Experience the Vibrant Intersection of Art and Rhythm with David Ellis at UT Austin

The Heartwarming Return of Local Legends in A Christmas Carol

Update Bringing Holiday Cheer to Austin: A Decade of Joy As the holiday season approaches, the magical production of “A Christmas Carol” at Zach Theatre in Austin stands as a beacon of joy, rekindling cherished memories for audiences year after year. Over the past decade, this festive musical has become a beloved tradition, beautifully weaving together heartwarming melodies and dazzling choreography that captivates both young and old. The soulful performances by Kenny Williams and Roderick Sanford have become synonymous with this holiday classic. Each year, they return to their iconic roles—the Ghost of Christmas Past and Marley/Fezziwig/Reverend—infusing the show with vitality that resonates deeply with the audience. Producing Artistic Director Dave Steakley praises their magnetic presence: "Kenny and Rod have been my artistic collaborators for over 30 years and instantly bring an ecstatic response the moment they step on stage.” A Community Built Around Togetherness For Williams and Sanford, their commitment to the show goes beyond just the performances. It’s about the community they’ve helped foster. "I refuse to see someone else in my Marley costume," Sanford quips, expressing the playful dedication that stems from their long-standing relationship with the production. The duo reflects on how the performances have allowed them to build deeper connections, not just with each other, but also with the audience: "I have even made friends with some of the people that met me through the show. So that’s built more of a community outside of this show that I didn’t have, and I’m thankful for that,” Sanford adds. This sense of belonging is one of the hallmarks of living in Austin. As part of the city's vibrant lifestyle, the camaraderie formed through community events like this deeply enriches the local culture. For audiences, “A Christmas Carol” doesn't merely serve as a performance to attend; it embodies the spirit of togetherness that characterizes the city’s essence. Why Tradition in Theatre Matters In an age where entertainment options abound, the reliance on traditional holiday shows like “A Christmas Carol” speaks to our longing for nostalgia and continuity. Each event allows us to return to cherished moments and share them with friends and family. Williams notes, “If I didn’t have the show, I’d be sitting at home bored missing it,” highlighting how the annual return of this musical rejuvenates collective joy. For many, it's an emblem of the holiday spirit, ensuring that the celebration of the season doesn’t lose its magic over time. The roles of Williams and Sanford were personally crafted for them, guaranteeing that their performances keep a unique flair that audiences adore. “Dave Steakley originally wrote the show with us in mind, kind of built the characters around our personalities in a way—exaggerated to some extent, but still our personalities,” Williams explains, shedding light on the personalized touch that elevates their artistic expression. Looking Forward to Future Editions As they reflect on their journey and the lasting impact of their roles, both actors look forward to another year of performances, excited about how each season brings new energy and unpredictability. Sanford adds, “There’s different energy, so it’s not stagnant for us either. Doing this, it didn’t seem like 10 years. It feels great.” This sentiment resonates perfectly with the essence of Austin's holiday spirit—constantly evolving yet rooted in tradition. Ultimately, “A Christmas Carol” is more than just a holiday show; it encapsulates the warmth, joy, and sense of belonging that the Austin lifestyle represents. The joy Kenny Williams and Roderick Sanford bring to Austin audiences every year is a reminder of the power that local arts have in weaving the community closer together—making this holiday classic a must-see for all. Join the Festivities This Holiday Season As the curtain rises on another enchanting season of “A Christmas Carol,” we invite you to experience the magic for yourself. Whether you are revisiting this treasured tale or experiencing it for the first time, be part of the community that embraces the spirit of giving and celebration. Support your local arts and cherish the moments spent together this holiday season.