Clyde P Riddlesbrood
4 months ago
National Touring Theater Journeys to Roanoke VA!
As the holiday season approached, the Riddlesbrood Touring Theater Company embarked on an unforgettable journey to Roanoke, VA, to present our acclaimed production of A Christmas Carol. This endeavor was not just another performance but a testament to the dedication, creativity, and teamwork that defines our troupe. From the intricate process of packing and traveling to the triumphant applause of a captivated audience, the experience was nothing short of extraordinary. It would be a touring mainstage show to remember!
The Preparation: Packing for a Journey
Our Traveling Theater adventure began in Stratford, NJ, where our headquarters buzzed with activity. Preparing for a show as elaborate as A Christmas Carol requires meticulous organization. Costumes, props, and set pieces filled every inch of our space as Kathleen Tegen and Shannon Long finalized their stunning designs. Each piece was carefully packed to ensure its safe arrival. Meanwhile, the set—crafted to transport audiences to Victorian England—was disassembled and loaded into two trucks and a trailer. This impressive logistical feat was coordinated by our stage managers, Brian Albert, Kevin Ebner and Cadence Tegen, who ensured every item was accounted for. With everything packed, the cast and crew gathered early on December 12th for a final checklist. The trucks were secured, the trailer hitched, and our caravan set off for the six-hour journey to Roanoke, VA. The road ahead was long, (And rainy!) but the energy was high as we anticipated the magic we were about to create.
The Road to Roanoke
Driving through picturesque landscapes, our caravan made its way south. Along the way, cast members bonded over snacks, music, and last-minute line rehearsals. Though the journey was lengthy, the camaraderie among the team made the hours fly by. Upon arriving in Roanoke, we were greeted by the warm hospitality of the Home2 Suites by Hilton, our home base for the next several days. Situated conveniently near the Jefferson Center, the hotel provided a comfortable retreat for our cast and crew.
Loading In: Transforming the Jefferson Center
The next morning, we arrived at the Jefferson Center Performing Arts Theatre, an awe-inspiring venue with a seating capacity of 925. With 668 seats on the main level, 211 in the balcony, and 46 loge seats, the theater exuded a grandeur befitting A Christmas Carol. The load-in process was a masterclass in teamwork. Over the course of several hours, our crew unloaded and assembled the set, ensuring every piece was positioned perfectly. Costumes were carefully unpacked and organized, and props were meticulously arranged. Meanwhile, the cast began rehearsing on stage, familiarizing themselves with the space and perfecting their blocking under the expert direction of Ryan Long. By the end of the day, the transformation was complete. The Jefferson Center’s stage had become a window into Dickens’ world, ready to enchant audiences with the tale of Ebenezer Scrooge and his journey to redemption.
Showtime: Five Performances of Festive Brilliance
From December 13th to 15th, the Jefferson Center came alive with the spirit of Christmas. Over five performances, our talented cast of 17 brought the timeless story to life. Each performance was a spectacle of theatrical brilliance, featuring stunning costumes, evocative sets, and captivating performances. Of course we knew it would be as we had done the mainstage Christmas Carol many times before. The audience’s reactions—gasps, laughter, and tears—were a testament to the emotional depth and entertainment value of the production. Kathleen Tegen and Shannon Long’s costumes transported viewers to 19th-century London, while Brian Albert and Cadence Tegen ensured every scene flowed seamlessly. The lighting and sound design added layers of immersion, capturing the ethereal visits of the Christmas spirits and the bustling streets of London. One of the most memorable moments was the scene featuring the Ghost of Christmas Present (Played by Terry O’Brian), whose grand entrance drew audible gasps from the audience. Scrooge’s transformation from miser to man of generosity left many in the audience visibly moved. With over 800 attendees across the performances, the energy in the theater was electric, and the applause was thunderous.
Milestones Achieved: This production of A Christmas Carol marked several significant milestones for Riddlesbrood Touring Theater Company:
Record Attendance: With over 800 people filling the Jefferson Center’s seats, the audience turnout was among the highest we’ve ever experienced for this show.
Highest-Paid Production: This booking was officially the highest-paid production in our company’s 25 year history, a testament to the value of our work and the reputation we’ve built over the years.
Flawless Execution: From the load-in to the final curtain call, every aspect of the touring theater production was executed with precision and professionalism, making it a highlight of our 2024 season.
Beyond the Stage: Celebrating Success
After the final performance, the cast and crew gathered for a celebratory dinner at a local Olive Garden. Reflecting on the journey, we shared stories, laughter, and a sense of pride in what we had accomplished. The bonds forged during this production were stronger than ever, and the memories created will stay with us for years to come.
A Heartfelt Thank You: We extend our deepest gratitude to the Jefferson Center for hosting us, as well as to the wonderful audiences who attended our performances. Your support and enthusiasm made this production truly special. We also want to thank the staff at Home2 Suites by Hilton for accommodating our troupe so graciously.
Finally, a special thanks to the Riddlesbrood team—from the cast and crew to the directors and designers—for their tireless dedication and passion. Together, we created something truly magical. As we close the chapter on this incredible experience, we look forward to the adventures that lie ahead. Stay tuned for more updates on our upcoming productions, festivals, and events. Until then, may the spirit of Christmas and the magic of theater stay with you throughout the year. Let’s keep the magic alive! Share your favorite moments from A Christmas Carol in Roanoke in the comments below, and don’t forget to follow Riddlesbrood Touring Theater Company for more theatrical adventures. Who knows, maybe someday you will be in the spotlight!
Looking for a spectacular live theater experience for your venue? Riddlesbrood Touring Theater Company offers much more than just A Christmas Carol! We have a diverse lineup of mainstage productions—from comedies to fantasies and thrilling adventures. Book an unforgettable show today! Call 609-377-9125 and bring the stage to life!
