit and everything I found just felt forced. So one day, early on in the process, I said “well, maybe I’ll just write a song,” somewhat joking. But then I started jotting some lyrics down and thought that this might be the best way to effectively achieve what I needed for the opening. So the lyrics came first, and then when it was time to set the lyrics to music, the tune and lyrics did not fit. Back to the drawing board, I wrote a melody, used a few of the original lyrics, but ended up writing a lot of new lyrics to fit. Songwriting for the theatre is MUCH harder! I broke up dialogue between the verses to help begin setting the story.”

Brewer’s plan worked perfectly as the audience is immediately transported back in time and invited to experience the familiar story once again. Among those features throughout as carolers are Christine Toole, Ivory Bodnar, Shelby Talbert, Ben Friesen, Galen Fott and Brian Charles Rooney. While most of the ensemble sing at one point or another, let me be clear…this isn’t a full-on musical, the carols are simply perfectly peppered throughout to fill the gap between scene changes and to add a bit of punch to the progression of the story. It’s not like Scrooge breaks into song mid-sentence or anything like that. Instead, The inclusion of the occasional carols, old and new, is as welcomed and soothing as a cup of Hot Cocoa on a brisk winter’s morn.

Among the traditional carols included: The First Noel, Deck the Halls, I Saw Three Ships, In The Bleak Midwinter, We Wish You a Merry Christmas and more.

In addition to the opening tune penned by Brewer and Perry, Act One also features a song titled Blessing, performed by Jennifer Whitcomb-Oliva and the Cratchit family. Of this tune, Brewer said, “I knew I wanted to may the prayer a song but didn’t want it to be long. So, I wrote the lyrics as I was writing the script, and then a few months later came back to it and gave it a melody. It’s simple, which is exactly what I wanted.”

Act Two features another original written by Brewer and arranged by Perry, It’s Christmastime Again, with includes a solo by Scrooge himself. Brewer explained, “I wanted a song that established the feeling of Christmas Day, the hopes and the happiness one feels at the time. As I started writing the melody, I realized some of my original lyrics didn’t work. I wanted the song to feel and sound like it could be from the period, so the melody sounds very traditional. As I was revising the second verse of lyrics, I thought why not give Scrooge a solo here? He can sing about how his heart has been transformed. I’m really happy with the number, and I must admit, even I go around singing and humming it, so I guess it’s an earworm.”

Speaking of Scrooge, Matthew Carlton is simply brilliant in the role, and it’s a bit of a full-circle moment! His bio reveals his first foray into A Christmas Carol at The Rep came in 1990 when he was cast as Scrooge’s young nephew, Fred. Over the years, Carlton says he’s played a dozen or more characters in eleven different production. I’m here to tell you though, he better free up his winter calendar going forward because it’s official, Matthew Carlton now ranks among my favorites to have ever taken on the role. He’s in good company, too, considering Sir Michael Caine’s Scrooge from The Muppet Christmas Carol tops the list! What’s interesting about Carlton’s performance is, it’s all-encompassing. Yes, he can mean-mug with the best of them, but the scene that struck me most, and may or may not have made my eyes sweat takes place during a party when Scrooge is transported back in time by Kris Sidberry’s beautiful Ghost of Christmas Past. In the scene, Carlton’s Scrooge sees his beloved Belle (Ivory Bodnar) enjoying the merriment of a dance with fellow holiday revelers. Caught up in the moment, but forgetting that he’s only a shadow presence, Scrooge attempts to join in the fun, getting caught at one point in the center of a quartet of dancers. Of course unseen because he isn’t actually there in his present form, he’s ignored as the dancers continue moving about without him. Within just a few minutes as this scene plays out, Carlton, under the keen direction of Brewer, runs the gamut of emotion from excitement to regret and sadness. Being a self-confessed Scrooge myself, I was a puddle.

The show–and its cast of beloved Nashville actors including such theatrical luminaries as Galen Fott and Denice Hicks as Mr. and Mrs. Fezziwig–is filled with the nuanced, but brilliant moments. After seeing Hicks and Fott bubble and giggle about as the Fezziwig’s, their’s is a party I’d gladly attend.

You know you’re a great actor when just a projection of your face can elicit an internal squee. That’s the exact reaction when another longtime Nashville favorite, Brian Webb Russell’s face appeared on Scrooge’s door as the “dead to begin with” Jacob Marley. In an early scene, when Marley visits Scrooge to warn him of the coming visitors, Russell’s Marley rattles his chains as he floats about the room. More fanciful than frightening, a joy to watch. He’s equally enjoyable when paired with Deb Meeks (making her Rep debut) as a rather boisterous party-goer who’s husband (Russell) is partaking of a few too many Christmas ‘spirits’ of his own. These two need to be paired together more!

Still more of my favorites, Eric D. Pasto-Crosby and Jennifer Whitcomb-Oliva are featured as Bob Cratchit and his wife, Emily. Pasto-Crosby plays the kindly Cratchit with sweet conviction. Whitcomb-Oliva proves her range, and her acumen as Bob’s devoted wife, Emily, but my favorite scene comes when she’s about to give Scrooge a bit of fiery what for, only to realize he’s seen the error of his ways and quickly turn on that megawatt charm once again. God, thank you for the gift that is Jennifer Whitcomb-Oliva on stage, even in a supporting role, she’s a scene-stealing delight.

Can’t talk about A Christmas Carol without talking about the Spirits. Mentioned above, Kris Sidberry, making her Nashville Rep debut, is simply magical as Ghost of Christmas Past. Delightful, sweet and fun…all the things we think of most when we remember the past are personified in Sidberry’s performance. She doesn’t just shine in her performance, she sparkles. In part, thanks to Costumer Designer, Melissa Durmon’s literally and figuratively glowing gown!

Brian Charles Rooney, seen last holiday season as Buddy the Elf in Nashville Rep’s Elf, is larger than life as Ghost of Christmas Present, and what a present his performance is. Towering above Carlton’s Scrooge (did I see light-up disco platforms under Rooney’s velvet robe?) Rooney’s Ghost of Christmas Present is cheeky, loud and bossy. Everything you could wish for in a ghost guide. Again, kudos to Durmon, and added kudos to her and her wig department team for transforming Rooney into an almost unrecognizable bacchanalian party god with flowing ginger locks and beard. Didn’t think I was into scruffy gingers, but you never know. As mentioned previously, Rooney is among those featured throughout the action as a caroler. I have it on good authority he had been dealing with a bit of laryngitis during the opening days of the show. All I know is, if that’s Rooney with laryngitis, belting out and hitting those unfathomable soprano-high notes, the rest of the run the audiences were in for a treat.

Round out the ghostly trio is Ben Friesen as Ghost of Christmas Future. Even though the show is about to enter its final week at the time of this review being posted, I’m a staunch believer that spoilers do just that…they spoil aspects of shows that are meant to surprise and entertain. To that end, Friesen’s Ghost of Christmas Future definitely delivers. Visually hauntingly brilliant and looming large, Friesen’s appearance is definitely a powerful one. Suffice it to say, his performances a Ghost of Christmas Future would no doubt make Jim Henson proud..and that’s as much of a spoiler as you’ll get from me. Not to fret though, he’s also featured throughout the show, most notably as Dick Wilkins, a friend and colleague of younger Scrooge.

Speaking of younger Scrooge, Evan Fenne is making his debut as Scrooge in his younger days. His scenes with Ivory Bodnar’s Belle are perfectly sweet and though we know their fate, the hopefulness of their performances together is joyous and further illustrates Scrooge’s hidden, but still-present redeemable qualities.

The entire cast is filled with great supporting performances. Mention should be made of Max Fleischhacker as Scrooge’s Nephew Fred, Ethan H. Jones as Mr. Blakeley, Abby Hopper as Alice Cratchit, Alex Hillaker as Henry Cratchit, David Long III as Peter Cratchit, Shelby Talbert as Martha Cratchit, Elle Wesley as Belinda Cratchit, Caroline Henry as Alice Cratchit and Emily Hooper and David Matthew Clark (on alternate nights) each sharing the role as Tiny Tim.

Nashville Repertory Theatre’s A Christmas Carol on stage at TPAC’s James K. Polk Theatre continues through Sunday, December 17. CLICK HERE for tickets or more information. Following a brief break in the new year, Nashville Repertory Theatre will present Paula Vogel’s Indecent on stage at TPAC’s Andrew Johnson Theatre as The Rep’s 2023/2024 season continues. CLICK HERE for tickets to this powerful play. In the meantime, check out Nashville Rep online HERE and follow them on Facebook,  Twitter,  YouTube and Instagram.

As always, if you wanna follow JHPEntertainment to find out who I’m chatting with for my next Rapid Fire Q&A, or for my take on the latest local and national theatre, music and movie offerings, find us at JHPEntertainment on Facebook, JHPEntertainment on Instagram  and JHPEntertainment on Twitter. Got an event or show we should know about, drop us a line at the Contact tab. Till then, #GoSeeTheShow!

Rapid Fire 20Q with director and cast of Nashville Repertory Theatre’s ‘A Christmas Carol’; onstage at TPAC’s James K. Polk Theatre December 1 thru 17

by

Few Christmas classic have endured the test of time like Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. First published in novella form1843, by the following year, stage adaptations and public readings (by Dickens and others) solidified the now-familiar story of Ebenezer Scrooge and his attitude-adjusting otherworldly Christmas Eve visitors as a holiday tradition. To that end, Nashville Repertory Theatre’s own Artistic Director Micah-Shane Brewer will helm this year’s holiday offering of A Christmas Carol adapted by the director himself.

A couple weeks ago, I reached out to The Rep’s Director of Marketing and Communications, Amos Glass with the idea of chatting with four members of the cast and crew of A Christmas Carol for a Christmasy edition of my recurring interview feature, Rapid Fire 20Q. When Amos asked who I’d like to chat with, I immediately requested Micah-Shane  and the three actors playing the Three Christmas Spirits. What follows are those conversations.

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RAPID FIRE 20Q WITH CAST AND CREW OF NASHVILLE REP’s A CHRISTMAS CAROL

RAPID FIRE Q&A WITH A CHRISTMAS CAROL DIRECTOR MICAH-SHANE BREWER

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As the show’s director, what is it about A Christmas Carol, and this version in particular that drew you to the project? 

MICAH-SHANE BREWER: A Christmas Carol has always held a special place in my heart.  For as long as I can remember, this story has been a part of my holiday tradition.  When I was a kid, I had a VHS tape (yes, I’m that old) of Mickey’s Christmas Carol and I would watch it over and over.  Along the way, I’ve seen numerous film and tv adaptations and grown to love certain versions. (My favorite is The Muppets Christmas Carol!) I’ve also been in and directed probably 9 or 10 different stage adaptations.  I’ve spent most of my life revisiting these characters each and every year. And every time I come back to it, it always connects in a deeper and more meaningful way. 

I think as we get older, we look back at the past and think about touchstone moments, things that we did or didn’t do, choices that may have changed the trajectory of our path, but also, looking at where we are in this moment in time and where we are heading. The power of A Christmas Carol is that it speaks to one and all, both young and old.  Its universal themes can touch us all.  There’s a reason it’s one of the most popular stories in the world, even 180 years after it was written.  

When we decided we wanted to produce A Christmas Carol, I knew I wanted to make a special production that would be a holiday event for the entire family. It’s a traditional version of A Christmas Carol. Audiences can expect a beautiful, large-scale production with something for everyone and all ages.  It’s a brand-new script, and the production designs are breathtaking.  The scenic design is spectacular – the costumes are splendid – there are over 500 different pieces used in the production.  There are some really fantastic projections designs and special effects.  Music plays an integral role in the production.  We use numerous Old English carols from the period, as well as a couple of new songs in the production.

A Christmas Carol is far more than just a classic holiday story; it is a poignant and transformative reflection of our shared human experience and an enduring reminder of the power of empathy and connection. It’s a journey of healing and a story of redemption.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Eggnog or Hot Cocoa?

MICAH-SHANE BREWER: Hot Cocoa any day! 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: A White Christmas or Sunshine for Santa?

MICAH-SHANE BREWER: I’m going to have to say a WHITE CHRISTMAS! There’s something very peaceful about a snowy day. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What do you enjoy more, wrapping presents or decorating the tree?

MICAH-SHANE BREWER: That’s a no brainer for me. Decorating the trees! Every year, we put up multiple trees in our house.  I love to decorate for the holidays.  (And I’m not very good at wrapping gifts…)

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What’s your favorite Christmas memory?

MICAH-SHANE BREWER: How do I pick just one? A lot of my memories and Christmas traditions run together. I have so many memories of  Christmases when I was a kid: being with family; the rush of waking my sister up early Christmas morning and opening gifts; my grandmother’s Christmas lunch.

When you get older, Christmas changes in many ways. For many years, we hosted a huge Christmas party for our friends, and every year, the evening would conclude with friends gathering around the piano, singing Christmas carols (and sometimes showtunes). I love Christmas music, and being able to share that moment every year with friends is a special memory. 

I’m usually doing a show around the holiday season. When I was in grad school, I remember doing MANY school performances of A Christmas Carol, and one performance, a young girl stood up from her seat in the front row during the finale, all gooey eyed and mouth wide opened, and yelled “It’s SNOWING!” She really believed it was happening, and it was just one of those moments that was so special to see the magic of Christmas and theatre combined!  So every year, I think about that little girl and hope to recapture that magic for others!

RAPID FIRE Q&A WITH A CHRISTMAS CAROL’s GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PAST, KRIS SIDBERRY

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Among your roles in A Christmas Carol at Nashville Rep, you play The Ghost of Christmas Past. If you could live in a past time period, when would it be?

KRIS SIDBERRY: I was definitely not made for the modern time period. I love the Harlem Renaissance of the 1920s. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: A Muppet Christmas Carol or Mickey’s Christmas Carol? 

KRIS SIDBERRY: Mickey’s. My Dad loved Mickey Mouse. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Gingerbread or Sugar Cookies?

KRIS SIDBERRY: I love both. Cookies are my fav, but I guess Gingerbread. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: A Christmas Tree with clear lights or multicolor? 

KRIS SIDBERRY: Multicolor! White lights are so basic. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Favorite Christmas Memory?

KRIS SIDBERRY: Christmas was always very big deal in my house. My father was obsessed with Christmas. Sometimes he would decorate 3 different trees.  Like most young kids, every year I would set out homemade cookies and milk. I remember being about five years old, and I swear that I heard jingle bells and hooves on the roof when preparing for the visit from Santa. I’m pretty sure that my parents must’ve hooked up speakers somehow in the house and played a track, but I will never forget that memory. So magical. I believed in Santa until my pre-teens. I will always believe in magic.

RAPID FIRE Q&A WITH A CHRISTMAS CAROL’s GHOST OF CHRISTMAS FUTURE, BEN FRIESEN

JHPENTERTAINMENT: You’re cast as The Ghost of Christmas Future, among other roles in The Rep’s A Christmas Carol. If you could make a wish for the future, and I guess now that I’m asking, you can, What would it be?

BEN FRIESEN: I would wish for more opportunities like this one, where I get to do so many things that I love to do with so many wonderful people! I already feel blessed to be acting professionally, but when I get to add singing, dancing, fiddling, dialect work, and flying? Shows like this are my dream!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Candy Canes or Peppermint Bark?

BEN FRIESEN: Nowadays I would probably go for peppermint bark, but the child in me still wants to lick one end of a candy cane until it becomes as sharp as a tack.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Favorite traditional Christmas Carol?

BEN FRIESEN: I love Mary Did You Know—the original carol already went surprisingly hard, but Pentatonix turned it into a certified bop.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Which do you think would keep you more in line…Elf on the Shelf or Krampus?

BEN FRIESEN: Something about the Elf on a Shelf’s beady little eyes say, “I know what you did”, which sends me into a spiral of, “What did I do this time?”—since Krampus is a physical threat, I feel like I could probably Home Alone-style defend myself against him if that situation arose.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Favorite Christmas Memory?

BEN FRIESEN: Throughout my childhood, my siblings and I were huge Lego fans (still are). Each year, we would often ask for one larger Lego set as our main gift, and our parents would save that for last—that way, when we tore open the wrapping paper, we would all immediately run downstairs and spend the next hour or two building our new sets together in our matching Christmas PJs.

RAPID FIRE Q&A WITH A CHRISTMAS CAROL’s GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT, BRIAN CHARLES ROONEY

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Among your roles in Nashville Rep’s A Christmas Carol, you play The Ghost of Christmas Present. What’s the most fun aspect of that character?

BRIAN CHARLES ROONEY: I love the idea that he ages over the course of 24 hours! There is a lot of fun to be mined in creating that idea, subtly, via voice pitch and tone, as well as via my movement as the character. I also love working in the costume at the designers created for this character. It’s grand, it’s beautiful, and it’s actually fun to wear!  But I think my favorite aspect of this character is his determined commitment to optimism, hope, and love.  He really does root for Scrooge; and he delights in seeing Scrooge find some happiness.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: A Charlie Brown Christmas or The Grinch Who Stole Christmas?

BRIAN CHARLES ROONEY: Definitely The Grinch!!!  I’m partial to anything campy, but what I love about The Grinch is that despite the comedic aspects of the story, the tale is unapologetically woven around the idea that love conquers hate.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Which pop Christmas tune is superior? Mariah’s All I Want for Christmas is You or Wham’s Last Christmas?

BRIAN CHARLES ROONEY: I think Mariah’s song is better written, but I will always love George Michael’s voice. Though, my friends and I play a game each year, that involves seeing which of us can avoid hearing Last Christmas before Christmas Eve. It only works if we all commit to the honor system of the game, but I almost won last year! They were only two of us left, but I heard it in Sprouts!!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Crazy Christmas Sweater or Cozy Christmas pjs?

BRIAN CHARLES ROONEY: Definitely the PJ’s!!!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Favorite Christmas memory?

BRIAN CHARLES ROONEY: My favorite Christmas memory, at least, from when I was a child, was the year I received a letter from Santa, on parchment paper, wrapped in a red velvet bow. It was such a wonderful, exciting, heartwarming experience! “He” had left it for me near the plate of cookies we’d left out the night before. I don’t think I’ll ever forget that morning and receiving that letter!

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With that the director and ghosts of Nashville Repertory’s A Christmas Carol vanished as if Ole Scrooge’s clock had struck its morning bell, but you can find them and the rest of the cast of this seasonal favorite on stage at TPAC’s James K. Polk Theatre beginning Friday, December 1 and continuing through Sunday, December 17. CLICK HERE for tickets or more information. Following a brief break in the new year, Nashville Repertory Theatre will present Paula Vogel’s Indecent on stage at TPAC’s Andrew Johnson Theatre as The Rep’s 2023/2024 season continues. CLICK HERE for tickets to this powerful play. In the meantime, check out Nashville Rep online HERE and follow them on Facebook,  Twitter,  YouTube and Instagram.

As always, if you wanna follow JHPEntertainment to find out who I’m chatting with for my next Rapid Fire Q&A, or for my take on the latest local and national theatre, music and movie offerings, find us at JHPEntertainment on Facebook, JHPEntertainment on Instagram  and JHPEntertainment on Twitter. Got an event or show we should know about, drop us a line at the Contact tab. Till then, #GoSeeTheShow!