Community, Costumes, and Christmas: The Magic of Winchester Little Theatre

In the heart of Old Town Winchester, Winchester Little Theatre (WLT) buzzes with anticipation as the cast and crew prepare for their much-loved production of "A Christmas Carol." In this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael sits down with director Sara Gomez, cast members Robert Delancey (Scrooge) and Jonathan Ryall (Bob Cratchit), and board member Tim Bambara to uncover the magic, challenges, and community spirit that bring this holiday classic to life.

A Theater with Heart and History

From the outset, it’s clear that WLT is more than just a venue—it’s a vibrant community hub. Tim, who first joined the theater three years ago, describes his journey from newcomer to board member, emphasizing the welcoming nature and high standards of the theater. “We operate with professional theater standards,” he notes, “but it’s all community-driven.” Director Sara Gomez, a veteran with over 30 productions at WLT, highlights the unique challenges of staging a large-scale musical in an intimate space. She explains how the theater’s size demands attention to detail, from period-accurate costumes to creative set design. “The audience is right there,” she says, “so we have to be meticulous.”

Casting, Community, and Commitment

The conversation shifts to the cast’s experiences. Both Robert Delancey and Jonathan Ryall are reprising their roles from the previous production of "A Christmas Carol," bringing continuity and depth to their characters. Robert shares his approach to playing Scrooge, balancing tradition with personal flair, while Jonathan reflects on the joy of returning to the stage after a long hiatus, encouraged by his daughter’s involvement in the theater’s youth program. Open auditions and a diverse repertoire ensure that new faces are always welcome at WLT. Sara describes the thrill of seeing first-time actors blossom, regardless of their background. The theater’s commitment to youth is evident in its robust kids’ program, which offers both musicals and straight plays each summer, nurturing the next generation of performers.

Behind the Scenes: The Art of Live Theater

Transitioning from the spotlight to backstage, the cast reveals the logistical feats required to stage such a production. With a cast of 26 and limited space, every prop and costume change is choreographed to perfection. Jonathan, who chairs the set build, recounts how a single table dictated the entire set layout, underscoring the ingenuity required in community theater. Moreover, the actors discuss the unpredictability and excitement of live performance. Mistakes happen, but trust and camaraderie among the cast ensure that the show always goes on. “It’s like playing sports,” Tim observes. “You trust your team to pick up the ball if something goes wrong.”

Engaging the Audience—On and Off Stage

WLT’s intimate setting blurs the line between audience and performer. The cast delights in post-show interactions, whether it’s chatting in the lobby or being recognized around town. For many, these moments of connection are as rewarding as the applause. The theater’s website and social media channels keep the community informed about upcoming shows, auditions, and volunteer opportunities. As a nonprofit, WLT relies on donations and the dedication of its volunteers to sustain its mission.

Looking Ahead

As the curtain rises on another season, the cast and crew of Winchester Little Theater invite everyone to experience the magic of "A Christmas Carol." With a blend of tradition, innovation, and heartfelt community spirit, WLT continues to prove that local theater is alive and thriving in Winchester. 

For tickets, volunteer opportunities, and more information, visit winchesterlittletheatre.org.