Spotlight On: Jay Calabresi

Connecticut Theatre Company’s “Spotlight On…” series continues with a look into our talented cast and crew of A Christmas Carol. Get to know Jay Calabresi who is portraying Mr. Smythe in our production!

Introduce Yourself to Our Audience:

James ‘Jay’ Calabresi, has been acting in roles like Abraham Lincoln or Banquo in Macbeth for over a decade. I am excited to perform this show both as a member of the ensemble and as Mr. Smythe. Imagine you’re a member of the British working class in 1880 and you’ll be able to follow along just fine 🙂

What is your favorite song to sing in the show and why?

I like “Dancing On Your Grave” the most out of all the songs because of its macabre humor

What is the most rewarding part of being part of such a large ensemble cast?

I find the most rewarding part of a large cast is the end of a barn-burner of a song that ends with a crescendoing note.

What is your favorite part of the creative process, whether it be during rehearsals or performances?

My favorite part of the performance process is getting to get to know the cast!

How does the energy of the audience impact your performance?

The energy of the audience impacts my and our performance because knowing when people are excited, concerned or sad definitely will improve our ability to deliver a good show as compared to an uninterested audience.

What sort of person is going to love this show?

I think any person who’s not a big CEO or a landlord would love this show.

What is your favorite holiday memory?

my personal favorite holiday memory is going to bed on Christmas Eve with no snow on the ground only to wake up on Christmas day to freshly fallen snow.

“A Christmas Carol” opens on December 6th and runs through December 22nd at Connecticut Theatre Company. Tickets on sale now!

“Lynn Ahrens and Mike Ockrent’s snappy book makes us laugh while the catchy songs (Ahrens also wrote the lyrics) leave us tapping our feet; together, the music and movement contains an irrepressible happiness.” – Arifa Akbar, The Guardian

“Although this is a Christmas show, it does have universal themes that may resonate with people of all faiths. The story reminds us of all the poor and lonely people who need help to survive. It brings up continuing battles for compassion and equality, that are as evident today as they were in 1844 London.” – Jennifer Goldman, Daily Democrat