3rd Act Theatre Company is getting into the holiday spirit with the next show of Season 4. The Christmas Express by Pat Cook is a charming tale of a town in need of a little sprucing up. With a little love and a touch of magic, Christmas comes to the sleepy town of Holly. Our exclusive interview series with the cast of The Christmas Express kicks off with Kristy Salisbury, who plays Maggie!
AP: Tell us about The Christmas Express! Who do you play? How would you describe your character?
KS: The Christmas Express is your typical holiday tale of a small town filled with citizens who are in need of Christmas spirit. Hilda, the manager of the local train station would go so far as to describe the town and its inhabitants as “hopeless.” I think it’s safe to say that these townspeople do have hopes and dreams, but they tend to keep them hidden under the surface. And then a mysterious, and maybe magical, stranger arrives and shows the townspeople the true meaning of Christmas!
I play Maggie, the local mail carrier. She is very sarcastic and really enjoys dishing it out, especially to those who are close to her. Since she is a regular fixture around the town of Holly, she tends to go unnoticed and is privy to a lot of information. I think she enjoys hearing the details and particulars of the townspeople’s lives, but she is by no means a gossip. She takes her duties seriously.
AP: What has been exciting about the rehearsal process so far?
KS: It’s been a while since I’ve been on stage, and I have truly missed it. My castmates have been very welcoming and I feel like I’ve known them forever. Our director, CW Bardsher, taught us a theatre prep game that really gets us in the right headspace and helps us get ready to harness the energy needed to perform. It’s the best way to start our rehearsals. I’ve also really enjoyed seeing the process of everyone exploring their characters and even going so far as creating backstories for them.
AP: What is your favorite holiday tradition?
KS: Oooh, that’s a tough one. I honestly look forward to spending time with family every holiday season. My children are still little, so we’ve been creating our own holiday traditions over the years. We always make sure to see the holidays lights and have hot chocolate afterwards. Another favorite tradition is giving the kids a book and pair of pajamas every Christmas Eve.
AP: What do you think audiences will enjoy the most about this show?
KS: Most people tend to get very nostalgic this time of year, and The Christmas Express really evokes that sentimental feeling. The audience will take delight in watching each character start to embrace the wonder of Christmas. They will also get a chance to laugh and possibly even shed a tear or two.
Tickets are on sale now for this lovely holiday show!
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