The Backstage 'Spirits' of A Dickens’ Christmas Carol

As the spirited “ghosts” of A Dickens’ Christmas Carol dazzle generations of guests on stage, there’s an equally enchanting “show” behind the curtain—where the cast embraces witty banter, comedic pranks and a healthy dose of holiday mischief.

We popped in before showtime to explore the softer side of the seriously talented cast who ensure secret shenanigans are part of the production that’s become the heart and soul of An Old Time Christmas.

The cast exchanges knowing glances, and a few whispered words as they mentally prepare to transform into their roles. But when the question is asked—Who’s the biggest prankster backstage? —the answer comes without hesitation.

“Kaitlin!”

The cast bursts into laughter as Kaitlin Nelson, the actress who plays the Ghost of Christmas Present, gasps in mock surprise as she brushes her long blonde hair, looking into a mirror framed with little gifts from guests through the years. She pins up her light locks to put on the most iconic part of her costume: the poofy curly wig that bounces with each clever line. The wand-wielding spirit, who glides into her first scene down a balloon-lined slipper slide, has become a crowd favorite. Make no jokes about it, though, Kaitlin is in the serious business of smiles.

“We put so much care into this show every year because we know it’s a family tradition,” she beams as she tucks a flyaway strand of hair behind her ear. “For of lot of them, Christmas doesn’t start until they see our show. We don’t take that lightly. We also keep in mind all of the characters who’ve come before us—all the talented people who made the show what it has become. And, goodness, we have fun!”

“Oh, yes. Kaitlin is the delightfully mischievous one who keeps us all in good cheer,” says Aileen O’Reilly, the show’s production and stage manager. “She writes little notes to the cast on the dry erase board and pretends they’re from Dolly Parton. She involves them in her fun TikToks and will do anything to make someone laugh.”

Charley Wasson, who started performing in the show as a 14-year-old playing Martha Cratchit, has grown up on the Dickens’ stage. Now a cheerful member of the Ensemble, Charley chimes into the conversation about the cast’s pranks and practical jokes.

“We hide bugs. We have pajama day. We take goofy pictures,” Charley smiles. “And, sometimes, someone will swap out the baby in the vintage stroller on stage with a baby Yoda or some other surprise. We’re always laughing!”

True for all families, everyone in the Dickens’ “family” brings something unique to the group. Haley Smialek, who plays Mrs. Cratchit, recently celebrated her 500th performance of the show. Off stage, she helps children in the cast with their reading. She’s also known as the easiest to scare, so Aileen says they never pass up a chance to startle her. It’s those behind-the-scenes friendships and fun that keep long-time performers like Haley from burning out, even after the 141 shows they’ll perform at Silver Dollar City this Christmas.

“This is the show that made me fall in love with musical theater again,” Haley says as she powders her face. “I was working professionally and began feeling drained and disillusioned with the industry. I wasn’t having any fun. Then, I got this role. It’s the most fun I’ve ever had on stage. I get to share this all with the best group of people.”

Brad Baker has played Bob Cratchit for seven seasons. He, too, considers the cast family.

“This show is so special to so many people, and we think of that every time the curtains open,” he smiles. “It’s as choreographed backstage as it is on stage. We know each other well! We know what path each other is taking and how the set pieces move. That makes for a super special experience that keeps us coming back each year to be with this family.”

For more behind-the-scenes photos, visit Behind The Scenes At A Dickens' Christmas Carol.

The long days leading up to opening night actually start in September when crews arrive to begin building the set. By mid-October, the cast arrives along with the set designer, lighting, video and music designers and the director. Everyone gets busy creating the beauty and excellence of this long-time favorite, now in its 22nd season at Silver Dollar City.

On day one of rehearsal, the performers each receive their show binders containing their music, scripts, information about the park, a welcome letter from the production team and also a quote from Charles Dickens. The quote reads, “I will honor Christmas in my heart and try to keep it all the year.”

“This quote is so important,” Aileen says with a twinkle in her eye. “It is the heart of everything we are doing. We work diligently to get every aspect of the production just right. It is our truest desire to honor Christmas in the hearts of all our guests—from the smallest to the tallest and keep it for all the seasons in their memories.”

About A Dickens’ Christmas Carol:
An original musical adaptation of the famous classic by Charles Dickens, this 60-minute, Broadway-style show uses humor and inspiration to share the story of redemption, hope, and the transforming power of one simple prayer. It features a talented cast of actors accompanied by a live band, astounding special effects, stunning Victorian scenery and exquisite period costuming.

The heartwarming story follows Ebenezer Scrooge one night as he encounters three spirits—the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future that will forever change his life. Check show times at silverdollarcity.com or on the Silver Dollar City App.