Spotlight On: Emily Marsh-Gaulin

Connecticut Theatre Company’s “Spotlight On…” series continues with a look into our talented cast and crew of A Christmas Carol. Get to know Emily Marsh-Gaulin who is portraying Mrs. Cratchit in our production!

Introduce Yourself to Our Audience:

Hi Audience, I’m Emily. No, not the character. No, not Emily G, either. Yes, the one playing Mrs. Crachit! I’m a stay-at-home-mom, freelance graphic designer, web development student, and costume enthusiast based in Berlin. My husband and I moved here from Texas in 2022 to raise our son, and I couldn’t be happier with the decision. The local theater community has been such a welcoming space full of amazing people.

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

I love all of the songs! My favorite parts within each song are always the complex harmonies, where the whole cast comes together to create something bigger than the sum of its parts.

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

There’s a wonderful sense of camaraderie in the learning process. Where I would normally feel embarrassed or discouraged making a mistake, instead I find it easier when the whole cast laughs together at our blunders (before practicing again together to get it right).

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

My favorite part of the process so far has been the inspiration I’ve found watching my supremely talented castmates perform. The way they act, dance, and sing in rehearsal motivates me when I’m practicing at home.

How does the energy of the audience impact your performance?

Honestly, I get nervous if I pay them too much attention! I try to pretend it’s just another rehearsal until after we finish bows.

What sort of person is going to love this show?

I think it’s a great show for families from all walks of life, even those who don’t celebrate Christmas. I find it’s less tied to the trappings specific to the holiday itself, and it’s more about a spirit of generosity and humanity.

What is your favorite holiday memory?

My favorite holiday memory is the first holiday season I spent with my in-laws (before I got married). I hadn’t even been dating my now-husband a full year at that point, but my mother-in-law made me feel so welcome and so loved – she made me my own stocking! They go a lot harder for Christmas than my parents do, so everything felt really festive and cheerful and joyous. When we can’t make it out to Kansas to visit, I try to channel her festive spirit at home for my family.

“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