It feels like Say Nicklaus just opened, and already we’re only two weekends from the end. This is the fourth time we’ve staged this play, and while it is always an especially hard one to let go of…this time it’s going to be harder. The children in this production are just wonderful. In 2019, some of them will be too old for the parts they are playing. Maggie McDonald wanted to play Katya since we first staged Say Nicklaus in 2012. She was just five years old then. It broke her heart that she was still too young in 2013. But in 2015, then eight, Maggie finally got her chance to play Katya the little Dancer…and she was absolutely adorable.
This year, looking much younger than her quite mature age of 10, Maggie has once again, charmed every audience. Even though seven-year-old Ella McDonald, who now has her eye on the role, contends that her big sister is already too old for the part. Their noticeably more sedate older brother, Bobby, who plays Blitzen, seems content not to be part of that competition.
Siblings Mia and Jaydyn Martinez, as well as Morgan and Tegan Henson join the McDonald kids in this cast. Gabe Roberts and Jeron Robinson fill the final two children’s spots in the Elliffe cottage.
We’re especially delighted to have Jeron Robinson in the role of Bertrand, who is the oldest of the children living with the Elliffes. Jeron is already an extraordinarily accomplished actor and vocalist, having starred in the Moonlight Musicals production of Oliver. We’re looking forward to the opportunity to exhibit Jeron’s considerable vocal talents in future productions. He certainly brings great heart to his role as the loving and protective Bertrand in Say Nicklaus.
Of course, the adults in the production are just wonderful too. I think Chris and Sarah Smith’s rendition of “There You Are” is one of the most memorable moments of the show. On the strength of their beautiful performance, I’ve had people ask about that using that song for weddings.
With productions Saturday and Sunday at 3:00 for the next two weekends, we hope you’ll find time to come down to Ragtown and experience Say Nicklaus with us. Everything you’ve heard about it is true. I guarantee it will be a highlight of your Christmas.
Nice article
This was my first time attending and I can’t even express the joy I experienced. It was much more than I expected. Mr. Polk’s songs before the act just took my breath away. The play was beautiful. The atmosphere was welcoming and everyone was warm and friendly. I’m hoping to gather another group to go with me so they too experience what God has been doing in this “hidden” treasure we just discovered.
Thank you so much!!
Chris, thanks so much for your kind words. We’ll look forward to seeing you again.