CHARACTERS & PLAYERS
in their familial order

THE SCROOGES
DAVID COFFEE* as EBENEZER SCROOGE, a tight-fisted hand at the grindstone. A squeezing, wrenching, grasping, scraping, clutching, covetous old sinner. MICHAEL KAYNE* as YOUNG SCROOGE, a clever chap, bright of face and filled with great potential, (also Christmas Future). PAUL CASTREE* as FRED, handsome nephew of old Scrooge, with a cheerful voice and sparkling eyes. HAVILAND STILLWELL as MEG, Fred's wife, very pretty with a dimpled, surprised look. NILI BASSMAN* as BELLE, Young Scrooge's betrothed, a fair maiden, beaming and loveable. SAMANTHA GOOBER as FAN, Scrooge's sister, brimful of glee.

THE CRATCHITS
JAY DOUGLAS* as NARRATOR , the teller of this ghostly tale. TODD GROSS* as BOB CRATCHIT, a clerk in the service of Ebenezer Scrooge and the father of a fine family. MAUREEN BRENNAN* as MRS. CRATCHIT, Bob's wife, poor in possessions but rich in family, (also Christmas Past). EMMA BARBIN as MARTHA CRATCHIT, oldest of the Cratchit daughters, (also Christmas Past's attendant). MATT MARQUART as PETER CRATCHIT, poor but gallantly attired. MOLLY HAGERTY as BELINDA CRATCHIT, second of the Cratchit daughters. MEDLEY LONG as TINY TIM CRATCHIT, thoughtful and brave with his little crutch and his goodly heart.

THE SPIRITS
TOM STAGGS* as JACOB MARLEY, Scrooge's first and only business partner; dead as a doornail. MAUREEN BRENNAN* as THE GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PAST, the first of the three spirits, a strange figure - resplendent in stars, (also Mrs. Cratchit). GEORGE DVORSKY* as THE GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT, a jolly giant, glorious to behold, (also a Gentlemen). MICHAEL KAYNE* as THE GHOST OF CHRISTMAS YET TO COME, Scrooge's nightmare of himself as a young man, (also Young Scrooge). KATHY MEYER*, TABB * and STANLEY SILVERMAN (violin), as PEARLIES, acrobatic street entertainers who perform for donations to help London's poor. One is a violinist who accents many scenes with underscoring. Pearlies long topcoats were typically covered with pearl buttons, hence the name. In our story, they help the narrator tell the tale by becoming timeless characters who attend the Spirits and help move the action of the play.

THE FEZZIWIGS
RICHARD E. WAITS* as MR. FEZZIWIG, voluminous in his great jovial benevolence, (also a Gentleman). CHERYL McMAHON* as MRS. FEZZIWIG, one vast substantial smile, (also Mrs. Tugby, a widow and Mrs. Dilber).

REVELERS, TOWNSFOLK, PARASITES & OTHERS
CHERYL McMAHON* as MRS. DILBER, Scrooge's housekeeper and therefore a Christian martyr. MATTHEW NALL as JOE, keeper of the Beetling shop and Poulterer. JOSHUA GLIDDEN and JEFFREY MITCHELL as TURKEY BOYS, a couple of poor English street urchins. BREANNA BRADLEE, JOHN BREEN, LANDON R. KOMISHANE and MOLLY KATHERINE WELENC as IGNORANCE & WANT, sad stricken things. CASEY HUSHION*, JULIE FORESTER, JONATHAN SEXSMITH, ADAM SOUZA and LAURIE BERICH as CAROLERS & BELL RINGERS. EDIE SHIPLEY, as REHEARSAL ACCOMPANIST. CASEY HUSHION*, as ASSISTANT DIRECTOR and DANCE CAPTAIN. LAURIE SILIPIGNO*, as ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGER. KEITH THOMPSPN as ORCHESTRATOR. MAUREEN BOUDROW and JOLANTA SUDBAY as ASL INTERPRTERS, and KENDRA TIMKO as the DEAF CONSUTANT. 

Special Thanks to N.Y.U., Sarah Hart, Matt Waszen, Professor William Wesbrooks, Dr. Lawrence Ferrara, Matt Castle, Gagnon Shoe Repair.

MUSICIANS
JANET GLAZENER ROMA as MUSICAL DIRECTOR and playing KEYBOARDS and STANLEY SILVERMAN playing VIOLIN, (also a Pearlie). ERNEST SOLA III playing WOODWINDS. WALTER BOSTIAN playing TROMBONE. JAY DALY playing CORNET. ALYSSA COFFEY playing FRENCH HORN. JOHN BUMSTEAD playing CELLO. JOSEPH HIGGINS playing BASS. EMILY LEWIS HALPERN playing HARP. VIRGINIA CRUMB playing HARP. REBECCA PLUMMER & MARCIA MEDVITZ also playing KEYBOARD.

* Member, Actors Equity Association

Scenic Designer  HOWARD C. JONES                                     
Lighting Designer  KENDALL SMITH
Original Costume Designer  NANCY LEARY
Additional Costume Designer JAY WOODS
Wig Designer GERARD KELLY                    
Sound Designer JOHN A. STONE                        
Production Stage Manager ERIK E. HEDBLOM
Music Director JANET GLAZENER ROMA
Director/Choreographer GREG GANAKAS

WHO'S WHO IN THE CAST
David Coffee (Ebenezer Scrooge) With NSMT: The Wizard of Oz, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat , Fiddler on the Roof, My Fair Lady, A Christmas Carol (1992-2001), Phantom (1992 and 1994),  Singin' In the Rain, Grand Hotel, Brigadoon, South Pacific, Evita, Good News!, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, The Will Rogers Follies, West Side Story, Crazy For You, La Cage Aux Folles, The Music Man, and 42nd Street. Elsewhere: David is honored to return for his eleventh season as Scrooge! This year has seen him reprise his portrayal of Tevye for Casa Mañana's production of Fiddler on the Roof at Fort Worth's Bass Performance Hall, appear as Doctor Dolittle and Gepetto in Pinocchio for Casa's Children's Playhouse, perform in industrials for Mary Kay and Loews Hotels, voiced the role of Badger for an animation test of The Fantastic Mr. Fox as well as enjoying his appearance as the Cowardly Lion in NSMT's record-breaking production of The Wizard of Oz. Many thanks for your many generosities. Happy Holidays to all! For more information, community-2.webtv.net/DavidCoffee/THEDAVIDCOFFEEWEB

Jay Douglas (Narrator) with NSMT: Cabaret, Tommy, 42nd Street, A Christmas Carol ‘95, ‘97.Elsewhere: New York credits include the original Broadway company of The Full Monty, where he took over the role of Malcolm; Broadway's Miss Saigon, as Chris; Off-Broadway, The Fantasticks,  as Matt, and the Mute; featured performer in An Evening With Charles Strouse, at the 92nd St. Y.  He also performed song and dance jingles for the short lived NBC primetime Dana Carvey Show. Regional credits include; Stephen in Old Wicked Songs at San Jose Rep; Natty in Glimmerglass at Goodspeed Opera House; Mozart in Amadeus; Bobby in Crazy For You; Will Parker in Oklahoma!; Lon in Meet Me in St. Louis.

George Dvorsky (The Ghost of Christmas Present, Gentleman) With NSMT: The Wizard of Oz, Secret Garden,1776,My One and Only, Damn Yankees, Oklahoma, Brigadoon, On the Town, Grand Night for Singing, and 10 years as the Ghost of Christmas Present in A Christmas Carol. Elsewhere: Broadway roles: The Scarlet Pimpernel, Gentleman Prefer Blondes, Passion, Marilyn: An American Fable and The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas. Off-Broadway: George starred as Pete Bartel in Pete N' Keely, Dames at Sea and And The World Goes ‘Round. George starred in the NYC Premiere of Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella as Prince Charming at Lincoln Center where he also played Tommy in Brigadoon. He starred as Billy Crocker opposite Chita Rivera in Anything Goes (Paper Mill Playhouse) and with Bea Arthur and the Boston Pops in "Bernstein's Broadway" on PBS. Solo CD, "In the Still of the Night" is available on Jay Records. His new recording "This is Christmas" is on sale in the lobby. www.georgedvorsky.com.
 
Maureen Brennan (Mrs. Cratchit/Ghost of Christmas Past) WITH NSMT: A Christmas Carol ‘99- ‘01, Showboat, My Fair Lady, Penelope.  ELSEWHERE: Maureen has appeared on Broadway in Candide(Tony nomination and Theatre World Award), Going Up, Knickerbocker Holiday, Little Johnny Jones, and Stardust.  She toured nationally as Mabel in Pirates of Penzance. Regional credits include You Can't Take It With You, Annie Get Your Gun, She Loves Me, Carousel, 42nd Street and I Do, I Do.  She has been a featured soloist with may symphony orchestras including the Boston Pops, Baltimore, Detroit, Minnesota, Philadelphia and Pittsburgh Symphonies. Ms. Brennan can also be heard on the soundtrack recordings of Disney's "Beauty and the Beast," "Aladdin," and "The Hunchback of Notre Dame." She is currently a member of the Theater faculty at The Boston Conservatory. In July, 2002 she participated in the Sundance Theatre Institute, performing in two new works: The light In the Piazza and Bel Canto. "Joyous holidays to all!"

Tom Staggs (Jacob Marley) With NSMT: Fiddler on the Roof, A Christmas Carol '99 -‘01. Elsewhere: Most recently he appeared in New York at the Chekhov Now Festival as Solyóny in Three Sisters. Other NY credits include Ford Prefect in Don't Panic (Reverie Productions), Don Juan in Dom Juan and Ralph VanDyke in The Woman (The Metropolitan Playhouse). With Gorilla Rep: Quince in A Midsummer Night's Dream, Cloten in Cymbeline and Mordred in The Death of King Arthur (world premiere). Other productions include Hedda Gabler, Woyzcek and Brigadoon. For television, "Manhattan Crawl," pilot (Stella Nova Productions). Short films include, "Es Verdad" and "The Physicists." Tom trained at the University of Illinois and at Drama Studio London.

Michael Kayne (Young Scrooge, The Ghost of Christmas Future) with NSMT: A Christmas Carol '97 -‘00. Elsewhere: Michael is glad to be returning to NSMT for this year's production of A Christmas Carol.  NY credits include the Inverse Theater Company's Icarus & Aria (Icarus), Lanie Robertson's The Trial of Mrs. Surratt (John Wilkes Booth, World Premiere), Disney's Pre-Broadway Workshop of Hoopz (choreographed by Savion Glover), and participating in Lincoln Center's The World of Nick Adams with Julia Roberts, Gwyneth Paltrow, Meryl Streep, Paul Newman, and Kevin Kline.  "Thanks to my family, Carrie, and Onofre."

Todd Gross (Bob Cratchit) with NSMT: Fiddler on the Roof, A Christmas Carol '00,‘01, Elsewhere: On Broadway, Todd played the role of Bob Cratchit for 2 seasons in A Christmas Carol at New York's Madison Square Garden opposite the Scrooges of: Roddy McDowall, Hal Linden and Roger Daltry. His touring credits include playing  2nd Officer Charles Lightoller in the 1st National Company of Titanic and My Fair Lady starring Richard Chamberlain. New York Workshops include Anna Karenina (Levin, Circle in the Square) and Brothers (Emil Bernhard, Home for Contemporary Arts). Regionally Todd has appeared in the R.I. Shakespeare Festival, AMTF, McCarter Theatre, American Stage Com., and Theatre Virginia. He was seen in the world premiere of Joshua Sobel's Ghetto and Harry Parch's Revelation in the Courthouse Park(CD). His television credits include Sex in the City, Trinity and Sesame Street.

Paul Castree (Fred) with NSMT: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, A Christmas Carol '01. Elsewhere: Broadway: Original casts of Saturday Night Fever (Bobby C), Footloose (Garvin), The Scarlet Pimpernel, Grease! (Eugene), starring Rosie O'Donnell and the 20th Anniversary Concert of Dreamgirls (Dave). National Tour: Bye, Bye Birdie (Harvey Johnson) starring Tommy Tune and Ann Reinking.  Off-Broadway/ Regional: Forever Plaid (Jinx) - L.A. Ovation and Dora Award (Best Actor in a Musical), Where's Charlie? (Leslie Wilkinson) at W.T.F. and Dreamgirls (Dave) at T.O.T.S., starring Jennifer Holliday. TV: Caroline in the City (Caroline's Brother Chris).

Cheryl McMahon (Mrs. Dilbur, Mrs. Fezziwig, Mrs. Tugby) With NSMT:A Christmas Carol ‘89, ‘91-‘93, ‘95-‘01, Sweeney Todd, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, Alice in Wonderland, The Student Prince. Elsewhere: Cheryl just finished the world premiere of Marty, starring John C. Reilly (Huntington Theater). This summer Cheryl appeared as Annie in Stephen King's Misery (American Stage Festival). Boston audiences may remember Cheryl in Lend Me a Tenor (Lyric Stage), Nine (Publick Theatre), Shear Madness (Charles Playhouse), Nunsense (Charles Playhouse) Anne of Green Gables (Wheelock Family Theater), Cabaret (Hasty Pudding Theatre), and Yiddle with a Fiddle (Cambridge Theater Co.). Other New England credits: Worcester Foothills Theater, Gloucester Stage Co., and the New Repertory Theater. With fellow actresses, Leigh Barrett and Sarah DeLima, one of Cheryl's current projects is a musical tribute to motherhood entitled, Been There, Done That, Can I Get Directions?

Tabb (Pearlie) with NSMT: A Christmas Carol ‘95-'97, ‘01 Elsewhere: Tabb was an original member of Anti-Gravity (NY Based acrobatic Dance Company) with whom he performed the opening Broadway Segment of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, as well as the Easter show at Radio City Music Hall, City Center's Encores! production of Lady in the Dark and several productions at the NY City Opera.  As a native of Chattanooga, TN he has spent the past year giving a little back to the studio that started his career, hopefully training young dancers to be Pearlies in future productions of A Christmas Carol. "Much love to family and friends, and to Ralph - thanks for your compassion and support XOXOX!"

Kathy Meyer (Pearlie) With NSMT: Chicago, Footloose, Carousel, Sweet Charity, Grease, Victor/Victoria, Kismet, A Christmas Carol ('96, '98 - ‘01), West Side Story, 42nd Street. Elsewhere: Kathy began her year at NSMT as a teacher for the Education Department's Advanced Music Theatre Master Class.  She then performed Footloose and Chicago here at NSMT and she appeared in My Fair Lady, in Atlanta and Dallas. Some of her favorite roles include Anybodys in West Side Story, Louise in Carousel, Kathy in Company and a Pearlie in A Christmas Carol. Kathy looks forward to spending time teaching and performing at NSMT in 2003. "Happy Holidays!"

Richard E. Waits (Mr. Fezziwig, Gentleman) With NSMT: Ragtime. Elsewhere: Richard is thrilled to return to NSMT, hails from Buffalo, NY, where he started his career 21 years ago in a television commercial with the legendary Ginger Rogers. Recent credits include: Ragtime (Worcester Foothills Theatre), Dreamgirls starring Jennifer Holliday (T. O. T. S.  Atlanta, GA), Ragtime (NSMT) Dreamgirls Concert (Broadway), Fangs (NYC) La Cage Aux Folles (Paris, France), Ain't Misbehavin' (Amsterdam, Holland). "‘Love and thanks', to his sister Kay, niece Nicole, Acting teacher ‘guru' Sande Shurin (NYC) friends Chris March, Larry Vrba, the "other" family and to CoCo - without you, I am nothing."

Nili Bassman (Belle) with NSMT: A Christmas Carol ‘01. Elsewhere: This past year, Nili portrayed Mary Rockwell, opposite Mark Jacoby, in the workshop of Rockwell (John Shuck, dir.). Nili also starred as Ginger Rogers in the workshop of Ginger (Marshall Mason, dir.), with Donna McKechnie and Randy Skinner.  Regional credits: Goodspeed Opera House, Kennedy Center, Pittsburgh CLO and a guest solo performance with Marvin Hamlish and the Pittsburgh Pops.  New York appearances: The Blue Heron, Confluence Theatre Company, Blue Rose Productions.  Film and Television: "Wonderboys," Anna in "The Christmas Tree" (with Julie Harris - Sally Field, dir.), Gwen in "The Contender" (UPN pilot) and numerous industrials and commercials. Originally from Northern VA, Nili has a BFA from Point Park College.

Haviland Stillwell (Meg) with NSMT: Debut. Elsewhere: Haviland Stillwell is currently a senior at New York University, working towards a Bachelor of Music in Music Theatre. She was last seen in New York City playing Marie in Fiorello!, choreographed by Baayork Lee. She has worked regionally in Atlanta at Theatre in the Square and Actors Express. Her television and film credits include ‘Fried Green Tomatoes', ‘I'll Fly Away', and ‘Spider Man'. Other theatre credits: Old Maid and the Thief (Laetitia), West Side Story (Maria), Carousel (Carrie), and Anything Goes (Hope). 

Matthew Nall (Joe) with NSMT: Debut. Elsewhere: Matthew is currently pursuing his currently pursuing his Masters in Music Theatre at New York University where he has performed in productions of Mikado, Fiddler on the Roof, Old Maid and the Thief and Jacques Brel. He received his undergraduate degree in classical music from Texas Tech University where he appeared in Don Giovanni, Into the Woods, Die Fledermaus and Paint Your Wagon. "Thanks to Hillary, B.J., Tom and Carl for all your support over the last 11 years."

Casey Hushion (Caroler /Bells, Assistant Director, Dance Captain) with NSMT: Fiddler on the Roof, Hair, Secret Garden, A Christmas Carol ‘98- ‘01. Elsewhere: Casey is thrilled to be back performing in and assistant directing A Christmas Carol for the 5th year. Casey spent the summer performing in Babes in Arms at Goodspeed Opera House and the fall assistant directing Annie at Paper Mill Playhouse.  In addition to working with Greg Ganakas on more than 15 productions, Casey has directed/choreographed shows at North Carolina Theatre, Cape Fear Regional Theatre and Arundel Bam Playhouse.  This June, Casey is co-directing her biggest production yet - a wedding to her fiancé, Mark Kessler.
 
Julie Forester (Caroler /Bells) with NSMT: Debut. Elsewhere: Julie is thrilled to be back in America after working and living in London, England for the past 6 months.  Julie received her Master of Arts degree in Vocal Performance at NYU this past May and was involved in many NYU events and productions including Fiddler on the Roof and Guys and Dolls.  Other favorite credits include The Sound of Music (Maria), Annie Warbucks (Mrs. Kelly) and The Apple Tree (Passionella). "My most sincere thanks to Dan, Mom and Dad, Whitney, Jay and Greg."

Jonathan Sexsmith (Caroler /Bells) With NSMT: Debut. Elsewhere: Jonathan is thrilled to be taking part in A Christmas Carol at such a wonderful theatre NSMT. He recently graduated in May from NYU receiving a B.M with a specialization in Voice, and Musical Theatre, where he enjoyed playing roles ranging from Fyedka, in a Fiddler on the Roof to performing as a soloist at Radio City Music Hall for NYU's commencement ceremony. He thanks his Parents, Gary, Lynne, Norma, Greg and Lori for all their help and support. 

Adam Souza (Caroler /Bells) With NSMT: Debut. Elsewhere: This is Adam's first show with NSMT and is he very pleased to be here.  Off-Broadway credits include Summer of '42. Regional: Brigadoon and George M! (Goodspeed Musicals.)  A junior at the Boston Conservatory, Adam was seen in The Secret Garden, The Screams of Kitty Genovese, The Captain's Daughter, and music directed The Fantasticks and The Secret Garden.  He was a soloist with the Boston Pops in their salute to Richard Rogers.

Emma Barbin (Martha Cratchit) with NSMT: The Wizard of Oz, A Christmas Carol '01. Elsewhere: Emma is thrilled to be back at NSMT! Recent performances include The Pajama Game, The Sound of Music and the title role in Cinderella. A freshman at Beverly High School, Emma enjoys dancing, singing, acting and is wild about musical theatre.  "Thanks to NSMT for giving me this opportunity again, and thanks to my family and friends for all their love and support."

Laurie Berich (Teen Caroler) with NSMT: Annie, Honk!, Peter Pan, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, A Christmas Carol (98-01), Honk! Jr.  Elsewhere: Laurie is very happy to be back at NSMT for the Christmas season. She made her Academy Theatre debut at Danvers High appearing in The Miracle Worker (Helen Keller) and Crazy For You. Favorite roles include Ida in Honk! Jr, Andrea in Once on this Island and the Narrator in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. "Thanks to friends and family for your love and encouragement."

Breanna Bradlee (Want) with NSMT: Debut. Elsewhere: Breanna is a first grader at Christian Learning Center in Saugus. Although Breanna has done various TV and modeling, she is very excited to be performing onstage for the first time with NSMT. Breanna takes weekly Drama classes at Kids Curtain Call Stage Production in Wakefield. Breanna studies piano and violin. She enjoys riding her bike, drawing, singing, dancing, and playing with her family pets.

John Breen (Ignorance) with NSMT: The Wizard of Oz. Elsewhere: John is a first grade student at the Barron Elementary School in Salem, NH.  "A special thank you to my sisters Sarah, Ruthie and Emily for all of your support."

Joshua Glidden (Turkey Boy) with NSMT: Debut. Elsewhere: Joshua, the youngest of 4 children, is a resident of Beverly, MA.  He is a 5th grader at Hannah Elementary School Joshua loves to sing and act and participates in all class productions and music shows. He has also performed in many skits while he was a member of the Cub Scouts. 

Samantha Goober (Fan) with NSMT: Ragtime, Honk! Jr, A Christmas Carol '01. Elsewhere: Samantha's favorite roles include Ghost of Christmas Past in A Christmas Carol (Stoneham Theatre), Baby June in Gypsy (Publick Theatre), and villager in David- The Musical (premiere- Emerson Majestic Theatre).  Samantha, 10, has appeared in several television commercials and has won top honors in regional dance competitions. "Thanks to my family for their love and John La Rock for his support."

Molly Hagerty (Belinda Cratchit) with NSMT: Debut. Elsewhere: A lifelong resident of Danvers, Molly is currently a sixth grader at St. Mary's where she has appeared in several school productions. She has also had feature roles in community theatre, including the role of Gretel in The Sound of Music. Molly is delighted by the love and support of family and friends in her debut at NSMT and is particularly grateful to the teachers and staff at St. Mary's for their support and encouragement.

Landon R. Komishane (Ignorance) with NSMT: Debut. Elsewhere: After taking drama classes with both NSMT and Sleepy Lion Theatre, Landon makes his stage debut in A Christmas Carol.  A lifelong resident of Manchester-by-the-Sea , Landon attends first grade at Manchester's Memorial School.  His interests, in addition to drama, include guitar, soccer and baseball.

Medley Long (Tiny Tim Cratchit) with NSMT: Debut. Elsewhere: Medley is a 5th grade student at Hannah School in Beverly, MA. He is making his debut as Tiny Tim. He has an inborn soul for the arts which he pursues through many venues. Medley has studied piano, violin and dance. He has recently developed skills in communications, producing and directing videos. His creative talent as a writer is reflected through his song lyrics and school newspaper articles.

Matt Marquart (Peter Cratchit) with NSMT: Fiddler on the Roof, Honk!, A Christmas Carol '99, '01, The Wizard of Oz.  Elsewhere: Matt played Will Rogers Jr. in Will Rogers Follies, Kurt in The Sound of Music, and Oliver!. Matt is very excited to be back at NSMT for A Christmas Carol.  An eighth grader at the Briscoe Middle School in Beverly, Matt enjoys being involved in school chorus, band and drama club.  Other interests include studying the trumpet, running and playing soccer. "Thanks to my mother and father friends and teachers for their support."

Jeffrey Mitchell (Turkey Boy) with NSMT: Debut. Elsewhere: Jeff has enjoyed working with Five Star Summer Theatre in Reading for the past two summers; he was in the Lollipop Guild and played a Munchkin in the Wizard of Oz and more recently was the Bat Boy in Damn Yankees. Jeff is currently a sixth grader at the Galvin Middle School in Wakefield and wishes to thank his family and friends for their support.

Molly Katherine Welenc (Want) with NSMT: Debut. Elsewhere: Molly is a third grade student who currently lives in Beverly. She is a rising star and this is her debut performance. Playing soccer and watching TV are some of her favorite activities. Molly's winning smile and friendly manner make her a very popular addition to the cast.

Greg Ganakas (Director/Choreographer) With NSMT: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Fiddler on the Roof, My Fair Lady, How to Succeed In Business..., Brigadoon, A Christmas Carol ‘93-‘01, Good News!, Oklahoma!, On the Town, Crazy For You, The Music Man, Annie.  Elsewhere: Greg is happy to be celebrating his 10th year directing A Christmas Carol. Greg has a repertoire of work that includes Broadway, regional and international credits. He has directed and choreographed two world premieres: The Times at Long Wharf Theatre and White Lies at the American Stage Company and the Triad in New York.  His most recent credits include the award winning production of Babes In Arms for Goodspeed Musicals, Annie for Paper Mill Playhouse, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to The Forum at the American Musical Theatre of San José; Oklahoma! at the Ordway Music Theatre; the National Tour of Damn Yankees. His Evening with Gilbert and Sullivan with the Boston Pops and Beverly Sills, staged at Boston's Symphony Hall, can be seen on PBS's "Great Performances." He has created musical numbers for the ABC network and provided corporate entertainment packages for Oldsmobile, IBM, Proctor and Gamble, Disney Productions, Lever Brothers and American Express, as well as musical benefits for the American Cancer Society and Juvenile Diabetes Foundation. He is currently on faculty at New York University, Steinhardt School of Education's Department of Music and Performing Arts Professions.

Janet Glazener Roma (Music Director) With NSMT: Phantom '92, A Christmas Carol '00 - ‘01  Elsewhere: Janet Roma is happy to be back at NSMT, where she was music director of Maury Yeston's Phantom!, and also worked on productions of Into the Woods, Children of Eden, Damn Yankees,  West Side Story and The Wizard of Oz. Her National Tour credits include Jerry's Girls with Carol Channing (music director; conducted the original cast album), Cats (music director),and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat with Sam Harris (music director). On Broadway, Janet was music director for Jerry's Girls with Chita Rivera and Dorothy Loudon. She was the associate conductor for the national tours of Aspects of Love, A Chorus Line, The King and I with Hayley Mills, and Sunset Blvd. with Petula Clark. Janet was music director for Moby Dick: An American Opera at Boston's New Repertory Theatre and this past summer she conducted Jacque Brel at Santa Fe Rep. She lives in Cohasset with her husband, drummer / percussionist Gene Roma.

Howard C. Jones (Scenic Design) With NSMT: Chicago, Footloose, Carousel, Sweet Charity, Student Prince, Victor Victoria, Annie, The Will Rogers Follies, City of Angels, Guys and Dolls, Camelot, South Pacific, Nunsense 2, Showboat, Brigadoon, How to Succeed ..., A Christmas Carol. Elsewhere: Mr. Jones is been a member of the faculty of the N.C. School of the Arts. Before that he was the founder and owner of Cobalt Studios, an apprentice-painting studio in upstate New York. Other credits include Goodspeed Opera, Starlight Theatre, Missouri Rep. Theatre, CLO in Pittsburgh, Merrimack Rep. Theatre, Weston Playhouse and the American Heartland Theatre. He received the Elliot Norton Award for Outstanding Designer in June 2000 and several times has been awarded Best Design by KC Drama Desk. Life is good and just gets better. "Thanks to Mom and Dad. Love to Jerry. And a big thanks to all my friends, peers and students who always check in to see ‘What I've done with the place, now!'"

Kendall Smith (Lighting Designer) With NSMT: The Wizard of Oz, Zorba, Oklahoma!, Good News, A Funny Thing Happened ... Forum, Showboat, Little Me, A Christmas Carol ‘94-'01. Elsewhere: Theatre credits include Merrimack Rep., Indiana Rep., Studio Theatre DC, Geva Theatre, Sharon Stage, American Stage Festival, Pioneer Theatre and the Barter Theatre.  Regional Opera companies include Michigan Opera Theatre, Virginia Opera, San Diego Opera, Opera Pacific, Boston Lyric and Dayton Opera Theatre.

Nancy Leary (Original Costume Designer) With NSMT: A Christmas Carol ‘93-‘01, The Tempest, A Midsummer Night's Dream, Hamlet, Romeo and Juliet, Macbeth, Show Boat, Sweeney Todd, Phantom, A Funny Thing ... Forum Elsewhere: Nancy has costumed shows in both Canada and the U.S. for the past decade. She has designed for the Orlando Shakespeare Festival, A.R.T. Institute and her first feature film, The Viewing.

Jay Woods (Additional Costume Designer) With  NSMT: Dracula; A Chamber Musical, Miss Saigon, Honk Jr. Elsewhere: Jay is excited to be designing Christmas Carol this year having worked on it for the past six years, first as an intern and then as Costume Coordinator.  This is Jay's third year at NSMT as the Costume Coordinator.  Before coming to NSMT, Jay was the Resident Costume Designer for the Peterborough Players, where he designed Educating Rita, Wait Until Dark, Light Up The Sky, and The Wind And The Willows.  Other design credits include Joseph and the Amazing.., Steel Magnolias, Sister Mary Ignatius..., and Fools. In addition to theatre, Jay finished his first two television pilots this past winter; Rags to Bitches and Empire.  He is a graduate of Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts.  Jay is a member of United Scenic Artists.  "Special thanks to my fabulous shop, my family and Jared for their support and putting up with me. Merry Christmas! " 

Gerard Kelly (Wig Designer) With NSMT: Chicago, Dracula: A Chamber Musical, I Sent A Letter To My Love, The Wizard of Oz, Ragtime, Zorba, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Carousel, Fiddler on the Roof. Elsewhere: Gerard has designed for The Lake Tahoo Shakespeare Festival for 3 years.  His New York City credits include: N.Y.U, Illyria Theatre, Joseph Papp Public Theater, Soho Playhouse, Signature Theater Company and Jewish Repertory Theater. In Philadelphia: Walnut St Theater and New Freedom Theater. Other regional credits include: Helen Hayes Performing Arts Center, San Diego Rep., Sacramento Theater Company, Williamstown Theatre Festival, Geva Theater, Theater Works, Northern Stage Company, Carousel Dinner, and Westchester Broadway Theater.

John A. Stone (Sound Designer) With NSMT: Co-designed A Midsummer Night's Dream (1996), designed A Grand Night for Singing and the 1997-2002 Shakespeare productions and musical seasons. Elsewhere: John received his bachelor's degree in physics and music at St. Lawrence University.  He came to NSMT as an intern in 1995 and is now the sound supervisor and resident designer.  John has also designed Bed and Sofa, The Fever, and Mere Mortals for the Nora Theatre Company in Cambridge.  He now owns and runs Addison Audio, an equipment rental and design business intended to provide services to many area schools and organizations.  He would like to thank his wife Nancy and step-daughter Dalya for their love and support.

Erik E. Hedblom (Production Stage Manager) With NSMT: Chicago, Dracula: A Chamber Musical, I Sent A Letter To My Love, The Wizard of Oz, Footloose, 1997 - 2001 musical seasons Elsewhere: A Graduate of Castleton State College in 1995, Erik attended Grad School at University of California, Irvine for three years working on a masters in Stage Management. He joined NSMT in 1997 after working at the Colorado Shakespeare Festival for three seasons. He started as an intern, worked as Deck Manager for the 1998 & 1999 season and for 2000 and 2001 he served as Assistant Stage Manager. Thank you to Ginger for her friendship, love and support and thanks to the Hedblom clan for their continuous love and encouragement.

Jon Kimbell (Artistic Director / Executive Producer) Mr. Kimbell is the recipient of the New England Theatre Conference Award for Outstanding Achievement in the American Theatre, Salem State College's Lifetime Achievement Award, and the 38th Annual Moss Hart Award for NSMT's adaptation of A Christmas Carol. During his 20 seasons at NSMT, he, in partnership with a dedicated Board of Trustees and a superior staff, has turned NSMT into one of the finest musical theaters in the country.  His responsibilities include artistic direction, long range planning, and development of new musical works with Associate Producer John La Rock. He has directed or produced most musicals, the Shakespeare canon, and, as a passionate believer in developing new musicals, the premieres of 21 new musicals. Mr. Kimbell is a founding member of the National Alliance for Musical Theatre and recently served as a panelist for the NEA's Access and Musical Theater Panels, the New Hampshire Commission on the Arts, the Massachusetts Cultural Council, and the Ohio Arts Council. 

James K. Polese (Executive Director) NSMT's Chief Operating Officer since 1983, Mr. Polese oversees all fiscal and administrative operations. He is the key negotiator for the Music Theatre's successful Celebrity Concert and Children's Musicals series. Outside of NSMT, Mr. Polese has served a term as the president of the National Alliance for Musical Theatre (NAMT) after serving one term as Secretary and as a member of the Finance and Development committees for four years. He served on the NEA's Theater and Musical Theater Creation and Presentation Panel. In the community, Mr. Polese is a member of the corporation of Beverly Hospital; a member of the Executive Committee and a Trustee of the Essex National Heritage Commission; serves on the Capital Campaign Advisory Committee of the CAB Health and Recovery Services; has recently been elected to the board of the North Shore Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Polese is committed to providing education, cultural activities and access for all members of the community.