Opening the Story: Table Work for A Christmas Carol – A New Musical

This week, our A Christmas Carol cast gathered for one of our favorite parts of the creative process — table work.

Before we ever step onto the stage, we take time to open the script, explore the story, and uncover the heart behind every line and lyric. These sessions allow our young artists to dive deep into character, theme, and motivation, and to understand how music, dialogue, and storytelling work together to bring Dickens’s timeless story to life.

Our table work and table read sessions, held yesterday and this morning, were full of insight and energy. We’re proud to have two incredible casts this year — each full of talent, curiosity, and a shared love for the story. Together, they’re building something truly special.

Guiding them are some remarkable mentors and leaders. Randy Sly, our director, brings wisdom, focus, and care to every discussion, helping our young artists connect deeply to their characters and the moral power of the story. Through Encore’s PRO Program, we’re thrilled to have two professional actors — Adam Cheney and Corbin Allred — joining us as mentors. Their presence elevates the process, modeling professional standards and offering our students a firsthand look at how seasoned performers approach their craft.

Our music director, Leslie Scott, continues to be the heart and soul of the music, guiding our performers with patience, joy, and a deep emotional understanding of each song’s message. We were also honored to have our Artistic Director, Rhett Guter, join us for the table read. Rhett shared insights about the story’s enduring themes and even stepped in to read the role of Ebenezer Scrooge — reminding us all why this story of redemption and hope continues to resonate so powerfully.

These sessions are an essential part of Encore’s creative tradition — not just for A Christmas Carol, but for every production we create. Table work gives our young artists the opportunity to think, feel, and collaborate like professionals. It’s where storytelling becomes personal, and where the heart of each show truly begins to beat.

We can’t wait to see how this beautiful work continues to grow as rehearsals unfold.