A Dickensian Cody Nickell popped into the office during break in full costume to say. “Yo-Yo Ma’s Christmas Album”. Apparently it’s worth a listen. It seems to be Marley-Cody’s holiday “jam”, if you will.

Cody Nickell in Gulfshore Playhouse’s production of Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol

I really cannot believe it’s the holiday season. Mostly because I’m not bundled up to my eyelashes in scarves, comforters, wool coats and hats while sitting next to a roaring fire. I can’t lie, I am SO glad I don’t have to buy an ice scraper for my car windows this season. I’m still driving around with the windows open, for goodness sake!

We began tech rehearsals this week for JACOB MARLEY’S CHRISTMAS CAROL. We open on Friday, and this show is going to be spectacular! Really, it already is. Cody does a sensational job stepping in and out of characters seamlessly. His expert touch and great heart in his performance cannot be missed. As Kristen expressed beautifully in her blog yesterday, skilled actors like Cody give to us access to our own emotions. And let me tell you, if you don’t feel anything while watching this show, you are a Scrooge that no Marley could save! It is absolutely stunning.

The set and lighting and sound and costumes…wow! This design team has created one of the most impressive and visual/aurally stunning shows I’ve seen. And Kristen, The ever-unstoppable-brilliant-and-collaborative, has yet again created a truly dynamic and honest example of not only a timeless holiday story, but also a top-notch theatrical experience. Get your tickets while you can.

I love this time of year. I’m taking Cody’s advice and finding Yo-Yo Ma’s holiday album on iTunes. I’m stopping by tech rehearsals every moment I can. I’m giddy for opening night this Friday. I’m filled with the joy of Christmas Present so real in this production that I could burst into song or laughter at any moment…and I probably will.