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Film, stage star returns to Scrooge in ‘A Christmas Carol’

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FAYETTEVILLE – Ray Ficca, star of stage, screen and television, will return to Totem Pole Playhouse for its beloved holiday classic, “A Christmas Carol.”

While Totem Pole is located in Caledonia State Park, “A Christmas Carol” will play for eight performances, from Dec. 6-15 at the historic Majestic Theater in downtown Gettysburg as part of that city’s Christmas Festival.

Ficca is regarded as a true institution at the Playhouse, and this time, he will step into the role of Ebenezer Scrooge for the first time in this production. Ficca’s ties to Totem Pole run deep—he served as a resident actor (2005–2013) and Artistic Director (2008–2013), during which time he produced 38 summer shows. His recent performance in “On Golden Pond” (2023) marked his 25th show at Totem Pole.

Outside of Totem Pole, Ficca is the president of the National Conservatory of Dramatic Arts in Washington, D.C., the only accredited actor training program in the D.C. metro area. He has also served as the liaison for Actors’ Equity Association in the Baltimore/Washington region for five years. Additionally, Ficca has collaborated extensively with director John Putch on films such as “Route 30, Too!” and “The Father and The Bear.” He also recently appeared in “A Biltmore Christmas (2023) on the Hallmark Channel.

Ray Ficca, photo provided by Totem Pole Playhouse

Joining Ficca is a cast of nearly 40 local artists, including 16 talented young performers, Playhouse officials said. This year’s company includes professional actors with more than 50 productions under their belts, as well as young people stepping onto the stage for the very first time. Entire families are involved in the production, with some cast members returning for their fifth year in the show. Notable cast members include Ariabella Davison (Ghost of Christmas Past), Sam Little (Ghost of Christmas Present and Fezziwig), Richard Sautter (Jacob Marley), Bailey Hovermale (Belle), Adam Wennick (Fred), Catherine Blaine (Old Joe) and Christopher Kauffman and Taylor Whidden as Bob and Emily Cratchit. Larkin Bucher and Liam Spang will alternate in the role of Tiny Tim alongside many fresh and new faces.

The production is directed by Producing Artistic Director Ryan B. Gibbs, making his directorial debut for this piece. The creative team is led by Scenic Designer James Fouchard and Lighting Designer Jonathan Stiles, both of whom worked on the original Totem Pole production in 1988. Bailey Hovermale serves as music director, with choreography by Jenn Reed. Additional team members include Costume Coordinator Juls Buehrer, who maintains Patricia M. Risser’s original designs, and Sound Designer Kate Wecker, featuring original music by Terrence Sherman and Darren Server. Production management is by Kia Armstrong, with stage management by Mickey Acton.

Gibbs shared his excitement about working with Ficca, saying, “Everyone in our community knows, admires, and loves Ray. Having him with us is the best holiday gift any of us could ask for. We hope you will join us to witness him play this role for the first time at Totem Pole. Treat your family to this dynamic, fast-paced spectacle that is packed with magic, Christmas spirit and warm feelings!”

Tickets are on sale now by calling the Majestic Theatre Box Office at 717-337-8200 or visiting totempoleplayhouse.org or gettysburgmajestic.org. “A Christmas Carol” has public performances at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 6, at 2 and 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 7, at 2 p.m. on Dec. 8, at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 13, at 2 and 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 14 and at 2 p.m. on Dec. 15.

Totem Pole Playhouse will celebrate its 75th anniversary in 2025, with subscriptions going on sale this December.

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