AW o f AR S D- R W A I THE DICKENS, YOU SAY! N E N Y I

Background information on some of the names and words used in A Carol. N

5 G

THE 6

T ★ SCROOGE: The name was derived from a ★ CRATCHIT: From “cratch,” an archaic word H E A D for “creche,” the manger in which the T N word meaning to squeeze or crowd. R66 U E R O infant was laid. Also suggests the IN - T H E - ★ TIM: Originally called Little Fred, he may scratching of the clerk’s pen on paper. have been inspired by Dickens’ nephew, who suffered from tuberculosis and died ★ BAH, HUMBUG!: Scrooge’s famous young. He is referred to as Tiny Tim only catchphrase was only said twice by him twice in the novella. in the book.

★ PLUM PUDDING: There were no plums in ★ COUNTING HOUSE: A business office for Mrs. Cratchit’s . It was correspondence and keeping accounts. a traditional English dessert -- a steamed These were poorly heated and dimly lit. pudding filled with nuts, spices, and dried Most firms were small, consisting of only fruit such as raisins, which were then one or two employees. A workday of called plums. 12 to 13 hours, six days a week was not uncommon. ★ FIFTEEN SHILLINGS A WEEK: Bob’s salary equals about $80 a week in today’s ★ BURIED WITH A STAKE OF HOLLY currency, but the cost of living was much THROUGH HIS HEART: It was common cheaper in 1843. A typical salary for a clerk practice at that time to bury a murderer at that time was 25 shillings or more. or someone who committed suicide with a wooden stake through the heart. ★ HALF A CROWN: A coin worth about 2.5

shillings, an extremely generous tip for the ★ MILLINER’S APPRENTICE: These º

turkey boy. It was approximately a day’s apprentices were among the hardest- 0

wages for Bob, who would have worked 12 worked and worst-paid employees in 6 hours or more to earn that much money. Victorian England. The fact that Martha 3

had to work Christmas morning may mean

★ WALK-ER: An exclamation of disbelief, her employer was as mean as Scrooge. n

as in “You’re pulling my leg,” used by the i Turkey Boy, who would have found half a ★ FANNY: This was also the name of crown to be an unbelievably big tip. Dickens’ favorite older sister. e

r

t ★ POOR LAW: Ostensibly enacted to help ★ MARLEY: An Irish doctor Dickens met on a the poor, it made escaping poverty almost St. Patrick’s Day while he was writing A impossible. Dickens, who grew up poor . e and showed great compassion for poor h people, was an outspoken opponent of the ★ THE WORLD DEALS HARD WITH T Poor Law. POVERTY: Dickens had a life-long fear of poverty. When his father was sent to ★ OLD SCRATCH: Probably derived from an debtors prison, he was taken out of school Old Norse word meaning devil, goblin, or at age 12 and worked in a factory pasting monster. labels on bottles.

★ SMOKING : A hot named The headline at the top of this page does for the dark red color of the wine, which not refer to Charles Dickens. Dickens was resembled the color of a bishop’s robe. A a name once given to the devil, as in: The typical recipe: five unpeeled oranges, one devil, you say! unpeeled grapefruit, ¼ pound of sugar, two bottles of strong red wine, and one bottle of port. - 16 - November 28 - December 14, 2014 2014/2015 season THE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE PRODUCTION STAFF COLONIAL A Home-Grown Tradition Director...... Carol Youmans Music Director...... Roger Compton PLAYERS, People celebrate holidays in many different Choreographer...... Anna Thomas INC. ways. aren’t always… traditional. Do you favor a fragrant, freshly Producer...... Joan Townshend 108 East Street • Annapolis, MD 21401 cut fir tree, or the convenience of an artificial Stage Manager...... Tom Stuckey Telephone: 410-268-7373 version? The 1960s animated Rudolph the Red- Assistant Stage Manager...... Colin Hood Nosed Reindeer rerun, or modern Hallmark thecolonialplayers.org specials? Midnight Madness or ? Stage Crew...... Beth Starnes Costume Designer...... Dianne Andrew Smith BOARD OF DIRECTORS Variety abounds in our choices of tradition. Costume Assistants...... Fran Marchand, Judi Hilton-Hyde However, in Annapolis, one single tradition has Corporate Officers: Seamstresses...... Julie Bays, Jeannie Beall, Ruth Bowen, Lois Evans, been a gift enjoyed since 1981: A Christmas President...... Darice Clewell Joan Townshend, Carol Youmans Carol. The seeds are from England, but this is The Vice President...... Herb Elkin Colonial Players’ very own homegrown version. Lighting Designer...... Eric Gasior Secretary...... Theresa Riffle Lighting Assistants...... Wes Bedsworth, Jennifer Dustin, Frank Florentine, Treasurer...... Kaelynn Miller With book and lyrics by local playwright and Edd Miller, Shirley Panek, Heather Quinn, Matthew Shogren, Tom Stuckey, Directors: long-time CP colleague Rick Wade, and with Aiden Taylor, Joan Townshend Artistic...... Carol Youmans the participation of countless individuals Sound Designer...... Andy Serb Education & Special Projects...... Scott Nichols and families onstage and backstage over the Sound / Lighting Technician...... Cody Smith Human Resources...... Shirley Panek decades, is one of this area’s Marketing ...... Marguerite Jahns longest-running holiday traditions. Why? Properties Designer...... Connie Robinson Operations...... Wes Bedsworth Because when Rick turned Charles Dickens’ Lead Carpenter...... Dick Whaley Production...... Jennifer Dustin novella into a script, and put words to the music Carpenters...... Norm Coleman, Bob Mumper, Jim Robinson, Ted Yablonski of his collaborator, Dick Gessner, it was done with a deep admiration for the classic story and Set Decoration and Floor Design...... Edd Miller CP SPECIAL EVENTS an even deeper love for our community. While Set and Floor Painting...... Edd Miller, Tom Stuckey Season Sneak Peek some of the poorer characters you’ll see on Intern and Assistant to the Director...... Cody Smith Summer One Act Festival our stage may be wearing threadbare clothes, Backstage Assistants...... Cameron Currie, Lyn Keller, Anne Sharpe Promising Playwright Contest the love in this show is a strong thread that Post Show Talk Back weaves itself through the set pieces and props, Play Consultant...... Sharie Valerio Scholarship Award the sound, lights, costumes, and direction, and Rehearsal Assistant...... Angie Dey Season Celebration especially the performances you will see today. Audition and Rehearsal Pianists...... Anne C. Flood, Angela Linhardt Beth Whaley Series Poster / Program Cover Designer...... Drama Queen Graphics The story is timeless: The cold heart of a For information on these events, contact: lonely, sad man, rich in wealth but poor in Photography...... Colburn Images [email protected] spirit; a heart thawed by the warm fires of Program Editor...... Tom Stuckey unconditional love he witnesses among people Program Assistant...... Nancy Long whose wealth is nowhere to be found, except FRONT OF HOUSE in each other. Box Office...... Lynda Cunningham ACKNOWLEDGMENTS Subscriptions...... Lynda Cunningham We’re glad you’re here, whether it’s for the 30th time or the first. Our all-volunteer organization Mary Beth Yablonski John Robinson Bay Ridge Wine and Spirits holds a deep and abiding love for this marvelous Ushers...... Jeanie Mincher 111 Hillsmere Drive • Annapolis, MD News & Cues Editor...... Beth Terranova community. That is why we are honored to Academy Ballet School of Annapolis Webmaster...... Wes Bedsworth share our beloved tradition with you. Eileen Razzetti, Artistic Director Lois Banscher - DARICE CLEWELL Signs by Tomorrow Mary-Jo Bedsworth and 2134-A Generals Highway • Annapolis, MD Our Shepherd Lutheran Church

- 2 - - 15 - TO OUR CONTRIBUTORS (continued) ABOUT THE DIRECTOR PATRONS CAROL YOUMANS has been outreach, vice president, house director, and Anonymous Frances Dryer Leon McKenzie a devoted participant in others. Her links to A Christmas Carol go back Art Things, Inc. Bob & Doris Gavazzi Joyce C. Miller community theater for more 33 years when, as a new member of Colonial Jennifer Abner Jeff & Carol Goldring Susan Millman than 30 years, learning most of Players, she was tapped to design the set for Barbara E. Aisley Anita Gutschick William & Priscilla Mitchell, Jr. what she knows about theater the first production of the new musical by Rick Meredith Allison Alice Riley Hall Pam & Ted Mussenden from workshops and experience Wade and Dick Gessner. Now, after directing Susan Armstrong Elizabeth Hepler Nokomis gained by working on every many other shows at Colonial Players, she is Hubert Bishop Deborah & Ken Hoffman Hank Preiser Dick & Jill Breen Elia & John Howser Kim Rosekrans aspect of theater at Colonial Players. She has delighted to have her hand on the helm of this Pat & Bill Cameron Laura & Kurt Ivey Faye & Bernie Rosenberg designed sets, lights, costumes, and sound and beloved show. Thanks to this happy, talented Carol Carman Louise P. Johnson Joanne Trepp has crewed and served on many boards, most cast and hard-working creative staff, it has been Alice Chambers Eugenia Conlin Judge Sharie Lacey Valerio recently as artistic director; previously she was a most marvelous time of the year, keeping Louise J. Chrissos Shirley Kennard Joan & Bill Weingartner president, director of marketing and community Christmas at CP. Dianne Crews Evelyn Killeen Carvel & Margaret Wolfe Al & Pat Crosby Sally A. Laing John & Judith Youngblood Richard Davis Shirley G. Lieberman Leila Youngren ABOUT THE MUSIC DIRECTOR Allen & Edith Dolgoff Jane Lunney After 13 years without a “Hilli-Ho York, he returned to his primary musical interest Chirrup” while he was serving (i.e., the musical in musical theater) by founding Colonial Players gratefully acknowledges the generous bequest from Roland Riley, a as the Academic Dean of Webb the Webb Family Singers – a mixed chorus of longtime patron whose gift helps assure the future economic viability of our theater. institute of Naval Architecture students and staff numbering as many as 30 (one of America’s best kept singers (from the total student body of about college secrets) in Glen Cove, 80) – and directing the musical aspects of two NY, ROGER COMPTON (or Bob Cratchit, as he shows directed by Jill Compton (Mrs. Cratchit ABOUT OUR NEXT PLAY was known around Colonial Players for 15 years) in earlier productions). Roger and Jill have is delighted to be back in Maryland, retired (for founded an adult community chorus in Prospect Nothing cures the winter blues better than sore the next day.” The play was described as: the second time), and involved again with Wade Bay, where they reside. When not singing, they laughter, and Colonial Players is ready to provide “Astonishingly fresh, funny, and totally appealing and Gessner’s A Christmas Carol. While in New enjoy boating on the bay, travelling, and golfing. a huge supply of laughs with our January- to modern audiences,” by The Washington February production of The Liar, a sparkling Examiner, and The Washington Post described DIRECTOR’S NOTES comedy based on a 17th century French farce. Ives as “...an inveterate jester, a trait that serves David Ives, one of America’s leading playwrights, him well on an evening that is all jest.” Charles Dickens was a social reformer whose school to work in a boot-blacking factory. It was has translated and updated this story based on concern for the poor and downtrodden infused a scarring experience. The family scraped out a a man who cannot tell the truth and a servant The Liar opens January 16 and runs through his stories with characters struggling with ill living from a house in Camden Town like that who cannot lie. Together, they roar into Paris February 7. Details about the performance dates fortune. He wrote A Christmas Carol partly of the Cratchit’s four rooms: two up, two down, and into the pursuit of ladies named Clarice and are available at thecolonialplayers.org. Tickets can to awaken his society to the sufferings of the only with six children and parents. Dickens Lucrece, whom they meet in the Tuilleries be purchased online or by calling 410-268-7373. lower classes and to rail against prevailing social drew on first-hand experience in telling of the Gardens. Dorante falls instantly and madly Call the box office for information about reduced attitudes and legislation that did nothing to death of Tiny Tim, as he had lost a brother and in love with one of them, but confuses their price tickets for some performances. help them. The habit of celebrating Christmas sister when he was very young. He knew what names. That confusion sets up a classic and as a time of good will among all men, a time for being poor meant, and he believed “…that swiftly paced romp of mistaken identities and Ives describes his play as a “translaptation,” a people of all classes to smile benevolently upon these creatures have the same elements and each other, was in decline in 1843. Dickens capacities of goodness as yourselves.” deceptive actions that lead the hero to the brink combined translation and adaptation of Pierre wrote A Christmas Carol to remind his readers of disaster before all ends happily. Corneille’s play, which was first produced in of the benefits of taking time to appreciate all A Christmas Carol was a resounding success 1643. He said in one interview that he had of our fellow travelers on this earth and to lift from its first appearance to our times 160 years The Liar to bend the 361-year-old to what works in drew rave reviews after its premiere up the ones who need it most. “I have a great later. A friend wrote to Dickens: “Well, you production at Shakespeare Theatre Company current theater. “I think Corneille’s play … is a faith in the poor,” he wrote in a letter in 1844. should be happy yourself, for you may be in Washington. A reviewer for The Wall Street wonderful play, but it wasn’t going to work if I “To the best of my ability, I always endeavor to sure you have done more good, and not only Journal called it possibly the funniest play ever just translated it as it was,” he said. present them in a favorable light to the rich.” fastened more kindly feelings, but prompted written and said he “...laughed so hard I was more positive acts of benevolence, by this Many of the happenings in the story come out of little publication, than can be traced to all the Dickens’ childhood. When the family moved to pulpits and confessionals in Christendom, since London in 1824 from Chatham, Dickens’ 1842.” fell on hard times and went into debtors’ prison, and the 12-year-old Dickens was removed from – CAROL - 14 - - 3 - MUSIC SYNOPSIS TO OUR CONTRIBUTORS Overture...... Orchestra Thank you for your support. Your generous gifts help us to continue to provide educational and training in London...... The Carolers, Londoners programs, encouragement and entertainment to all who are interested in dramatic arts. That Most Marvelous Time of the Year...... Fred, Bob Cratchit Mind Your Own Business...... Scrooge, Londoners LIFE MEMBERS As If It Were Yesterday...... Scrooge Cdr. William R. Curtis Daniel G. Higgs Dr. & Mrs. James W. Ross Hilli-Ho! Chirrup!...... Mr. and Mrs. Fezziwig, Guests Fred & Paula Fishback Judi Hilton-Hyde Col. USMC (Ret.) In Your World...... Belle Richard Gessner & Chris Beaton Frank McLane Hyde & Mrs. Richard W. Smith In Your World Ballet...... Anna Thomas, Remy Browne Robert Giddings Irene E. Norton Allan Starkey Bill & Peggy Griswold Ronald Powell Mrs. Benjamin B. Wills, Jr. Cornucopia...... Ghost of Christmas Present, Londoners Bless Us All...... Cratchit Family One Fine Funeral...... Undertaker’s Man, Laundress, Charwoman PRODUCERS Keeping Christmas...... Scrooge Bill & Susan Allen Jeannie Beall Christie Norm & Judy Shackelton Finale...... Scrooge, Company Col. USA (Ret.) Fred Meg Hosmer Bob Sherer & Donna Arquilla John Kokron Beth Terranova Wes Bedsworth & Kaelynn Miller Eleanor Perfetto & John McLeod Karen Whaley & Jim Magner THE AUTHOR Timothy Brown Nancy Morgan John & Judi Wobensmith Cardinal Engineering David & Patricia Mutschler Carol Youmans RICHARD WADE has been writing, directing, Theatre, Bay Theatre, the Annapolis Opera, and James W. Cheevers Richard & Mary Rea and occasionally performing for Maryland other companies. He is proud to have served theaters for more than 40 years. In addition for five years as president of Colonial Players DIRECTORS to A Christmas Carol, he has written the plays and for many years on its Board of Directors. and lyrics for eight other musicals produced He and his wife, Jennifer, live in Arnold and are Don & Lucy Arthur Nancy Krebs Sharry & Donald Reed Dr. & Mrs. James H. Babcock Alice F. Kurs Sandra Sundeen locally and regionally. His play, Foxgloves, was particularly happy that their daughter, Sarah, is Janet & Nick Berry ADM Chuck & Sally Larson D. Romaine Towers included in last summer’s One-Act Play Festival an active Colonial Players member and is in the Pat & Jim Church Lynne & Steve Malley Dr. Stephan & Tamara Tymkiw at Colonial Players. He has directed many cast of A Christmas Carol once again. Edward E. Cohee, Jr. Lois & Noel Milan Mary Kitty Walker productions for CP, Annapolis Summer Garden Ellen & Wes Gardner Mr. & Mrs. Henry L. Mortimer Dick & Catherine Whaley Dr. Stephen & Christine Killian Michael & Sage Mumma Virginia & Chris White THE COMPOSER DICK GESSNER collaborated with Rick Wade served as musical director for many productions DESIGNERS to write the music for A Christmas Carol and in Maryland, including Carnival, Fiddler on the Anonymous Michael J. Keller Jim & Charlotte Robinson also wrote music for Wade’s adaptations of Roof, and My Fair Lady at Annapolis Summer Richard & Amy Atha-Nicholls Lynn G. Landon Marcia G. Sandground Bill Brewer & Collot Guerard Linda & Roger Lark Judy & Jack Schuyler children’s musicals Pinocchio, Puss ‘n Boots, Garden Theatre and Little Mary Sunshine; The Mal & June Fordham Helen Fisher Leitch Anne Sloan Rumpelstiltskin, and Treasure Island. A popular Apple Tree; You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown; Cheri & Roger Friedman Dan & Nancy Long Joan & Rolph Townshend entertainer in the Annapolis area for many years, The Contrast; and Carnival at Colonial Players. Frank & Verna Galloway Thea B. Pinskey William & Gazella Weigand Gessner is now retired and living in Florida. He Doris Gomoljak South Arundel Veterinary Hospital Dr. Jim Wise Frederick & Anne Hallett William & Maryada Ritchie Mary Beth & Ted Yablonski

A CHRISTMAS CAROL: ON THE SCREEN SPONSORS Jim & Judy Barrowman Dianne & Duncan Hood David & Diane Rey Chuck & Mary-Jo Bedsworth Bill & Helena Hunter Carolyn Rhoads Charles Dickens’ simple story of a man transformed by the Christmas message of Dr. Michael & Ellen Berger Robert Hyers Mr. & Mrs. J. Douglas Richardson love, generosity, and kindness toward other people has proved an irresistible lure for Pat & Karen Brown Rebecca Jones John & Constance Robinson Jean Colandrea & Jeff Hoeck Bernard & Hannah Kaufman Michele & Earl Schaffer makers of movies and television shows. The web site IMDB lists more than 200 versions Judy Crews-Hanks David & Katherine Larrabee Ed & Sue Senasack of A Christmas Carol that have played in movie theaters or been seen on television as John & Adele Degnan Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Liddick Joyce & Charles Shue Christmas specials or as episodes of a television series. Robert & Janet Downey Barbara Marder Irwin Silber Donald & Julia Erickson Para & Miller Families Dennis & Maureen Sullivan Six major motion pictures have been made since 1938, with Ebenezer Scrooge played by Carol & Joe Friend Mr. & Mrs. Gerald Oudens Carol & Allan Sures famous actors such as Albert Finney, George C. Scott, and even Bill Murray. Don’t forget Mike & JoAnn Gidos Sandy & Phil Ourisson Pat & Stephen Troy Natalie Green & Tim Heiks Edgar Paglee Judy Vandever Mr. Magoo. He starred in one of many cartoon versions of A Christmas Carol. The story Willie & Laura Gumula Jack & Vesta Harman Phiel Carolyn Wells was also adapted for the prehistoric Flintstones and the futuristic Jetsons, along with The Valerie Gutterson Dan & Joan Placido Elizabeth Wilson Muppets and Mickey Mouse. There was an all-dogs version and one for Barbie, although Tylar & Carol Ann Hecht Edward & Marcia Price Francis & Maureen Wright she presumably didn’t play Scrooge. Lisa & Richard Hillman Sandy & Ken Reinhard John & Karen Wright

- 4 - - 13 - THE STAFF (continued) THE CAST

JOAN K. TOWNSHEND costume designer for three years for Severna GREG ANDERSON Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast, Peter Pan, (Producer) Park High School’s first Rock ‘n Roll Revival (Ghost of Christmas Present, and, most recently, The Wizard of Oz. She also Joan has been active both shows. Though she has had many “jobs” with Second Gentleman) studies piano and enjoys creative writing. Remy onstage and backstage with CP, this will be her first time as costumer. Greg is excited to be back at is very excited about participating in her first Colonial Players. Her favorite Happy Holidays! CP, having first appeared in the production with The Colonial Players. roles were Praskowia in The One-Act Festival last summer. Merry Widow at AACC Opera and Ethel Savage TOM STUCKEY He is also excited to be performing again in A MACKENZIE CURRIE in The Curious Savage at CP. She has directed (Stage Manager) Christmas Carol with daughter Kaitlin Shannon. (Tim Cratchit) The Last Night of Ballyhoo, Over My Dead Body, After producingRocket Man, the A few years back, Greg, as Bob, held Kaitlin, as Mackenzie Currie, a fourth-grade and Spitfire Grill for CP. Stage managing and first show of the current season, Tiny Tim, on his shoulder in PGLT’s production. student at Arnold Elementary working in the light and sound tech booth keep Tom returns as stage manager His favorite roles with PGLT, BCT, and other School, is overjoyed to be her grounded and aware of all the pieces that for the 30th production of groups include Bobby Dwayne in The Hallelujah playing Tiny Tim in her Colonial go into making theater come alive! She sings A Christmas Carol. His favorite previous Girls; Fred Gailey in the U.S. stage premiere of Players debut. She is excited to be a part of such in two choirs and keeps busy with five children experience as stage manager was many years Miracle on 34th Street; Leon in Fools; Teddy in a talented cast in this beloved and celebrated and seven grandchildren. When not busy with ago for The Diary of Anne Frank, which he Arsenic and Old Lace; G.W. in Sordid Lives; Tin play. Mackenzie started musical theater and theater, she consults with organizations on contends had the most difficult scene change in Woodman in The Wizard of Oz; Hysterium in … dance at the age of four, and has enjoyed leadership and change management. Colonial Players history. (Other stage managers Forum; Schroeder in You’re A Good Man, Charlie performing with the Annapolis Musical Theater probably disagree.) Tom has been involved with Brown; and the big guy with the white beard Company. Her favorite performances include ANDY SERB Colonial Players since 1969, when he appeared in The Elves Who Saved Christmas, written by roles in Matilda, Oliver!, and Seussical. When (Sound Designer) in the ensemble for Carousel, and has been daughter Tiffany Shannon for Children’s Theatre she isn't singing and dancing, she can be found Andy showed up at Colonial Players in May, 2009, involved with dozens of productions onstage of Annapolis. Greg thanks Suzanne, , on a sailboat or a basketball court. She hopes to and the following day found himself operating and offstage. He currently handles newspaper Harper, and the other VIPs for their support, and continue performing with Colonial Players and the sound system for Over My Dead Body. He publicity and edits programs, along with other truly appreciates being given the opportunity to learn to play a guitar, and her biggest dream is went on to run sound and lights for Wonder of duties such as painting sets, hanging lights, work with Carol, Roger, Tom, and this talented to one day perform on the big stage. the World, Little Women, A Christmas Carol, and ushering, and serving on committees. cast and crew! 1776, and has designed sound for The Curious DR. DOUG DILLNER Savage, Chapter Two, Wit, Sister Mary Ignatius STEVE BAIRD (Undertaker’s Man, Party Guest) Explains It All For You, The Actor’s Nightmare, (Nephew Fred, Young Scrooge) This is Dr. Dillner’s ninth and In The Next Room. Andy's experience began Steve is thrilled to be making appearance in A Christmas Carol with running sound systems for numerous his debut at Colonial Players. at Colonial Players. In the past, churches and bands, which sparked his interest Previous roles include Patsy in he has been Scrooge, Marley’s and led him to broaden his horizons into more ORIGINS OF Spamalot at Annapolis Summer Ghost, Mr. Fezziwig, Ghost of Christmas Yet To technical venues. While attending the U.S. Coast A CHRISTMAS CAROL Garden Theatre and, at Laurel Mill Playhouse, Come, and is delighted to reprise his role as Guard Academy in New London, CT, he managed Giles in The Mousetrap and Sam in The Wild the Undertaker’s Man this year (still pushing Party to be Tiny Tim though!) Dr. D. started acting sound for the academy's praise band; during Charles Dickens was inspired to write . As a drummer, he has appeared in Rent in high school, and it has been his avocation those four years he stepped up as lead sound A Christmas Carol when he and future numerous pit orchestras for shows such as Shrek: The Musical ever since. He has enjoyed playing such tech and lighting coordinator forAnything Goes, British Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli at Stevenson University, at Urinetown characters as Henry Higgins (My Fair Lady) and Fiddler on the Roof, Me and My Girl, and Oliver!. spoke at an 1843 charity night. Dickens Children's Theatre of Annapolis, and the Innkeeper (Man of La Mancha) as well as a said he took a long nocturnal walk after at Heritage Players. He would like to thank his host of others. He wants to thank his wife for DIANNE ANDREW SMITH the meeting and came up with the idea friends and family for their support, especially putting up with his avocation and especially (Costume Designer) for his “ book.” He wrote his wonderful girlfriend, Elsbeth, for keeping wants to thank his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ Dianne has been a member of obsessively for six weeks, finishing the him sane during back-to-back shows. for all he has brought to him. The Colonial Players “family” novella at the end of November so it for many years. She made her could be published before Christmas. REMY BROWNE (Fanny Phantom) KIRSTI DIXON first stage appearance at Players It went on sale December 17, and sold (Ghost of Christmas Past) in Godspell, then Carnival, Tricks, and several out in three days. Remy is nine years old and a summers in Cabaret for Kids. Dianne graduated fourth-grade student at Mayo Kirsti is very excited to be in from Maryland Institute College of Art with a Elementary School. She is a her first production with The BFA in design. Her first professional job was to member of the Royal Academy Colonial Players. She has been design and create her roommate’s bridal gown of Dance under the tutelage of Eileen Razetti. involved in theater since high and the bridesmaids’ dresses. She was the She has performed in the recitals: Snow White, school, when she performed in the fall musicals - 12 - - 5 - THE CAST (continued) THE CAST (continued) and in three years of Rock ‘n Roll Revival at and check it off his bucket list, here he is. Along Academy of Ballet in Purchase, NY. She has and as excited as she was to have gotten the Severna Park High School. At the University of with family, singing has always been on top of also danced in many of the Academy Ballet chance to be a part of this show. Maryland College Park, Kirsti sang in an all-girl his “to do” list, with plenty of time spent in choir School's productions, and most recently she a capella group called The UMD Treblemakers practice and singing in the shower. “Thank you, was Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz. She has never SARAH WADE and performed in and directed many student- Darice and Jim, for your vote of confidence!” been part of any Colonial Players productions (Charwoman) run productions such as The 25th Annual before, but would like to thank her ballet Sarah is very pleased to be Putnam County Spelling Bee (Olive), A Very DEAN FISHER teacher, Mrs.Razzetti, as well as Mrs. Youmans back in A Christmas Carol as Potter Musical (Ginny, Co-director), and AVPS (Bob Cratchit) for giving her the opportunity to be a part of the Charwoman. She was most (Luna, Co-director). She would like to thank her This is Dean’s first stage role something so special. recently seen on the CP stage as family and her boyfriend for always being so ever. He is crossing one item off Catherine Donahue in These Shining Lives. Prior supportive of her theatrical passion. of his bucket list by performing ALLISON VALLIANT to that, she had the pleasure of performing at in A Christmas Carol this year. (Laundress) Dignity Players as Lisa Morrison in Collected MICHAEL N. DUNLOP Dean’s annual reading of A Christmas Carol to Allison is thrilled to be a part of Stories. Back on the CP stage, she was the (Ebenezer Scrooge) his three children has been the highlight of his the cast of A Christmas Carol. Star to Be in Annie, Jessica in Communicating Michael is very happy and holiday seasons these past twenty years or so. This is her first production with Doors, and before that, Kitty in Taking Steps. excited to return to The Colonial He was surprised to learn that the show would the Colonial Players. Allison, At Compass Rose Theater, she appeared as Bet Players as Scrooge in this year's entail singing and dancing as well as acting, who has a B.A. in theater, is a 2010 graduate and the Strawberry Seller in Oliver! and sound production ofA Christmas Carol. but he showed up to audition anyway. Dean is of Washington College, where she was cast in designer for their productions of The Miracle In the mid- 80s, Mike was in the cast for two honored to have been selected for the role of numerous roles, including Mrs. Miller in Doubt, Worker and To Kill a Mockingbird. She would productions, with Marvin Hunter as Scrooge the Bob Cratchit as one of the many things he does Helen in Fat Pig, and a Protean in A Funny Thing like to thank Lois Evans and Carol Cohen for first year and Dan Higgs as Scrooge the following is work with Maryland’s local governments Happened on the Way to the Forum, to name a teaching her so much, Eric for everything, and year. He is honored to be in such company. and non-profits on energy efficiency programs few. She would like to thank her parents, sister, her friends and family for always understanding Previously, Michael worked with several local that benefit low and moderate income people. other family, and friends for being so supportive that, "I can't, I have rehearsal." production companies, including Colonial Dean raises his cup to all who have supported, Players, where he appeared in Something's indulged, and enabled his desire to be in this Afoot, Sly Fox, A Funny Thing Happened on the play. Bless us all! Way to the Forum, and Trying. He was recently seen in the Compass Rose Studio Theater's To VAN FISHER THE STAFF Kill a Mockingbird and Prince George’s Little (The Man) Theatre's productions of Deathtrap and Don't Van is excited to have his first- Dress for Dinner. He also been active with ever acting role in this year's A ERIC GASIOR CONSTANCE ROBINSON Bowie Community Theatre, appearing in a Christmas Carol. He has really (Lighting Designer) (Properties Designer) number of productions, including Daddy's Girl, enjoyed getting to the know Eric is proud to be working In past years, Connie has Dearly Departed, and Dearly Beloved. Michael The Colonial Players community through his with The Colonial Players volunteered as marketing has been a SAG AFTRA member since 1988 and participation in this play. Van plays lacrosse on his second production assistant and graphic designer has acted in film, television, and commercial and attends Broadneck High School. “I wish the after designing lights for last for Colonial Players in addition video productions in the Baltimore/Washington merriest of to you and yours.” summer’s One-Act Festival, This or That. Other to manning the phone at the box office. In 2013, market, with a recent role in Veep on HBO. credits include lighting design in Baltimore she worked as properties designer for Collected He is the owner and operator of Dove Video PATTI GRIEB with the Yellow Sign Theatre (Darkspell) and Stories with Dignity Players. For the 2013-14 Productions in Annapolis. This company supports (Party Guest) Fluid Movement (Hound Dog Crew, Gliteracy: A CP season, she enjoyed being the properties producers with a variety of video services. Patti joins the cast of Colonial Book Review). He worked on the tech crew in designer for In The Next Room, Or The Vibrator Players’ A Christmas Carol for Washington for The Rude Mechanicals (Henry Play; the sold-out musical Annie; and Dead PETER EGLITIS the 14th time in the last 20 years. VI, The Importance of Being Earnest). Since 2009, Man's Cell Phone. She was properties designer (Mr. Fezziwig, Third Gentleman) This year, she appears as Party he has been the technical director for Balticon, for Rocket Man, the opening production of the This is Peter’s first performance Guest, Bump Woman, and Mean Aunt. Over the largest Mid-Atlantic literary science fiction current season. “It is a pleasure working again as an adult with The Colonial the years of participating in this production, convention, and was the technical director for with Director Carol Youmans for this wonderful Players…, or anywhere else for Patti has played many roles, including Mrs. Fred, the North American Discworld Convention in musical.” Connie thanks her husband, John, for that matter! He had a dream; Mrs. Fezziwig, Charwoman, Laundress, and, two 2013. In his spare time, he is a systems engineer his support, and also appreciates when family then he woke up! It has been over 30 years since years ago, Ghost of Christmas Past. When not at Millennial Media in Baltimore. and friends donate props. Peter appeared on stage in a middle school performing her full-time job as office manager production, and in an effort to fill another slot for a busy dental practice, Patti enjoys travel,

- 6 - - 11 - THE CAST (continued) THE CAST (continued) loves to help her clients find new homes. Kaitlin DANIEL STARNES Jazzercise, and spending time with her hubby, KAELYNN MILLER would like to dedicate this performance to Kevin (Peter Cratchit, Dick Wilkins) four children, and six grandchildren. She would (Mrs. Cratchit) and Baxter. Daniel, an 11th grade honor like to thank all of the production staff, cast, and Kaelynn is delighted to be a part roll student at Southern High crew for another wonderful production. of her second A Christmas Carol ANDREW “DREW” SHARPE School, is proud to make his production. Favorite onstage (Scrooge as a boy, Turkey Boy) fifth consecutive appearance ANNA GRACE KELLER credits at CP include Annie Drew (age 12) is excited to in CP’s A Christmas Carol. He continues toward (Belinda Cratchit) (Grace Farrell), 1776 (Martha Jefferson), and be performing in his third his goal of one day appearing in every speaking Anna Grace is a seventh-grade Moonlight and Magnolias (Miss Poppenghul), production of A Christmas male role in this endearing Annapolis tradition. student attending Severna Park with behind-the-scenes credits on too many Carol with The Colonial Players. Daniel has appeared in various local theater Middle School. She was just five shows to count. Last year, Kaelynn was nominated He has also appeared as Tiny Tim (2012) and productions. Some of his recent and favorite years old when she appeared for two Washington Area Theatre Community Boy Ebenezer (2010). His other theater credits roles have been Abel/Japheth in Children of in her first musical, School House Rock. Anna Honors awards: one for her portrayal as Martha include: Young Abel, Storyteller in Children of Eden and Barnaby in Hello, Dolly!, both at 2nd Grace continued acting and appeared in musical Jefferson and one for the craziest costume Eden (2014) with 2nd Star Productions in Bowie; Star, 9 to 5 at Southern High School, Leather performances, including Annie JR and Mulan creations ever in Shipwrecked! At CP, Kaelynn Amahl in Amahl and the Night Visitors (2013) Apron in 1776 at Colonial Players, Ren in JR. Her inaugural Colonial Players’ performance serves as treasurer and membership chair. She with Opera AACC (Anne Arundel Community Footloose at AACC Kids in College, and Freidrich was as Duffy in Annie. She is an accomplished pays her bills by working as a customer service College); the Narrator in Into the Woods (2013) in The Sound of Music at Compass Rose Theater. pianist and flutist. Anna Grace enjoys playing representative in the music industry, which with Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre; When not onstage, Daniel loves ping-pong, DC goalie for her select A division field hockey actually sort of relates to her Bachelor's degree Thomas in Sister Mary Ignatius Explains It All For Comics, and video games. Daniel would like to team, is an avid ski racer, and loves fostering in Music and Vocal Performance. Kaelynn You (2013) with Bay Theatre Company. Drew is thank the wonderful CP production staff and his animals for the SPCA. She would like to thank wishes a Christmas season full of hot cocoa a chamber singer with the All Children's Chorus teachers, friends, and family who support his her family and friends for their support. and hippopotamussesses to all the people who of Annapolis; he also likes to play the piano acting addiction/hobby. make her smile on a daily basis. and trumpet. Outside of the arts, he's an active ALLISON MARTIN 6th grader. He would like to thank his directors FRED TAYLOR (Martha Cratchit) AVA PHILLIPS for this opportunity and his family for all their (Ghost of Jacob Marley, First Alley is very excited to be in her (Fanny) support! Happy Holidays! Gentlemen) first show at Colonial Players This is Ava's first performance Fred is thrilled to return to the as Martha Cratchit. Alley is a with Colonial Players. She spends DEB SOLA Colonial Players stage, where he junior at Southern High School. a lot of time in the performing (Mrs. Fezziwig) has appeared in A Christmas Carol Some of her credits include Judy Bernly in 9 to arts world. Along with playing Deb is thrilled to be joining The as well as 1776, Busie Body, Death of a Salesman, 5, Rita in Thoroughly Modern Millie, the Witch the violin, flute, and piano, she sings and has Colonial Players as Mrs. Fezziwig Rebecca, and Arcadia. He has also performed with in Into the Woods, and Gertrude McFuzz in participated in various choral groups. Her acting for this, her first production Pasadena Theatre Company. He failed retirement Seussical. Alley would like to thank her family, experience includes summer programs and with the company, as well as in 1996 and is currently the courtside announcer friends, and fellow cast members for all of their workshops at Childrens Theatre of Annapolis. her first experience performing in a theater- for UMBC's basketball programs, a tour guide ongoing support. Ask her and she will tell you, "I love acting.” in-the-round! Deb has performed with 2nd with Watermark, and the official Town Crier for Star Productions with ensemble roles in Little Annapolis. He dedicates his performance to: "My KATHERINE MCMORROW KAITLIN SHANNON Shop of Horrors and Hello, Dolly! Deb plays entire support team from Catonsville to Durham. (Belle) (Fred’s Wife) a “Geek” during the day in her role as a high NC and everywhere in between, especially my Katie is very excited to be joining Kaitlin is thrilled to be making school computer science teacher and loves eight grandchildren. Love you ALL. And to Carol, The Colonial Players family with her Colonial Players debut in being back on the stage again! Many moons and her entire production team, backstage crew, her first appearance in our A Christmas Carol! She’s also ago, she participated in high school, college, and terrific cast, a gazillion thank yous. God Bless production ofA Christmas Carol. very excited to be sharing the and community productions. Her years of Everyone! Merry Christmas!" Primarily a vocalist, she has performed with stage again with her stepfather, Greg Anderson. dedication as a church musician, cantor, and various bands and choruses around Maryland. Kaitlin is so glad to be returning to the theater prior member of the Columbia Pro-Cantare ANNA THOMAS Sixteen years old, she performs with her school, after being away from it for far too long. She’s choir have helped to keep her vocal chops up. (Belle Phantom, Choreographer) South River High School, in Rock and Soul Revue. been seen in previous productions with 2nd Star She considers herself a “Top-Chef” in her own Anna Thomas is a 17-year-old She is pleased to take on a serious acting role at and PGLT and has worked with her sister, Tiffany kitchen and lives to travel. Hugs and love to my senior at Broadneck High School. Colonial Players. Shannon, at the Children’s Theatre of Annapolis. supportive husband and family who make every She has lived in Annapolis for 12 She would like to thank the cast and crew for day of my life joyous! years and has danced with The a wonderful experience and for such a fun way Academy Ballet School for the past 10 years. to spend this festive time of year! When she’s This summer she danced with the American not performing, Kaitlin works as a Realtor and - 10 - - 7 - 66th Season • 346th Season Production

THE COLONIAL THE CAST PLAYERS, INC. (in order of appearance) presents Bob Cratchit...... Dean Fisher Ebenezer Scrooge...... Michael Dunlop Nephew Fred...... Steve Baird First Gentleman...... Fred Taylor Second Gentleman...... Greg Anderson Mistletoe Man...... Van Fisher Ghost of Jacob Marley...... Fred Taylor Ghost of Christmas Past...... Kirsti Dixon Scrooge as a Boy...... Andrew Sharpe Fanny...... Ava Phillips Dick Wilkins...... Daniel Starnes Book and Lyrics by Young Scrooge...... Steve Baird RICHARD WADE Mr. Fezziwig...... Peter Eglitis Mrs. Fezziwig...... Deb Sola Music by Belle...... Katherine McMorrow DICK GESSNER Belle Phantom...... Anna Thomas Fanny Phantom...... Kaitlyn Alsina (Nov. 28-30), Directed by Remy Browne (Dec. 4-14) CAROL YOUMANS Ghost of Christmas Present...... Greg Anderson Mrs. Cratchit...... Kaelynn Miller Belinda Cratchit...... Anna Grace Keller Peter Cratchit...... Daniel Starnes Martha Cratchit...... Allison Martin Tim Cratchit...... Mackenzie Currie TIME AND PLACE Fred’s Wife...... Kaitlin Shannon The play takes place in the streets of Victorian London and in the Party Guest...... Patti Grieb counting house and bedchamber of Ebenezer Scrooge. In the Party Guest...... Doug Dillner revelations of the ghosts and in Scrooge’s memory, we are transported Undertaker’s Man...... Doug Dillner to times and places of Scrooge’s past, present and future. Laundress...... Allison Valliant Charwoman...... Sarah Wade Produced by special arrangement with the authors. Taking photographs and using any recording devices are strictly prohibited. Third Gentleman...... Peter Eglitis Smoking is prohibited throughout the building. Turkey Boy...... Andrew Sharpe

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