Original subtitles

I just love this time of year,

and I love it even more shopping at Maven

because the prices are so low, it's like every day is Christmas!

Good? Wanna see anything else?

No, no, I think that's okay.

Next? Right this way.

- Charlotte? - Yes?

Sorry, different Charlotte.

Right.

Every day is Christmas!

Every day is Christmas.

Every day is Christmas!

You know what? I've had a lot of first days.

I would actually like a second. Thank you.

Hey, Mom!

Yeah, actually just got out of an audition.

I know I'm not supposed to ask you this, but how did it go?

Well, we'll see. And just as a rule of thumb,

you can always ask how it went, just never...

"Did you get the part?"

So, how was your Thanksgiving?

when your cereal commercial is gonna air again, and Grandma

wants me to tell you that Brad Pitt is single. Again.

Well, I'll be sure to put his number in my speed dial.

Mom, I'm sorry I didn't make it home for Thanksgiving. I know, sweetie,

but like you keep saying,

you're just one audition away from the big one.

Thanks, Mom.

And maybe you'll be able to come home for Christmas, right?

Well, a girl can hope, right?

Anyway, right now I have to go meet Rachel, though.

She's in town for the holiday.

I always liked that girl. Such a good head on her shoulders,

very... pragmatic.

Right, and who doesn't love a hopeless pragmatic?

OK, I love you, hon.

OK, bye.

Hey, have you seen the remote?

Should be on the coffee table.

'K, found it!

Julian Walker stars in Thick or Thin.

Tune in tonight at 8 o'clock.

Stop!

I cannot believe you watch this.

It is so overrated.

You're joking, right? I love Thick or Thin.

Julian Walker sure is easy on the eyes.

Not so easy on the ears.

They should give him a knife, the way he chews that scenery.

Wait, didn't you take an acting class with him back in the day?

Back in the day? Thanks. It wasn't that long ago.

Actually it was an acting workshop,

which is sort of a place where actors gather

and work out. Did you work out with anyone else famous?

You know what?

Maybe you should stop watching these boring reruns

and get out the rest of the Christmas decorations.

Bah...

humbug! Great.

- Bye! - Bye!

Hey! Hi!

- Hey! - You're a sight for sore eyes!

It's so nice to see you. How's it going?

It feels like 100 years between drinks.

Speaking of, how's the eggnog?

- It was perfect. - So,

you didn't come home again this year for Thanksgiving. No,

my roommate and I had a Friendsgiving, you know, everyone brings

a special dish... I know, silly.

I'm the one who started those for us back in college, remember?

Gosh, how quickly time flies.

Alright, I know you must loathe the question,

but how is it going?

Well, I am up for a big commercial.

That's good!

And? You're happy?

I choose to believe happiness is a journey, not a destination.

You are still collecting all those corny sayings.

Don't make fun. They keep me believing anything is possible.

Even if lately I feel like I'm spinning my wheels waiting

to become the next big whatever. Don't say that!

Weren't you this close to landing the lead in Thick or Thin a few years back?

The big fish that got away, don't remind me.

I was so confident, and then they paired me

with the one and only Julian Walker.

I can't imagine it's easy putting yourself out there all the time. The ups, the downs...

Yeah, the constant cloud of rejection

mixed with the occasional rays of hope and sunshine.

Well, then maybe it's time for a change.

OK, I wasn't gonna mention this, but...

they're looking for a new coordinator in employee events

at my company. Please! I am so not qualified.

Says who? You know, the last woman in the job, she actually had a degree in theatre.

- Seriously? - Yes!

Face it, Charlotte, acting is just a different form of sales

or public relations. I suppose. And you,

with your boundless energy? You're a natural born corporate cheerleader.

- You really think so? - Totally.

And just think of it... Terrific salary, with benefits,

and you get to be in Chicago with me!

I mean...

Wouldn't that be fun? OK.

OK, you don't have to decide this minute. Just... think about it.

Please? I'm thinking...

I need to get to work and put a pin in this reunion.

I'll take that as a maybe.

OK.

It was so good to see you, Rachel.

It was. You too.

OK, we'll talk soon? Yes, please.

- Alright, bye. - Bye.

- I love you. - Love you.

Livin' the dream.

Don't you read that same book every Christmas?

Yep. I consider Scrooge a personal literary hero.

- Is that so? - Absolutely.

Table for one? Thanks,

but I'm looking to take it to go. I'm heading for a potluck

and I've got to bring the dessert.

Any recommendations? Absolutely.

Yeah, the ginger spice pumpkin bread, always a solid choice.

The peppermint cupcakes, to die for. Or to diet for.

I think I'll take a half dozen of both.

Hey, like it.

Gary, can you help me with a takeout order? Yep.

Half a dozen of the ginger spice pumpkin bread and a half dozen of peppermint cupcakes.

- Got it. - Here you go. -.

- Thanks, Charlotte. - How did you know my name?

Right.

- Sid. Nice to meet you. Nice to meet you, Sid.

And a potluck? That sounds fun. What's the occasion?

I'm working on a new production at the Grand.

It's their annual Christmas dinner. Is that so?

Well, Charlotte is quite the actress. That I am.

And tonight, I will be acting as your waitress.

Have you been in any theatre productions I might have seen?

No, no. I mean, not since college.

I've done some commercials and some guest roles. Nice.

But if you ever get the chance, there's nothing like theatre.

True. You can't beat the thrill of a live audience.

OK, I'm sorry,

when were you in front of a live audience? Third grade production

of the Christmas nativity. I played one of the Wise Men.

Yeah, you did. OK, here you go.

- Hope to see you around. - And I'm looking forward to being seen.

- Good night. Good night.

You ever thought about trying out for the live theatre? I bet you'd be great on stage.

My friend is trying to convince me to take this party planning job in Chicago.

- And? - And I am considering it.

I can't keep living paycheck to paycheck.

I'm getting kind of tired of chasing the dream.

I've seen this before. You're just in a funk.

And it's like you're always telling me... you're only one audition away...

- From the big one. I know. - That's my Charlotte.

Mind closing the caf� tonight? My wife is hoping that we'll put up the Christmas tree.

Of course. Go have fun.

- Thanks. - Bye.

To the Grand repertory company.

I wanna thank each one of you for welcoming me back.

It means... Who's that? And enter dessert!

Dessert, fashionably late.

As always, Sid, your timing is impeccable.

Everybody, this is Sid, our set designer.

I'm so glad you decided to join us again this year.

I wouldn't miss working with the finest seamstress in theatre.

- Flattery will get you everywhere. - Sid, hey!!

How you doin', buddy? The real star of this production.

America's favorite awardwinning TV star. Come on.

- How's the series going? - It was great, we did 5 years. Onto the next, right?

I told Sid to check out the entire Thick and Thin experience.

OK, I'm sure you did.

Well, you know me and TV. I have to confess, I didn't see a single episode.

You know who you're starting to sound like? My dad.

Yeah, he didn't like TV much.

And even before he became the artistic director

of this theatre. This place was his home.

But he did have a little disdain for TV actors.

Hey now, don't say that. Your father would be very proud

of all of your accomplishments, especially the fact

that you're running the company and directing our Christmas show

this year. The prodigal son following

in his father's footsteps. OK, let's not get ahead of ourselves.

Those are huge shoes to fill, OK?

You know, A Christmas Carol is a big chestnut to crack.

Particularly for a first-time director.

You're nervous? Come on. Me?

I'm a TV star. Not to mention I was nominated for People's Choice awards.

Nervous? Come on, that's for kids!

No, I'm...

utterly terrified.

OK, there's a glass here that's empty.

- What? You started decorating without me? - Sorry,

we sort of got carried away. This is my friend Liz.

- Hi. - Hi.

What started out as a decoration party turned into a celebration.

Liz just booked another acting gig.

She's killing it right now. No, it's...

just a silly commercial. Go on, Liz,

do the line from it. No! It's so good!

- No! - Yes, do it! - OK. OK.

Shopping at Maven's,

it's like every day is Christmas!

So good!

It's amazing.

We're gonna go celebrate, have a glass of champagne. Do you wanna come with?

No. Um, no, I mean, I'm...

I am just exhausted.

But you guys should go. Yeah, you should celebrate.

- OK. - Yeah.

OK, Rach, I'm ready to take a stab at that job if it's still available.

Really? Are you serious?

Serious as a broken dream.

Yay, Charlotte! That's amazing!

Julian,

have you thought about the design aesthetic for this year's production?

We could save a lot of money by repurposing the set from last year.

- Costumes as well. - Yeah, see, right there,

that's my worry. That's the same thing that's happening all the time.

The tried and true. People see that millions and millions of times, guys.

Maybe, there is a comfort in familiarity.

Besides, we don't have time to start something new.

Look, I know that's comforting,

but we need to do something inspiring, not comforting.

Something exciting, something refreshing, something real.

Something from, hey... here, OK?

Do you wanna know why I came back here?

Because I believe in everybody at this table.

I believe in your talent

and I believe if we work together we can create something amazing.

Let's give our audience

a Scrooge they'll never forget.

Who's with me?

I'm in.

- Me too. - Let's do it.

To the Grand Company players.

Let's create something

beautiful.

Table for two?

Absolutely.

- Make yourselves at home. - Thank you. - Appreciate it, thanks.

You've got two live ones

in your station. OK. Happy holidays.

Happy holidays!

Julian?

Julian Walker?

Hello, Charlotte.

You know, I thought that was you.

I just saw you over here from my table

over there and I just came over to say hello.

- Hello. This is my friend Franny. - Nice to meet you.

Charlotte and I auditioned for Thick and Thin together

and we did some workshops back in the day when we were starting out, didn't we?

- Yeah, good times, good times. - Yeah.

Rock solid actress. Fantastic. Well,

you are too kind. I don't wanna keep you.

I just, you know, was coming to say hello, so I'm gonna... Excuse me. Charlotte,

I need you to take these to table 7.

A party of 9, I need to set up for it. Um, OK, I'll do it.

Anyway, well, I better get going.

I'm just here, you know, researching a part.

Right.

A part I seem born to play for the rest of my life.

Hey, Charlotte. I just got back to Chicago.

Just four more blocks, sir. Thanks. No problem.

OK, I like the sound of that, but what exactly does it mean?

three jobs sometimes to pursue your dream of being an actress.

She actually considered that an asset?

Definitely.

Shows her you're goal-oriented. Now you just have to show her

In a phone interview?

No. My boss is coming to New York

and plans on seeing if everything I've said about you

OK. I'm scared.

Just be you.

That's all I sold and that's all you need to deliver.

OK, I will be the best version of me that I can muster,

and if that doesn't work, I'll fake it.

OK. Bye!

- Bye. - What was that about?

I have a job interview next week.

- What's the part? - It's not an acting gig.

It's a real job.

Like, in the real world. Uhoh. I heard about those ones.

Entirely overrated.

So, Gary, I'm gonna need to keep my schedule loose over the next week,

but I should know about the interview in a couple days. Got it. What's the part?

Party planning coordinator.

You're not seriously considering taking a job, are you?

I am seriously considering all of my options at this point,

and this is most certainly an option.

- Fair enough. - And look, if fate's plan is for me to stay in this town,

it needs to give me a sign. And that sign needs to have, like,

big flashing lights and a sparkler on it.

But until then... happy holidays.

Happy holidays.

Sorry.

Hey, do me a favor, OK?

Looks great, guys, I love it!

We get a lot of inquiries, I'll give you that.

No, no, no, hey, I'll get that. No, no.

- I'm not exactly sure what to expect. - What to expect, Naomi,

is that we're gonna make sure that the actors only have one minute per audition.

That way, we'll be moving at a quicker clip.

'Cause all we're looking for is a little Christmas magic.

Just be prepared to sit through a lot of cold.

You know, that's why we love you, Naomi.

You always see the glass half empty. Let me make you a deal.

You give me till tomorrow afternoon, I promise to both of you

I will have a decision on the direction of the play, OK?

Alright, I'm going inside to get warm. I'll say this

about our Julian, he definitely thinks outside of the box. Well, hopefully

this little exercise in futility will put him back inside

the box. To be honest, I find his spirit refreshing.

I think we've all been working on autopilot a little too long around here.

We'll see.

Hey, Charlotte,

it's Sandy, your tireless agent.

Calling you tired clients.

coming down the pipe for you.

What? Lady at the counter? Woman in the background?

and the company's holding open calls.

I thought you loved the book. I mean, how many times have you read it?

Yeah, more times than I'd care to admit.

Plus, the director requested you personally.

Really? Who's the director?

all you need to do is come up with a killer monologue

and go in there and knock their socks off tomorrow.

OK, yeah.

Wish me luck.

The fact is they just don't have any parts for me in this play.

I'm too old for Belle, I'm too young for Mrs. Fezziwig,

and all the other parts are for men. Who says?

Your agent told you they wanted a whole new take on the Christmas classic.

That's right. Why settle for a bit part?

Right.

I mean, if I'm gonna go for broke, I may as well put it all on the line, right?

- What are you thinking? - Where's my computer?

Computer... no, no, no. Computer!

OK.

Enter...

Erlinda... Scrooge.

Yes!

That's right.

God bless us,

every one.

That was great. Thank you.

That was probably the most mature version of Tiny Tim I've ever seen.

OK, we'll be in touch. You're not serious! I'm not. That was terrible.

- I told you we'd end up with a mixed bag with these open calls. - I know.

I'm getting a coffee.

- Who's next? - Um...

Charlotte, is that you?

Yeah. I'm sorry, I can't...

- It's me. - Sid, hi!

You're here to audition, I hope.

Yes. Yes, I am.

- That's great. - Who is the director?

Hi, Charlotte.

Um...

You know what, I'm sorry. I knew this was a big mistake.

Short and pithy, I'll give her that much.

Charlotte, wait!

Charlotte! Charlotte, wait.

Please, come on, hey. Listen.

Please tell me this is not about the Thick or Thin audition.

No, I just changed my mind. I don't wanna do this anymore.

And by the way, that wasn't just an audition, that was a network test and you decided

to go rogue and improvise. Don't blame me because you play it safe.

I blame you because you didn't warn me.

I just took a chance. And it paid off.

Yeah, paid off for you, but it totally threw me off.

OK,

if that's what I did, I'm sorry.

- Well, a lot of good that does me now. - Look, I believe in you.

I've seen you audition. You are a very talented actress

and I know you've got something prepared. We're in there waiting

and excited for you to go in there and blow us away. Come on!

Well, thank you, coach,

but I'll see you at the next one.

Charlotte, this is the next one.

What are you afraid of?

What are you so afraid of?

Thank you. We'll be in touch.

Alright, boss,

that was the final audition. Any of these stick?

No. 'Fraid not.

I give each one of them credit for trying.

Franny, what's that saying?

Nothing ventured, nothing gained?

Excuse me! Hi, sorry.

Am I too late?

- Yes, I'm sorry, we're... - No, no, no, no.

You're not too late at all,

Charlotte. Welcome back.

Thanks.

Please, the stage is yours.

Well, first I'll just say...

So, my idea is a modern retelling

of the classic tale,

told from a female perspective. Erlinda Scrooge.

Like most of us,

I think she is wondering how she got here,

what she's doing, and maybe the most troubling,

where she's headed,

which I think is something that most of us,

I anyway, can relate to.

Interesting.

Well, we all look forward to seeing what you've got.

- Great. Um, is it OK to use... - You can use the whole stage.

- What's her name? - Charlotte.

Am I really the woman...

who's still at work,

head buried in a laptop on Christmas Eve,

surrounded

by leftover excuses of how I got here,

wondering what went wrong,

or worse,

if my best years are behind me?

Please.

I thought my name

would be in bright lights on big marquees,

not posted to the side of a cubicle that no one sees.

From now on, I vow to heed my past

and honor my present while keeping hope alight for a bright future,

knowing that deep down, none of that matters.

All that matters is what is in here.

And I promise to keep all three spirits alive

within me

forever.

That was great.

Um...

could you wait in the lobby to give us about ten minutes to discuss?

- Yeah, for sure. Thank you for your time. - Thank you for your time.

Guys, come on, that...

was amazing. It's a classic tale told with a real point of view,

with a modern-day twist. It could work.

It just feels really ambitious. Come on, Franny, ambitious is good.

Not when you're on a time crunch.

Plus, Charlotte's an unknown quantity.

True, but it's a breath of fresh air. I think that's a good thing.

- It could be a recipe for disaster. - OK, I know you're scared.

I get it, we're all scared, right?

But when you see something like that that's inspiring, you jump on it. Right?

What do you guys say?

Charlotte...

I, um, I have some news.

Now, it wasn't unanimous by any means,

but we all got together and thought about it long and hard

and came to a consensus. It's OK.

I understand. You're our new Scrooge.

What?

Yeah.

What? No, there must be some misunderstanding.

No, there's no misunderstanding. You are our new lead.

Welcome to the company! We love your idea.

- Now, look, I know we got a lot of work to do before Christmas... - I understand.

But you, you, Charlotte, are exactly what we're looking for.

- Seriously? - Yes! Yes, seriously!

Seriously!

Group hug! Thank you!

My goodness! Congratulations.

- Thank you. - Congratulations.

I got this!

Hi.

Hello?

I'm sorry it's so late, but it's just, I couldn't wait

OK.

I just landed a part

in the new production of A Christmas Carol at the Grand.

Sweetheart! That is... incredible!

I know. I know. I still can't believe it's happening.

Well, what... What is your part?

and I am playing Erlinda Scrooge.

- I love it already. - Thanks, Mom.

I guess that means you won't be able to come home

for Christmas... but that is

And I'm just...

I'm just so proud of you.

And we can just see each other in the new year, to celebrate

Yes, that we will.

Alright, I love you, Mom.

I love you, baby.

OK, goodnight.

Yes!

Yes! Yes!

Yes! Yes!

- Samantha. - Sorry, I didn't mean to startle you.

I was just hoping to surprise you so we can finally do some catching up.

That's, um, that's very kind of you, but I...

Aren't you gonna invite me in?

It's our favorite Cabernet

and it's not exactly pouring itself.

Samantha, look, I have a very important dinner meeting

with the Christmas production directing, so... I can't.

Can't you reschedule? I'd really love it if we could talk.

You know, co-star to co-star. Yeah, I will, 100%,

but unfortunately, this is not the time.

Can I take a rain check?

Sorry.

It's OK. I just have to go.

They're waiting for me.

We'll, I'll call you and we'll try to reschedule

when the play is over, you know what I mean? Yeah.

Julian!

- Hey. - Hi! How long have you been here?

Since the place opened, I guess. Yeah, I had lots of work

to get done and I didn't know when your shift started, so...

- Not for ten minutes. - Well then, great, have a seat.

This is the rehearsal schedule, not to mention

some preliminary production designs, and this...

We need to work on this, OK? This is gonna be our little opus.

Yes, but I do need to work.

Right. You gotta work.

Um, fine. You work here

and I'll work here. OK. I like it.

I'll be right here. OK. Morning, Charlotte.

- Good morning, Gary. - I haven't seen you wearing that smile in a while.

So I guess you heard the good news.

- Congratulations. I couldn't be more thrilled for you. - Thank you.

But I do need to talk to you about my schedule for the next few weeks.

Don't worry, me and your director already got that

ironed and put away. Do you now?

Yes.

Actors have a way of being

awfully persuasive when they wanna be. I've heard.

And what I love the most

is that what's happening to Erlinda's character

is that she's not sounding anything like Ebenezer.

Exactly. And did you notice, in the entire script, there isn't a single "humbug"?

'Cause it's real and it's contemporary and it's modern,

right? Which is exactly the way we discussed it. I love the idea.

Hey, you creative folks,

I wish I could let you stay, but I gotta close up.

Gary, cone on, are you sure we can't stay?

Just give us a little more time. Sorry. Gary!

No, he's actually right. People are gonna keep walking by and seeing the light on,

they're gonna think we're open. We're not gonna get any work done.

Right. Alright, I have an idea. Let's go to an all-night diner.

Actually, I think I have a better idea.

OK?

You're a real triple threat,

you know that? You can act,

you can write, and obviously, you can bake.

Well, don't speak too soon. You haven't tried one yet.

My mom was the real baker in the house.

There was nothing like her famous icebox snowball cookies.

Um, I'm not an expert,

Charlotte, but that doesn't look like a snowball cookie.

- I said my mom was the baker. - OK.

OK, so, back to our story.

Where do you see Erlinda

at the end of the play? Yeah, well,

I was thinking about that, and... you know how Scrooge

looks back on his youth as, like, a missed opportunity?

Well, I was thinking

that Erlinda could maybe see it as a second chance.

And who wouldn't want that, right?

- Well, that's the point. - I like that. OK.

To second chances. To second chances.

So, what made you want to direct?

Um... I suppose I'm...

I'm looking for my second chance too.

Yeah, my dad, um...

huge influence on me in the theatre. You know, growing up,

Christmas was never about being around Christmas trees or presents or anything like that.

It was about being around him and being on stage.

So you really are a theatre rat.

I was, yeah. And then came TV,

and my agents are dying for me to go back to it, but...

when this play came to me,

I just... I just couldn't turn it down.

And...

I didn't want to miss this opportunity.

Well, that makes two of us.

Alright, let's get back to work. Yeah.

- OK. - OK. Opening, Act III.

Good morning, Grand Company.

Hand those out for me? Thank you. You know, in the wee hours

of the morning, Charlotte and I were working furiously

to get to the final touches on our little production here. You must be running

on pure adrenaline. That and plenty of Christmas cookies.

OK, I gotta ask, somebody answer me this: how is my cohort in crime look brighter

and bushier than I do this morning?

Lots of hair and makeup. Beneath it all, I'm half asleep.

That makes two of us. Here you go.

- Think we can talk casting? - Yes, good point, Naomi.

Casting. So listen, I was thinking that the Ghost

of Christmas Past should be our youngest member.

- That would be me, sir. - Yes, it would, Brady. You up for the challenge?

Can you handle that? We'll find out soon enough. Yes, we will.

And the Ghost of Christmas Present...

is going to... What are you looking at?

Speaking of the present.

Dennis Hayes, to what do we owe the pleasure?

I was hoping we might have a word.

- Up there? - Please.

Let's take five, OK?

OK, everybody, we are back at 11:53.

If you don't mind, I'd love to take your measurements.

Of course, yeah. Who is Dennis Hayes?

The real company Scrooge.

He owns the place. Inherited it from his father,

who is a real arts' lover.

- I see. And his son? - Not so much.

I'll meet you over there. OK, sure.

Mr. Hayes. I assume you're not here for season tickets.

I'm afraid not.

But I don't want to beat around the bush.

What is this?

Now you're planning on mowing it down.

Your lease ends this year.

It was hard for me to make this decision,

but I'm putting this place on the market come January.

What about the theatre company? We've been here for 50 years.

Unfortunately, that's not my concern.

Property in this city is far more valuable than sentiment.

Um, everybody, if...

I could just have everybody's attention for a second.

Guys, can I have your attention?

Um, I have a short announcement to make.

Um...

Production of Christmas Carol this season is gonna be...

this theatre company's final performance. What?

I don't understand. This theatre has been around for...

Generations.

I know. Trust me.

I grew up here.

Its owner supported our vision. Unfortunately, this guy...

Only supports the bottom line.

Well, so... what can we do?

I say we give this little theatre of ours

the greatest send-off ever.

We put together the best holiday show ever.

That's it?

And then what, we shut our doors

and go our separate ways, pretending this was just a job?

Julian, I don't... I don't need to tell you,

this theatre company has been my family!

Guys, I'm sorry.

Well, I guess our company will have to find another space

to perform in next year.

I don't believe this.

I can't believe

that fate would give us

this incredible opportunity

only to, what, let it slip away?

Charlotte, we're not gonna let it slip away.

It's just that none of us...

know what to do at the moment.

Sounds a lot like my life.

You know what we need?

What?

A Christmas miracle.

Well, in that case, I guess it's...

'tis the season to find one.

Excuse me.

- Hi. - Hi!

- Sucker punch table for one, please. - Yeah...

I take it you didn't see that coming. Did you?

I don't think any of us saw it coming. That is the business.

Yeah, I know. This whole thing

feels like a replay of my career. I can't tell you

how many times I have landed roles only to discover

they ended up on the cutting room floor.

How do we even have the stomach for this?

Sometimes I think the only reason I'm still doing this

is because I can hear my dad whispering in my ear.

- Is he the one that encouraged you to be an actress? - Yeah. He was a dreamer,

trapped in the body of an ad salesman from Ohio

trying to support his family.

He passed when I was in college, so it's just me and my mom now.

I'm sorry.

But I'm sure he's very proud that the dream lives on.

Lives on... on life support.

- Come on. - I have a friend

who put me up for a job in Chicago.

Really?

A job. Not a gig, but a job. - Yeah.

Yeah, I gotta tell you,

Charlotte, I don't know if I like the sound of that.

Well, I think we have bigger fish to fry.

True. No doubt. OK,

what's the priority, then? Mount the play or save the theatre?

- Both. - I knew you would say that.

- Yeah. You thirsty? - Yeah.

And I'm hungry, too. That's good.

Menu. Great.

OK, people, we have to show Mr. Hayes that the Grand

is worth keeping before the new year. I was up all night,

and this is my conclusion. The only way we're gonna save the Grand

is getting people interested in what we're saying, right? Right, and right now,

what we know is we have a show opening in a week and a half

and a website that is so ancient it can't even take online purchases.

I think I helped design that in 1997.

Well, that's an easy fix, but it's not gonna turn this place around.

No, no, no, that's where you're wrong. It's a good start. It's a good start.

We need buzz for the Grand. We gotta get people knowing what we're doing for the community,

you know? You know how many careers were launched from this theatre?

I've seen quite a few. Stars of stage and screen.

See? That's the kind of information we need to get out there. Right now, this theatre

is New York's best-kept secret. But we're gonna change that,

because we're gonna give this theatre the buzz and publicity it deserves, right?

Even if it means drawing on your celebrity?

Naomi, whatever it takes.

And what it takes right now...

is a selfie.

- Charlotte, hold up. - Um?

You know, you have a way of motivating a crowd

that's really inspiring. Even when the outcome

is seemingly, you know, bleak.

Well, I guess it's all those years of rejection

really strengthening the bounce back instinct.

I get it. It really think this time is gonna be different.

You know what? This time, it is gonna be different.

- My scarf. - Hey!

Forgot something? Yes, thank you.

Hey, listen, you were fantastic up there tonight.

- Thank you. You too. - Thank you. Um...

Tomorrow's your day off, right? Yeah.

I was thinking maybe we hang out. You know, regroup.

- Regroup? - Yeah.

- What did you have in mind? - I can't tell you, it's a surprise.

But what I will tell you is I'll swing by around noon.

How is that? That sounds great.

I'm game. Great! See you then.

- See you then. - Alright.

It is so not a date!

Think of it as a working field trip.

Then why are you wearing your good earrings?

Because I lost one of my bad earrings.

I just don't want you getting your hopes up.

- For what? - Julian Walker.

According to this, he's unavailable.

- Well, I see. - It's true.

There's pictures of him here all over Manhattan

with his former co-star, Samantha Cross.

- Um... - It just don't want you getting your heart broken.

Well, don't worry. This is totally safe.

Remember my rule about not dating actors?

Right. I guess I confused you with me

and my "really want to date an actor" rule.

Behave.

Hi!

Hi.

Morgan, Julian. Julian, Morgan.

Nice to meet you.

Not funny. Okay... Bye.

- Bye. - Have a great day.

- Bye. - Bye-bye.

To tell the truth, there's nothing like Christmas

in Manhattan! The energy! The sounds!

The people, the smells! It's the best thing in the world!

You know, you're right. You're right.

This town does come alive like no other.

Yeah, well that's... Alright, see?

- Yeah. - Tough town to walk away from!

You are about as subtle as a dump truck

in a dinnerware factory.

- What does that even mean? - I don't even know.

Remember this place?

Yeah. Come one.

Our old acting studio.

Let's go in.

Julian, we don't even know if it still exists.

So what? There's only one way to find out. Come on, let's go.

Okay. Okay, okay, okay.

Okay.

This place?

It's like we never left.

If the walls could talk...

They would say there is no failing,

only bold choices.

Bold, right? We were so bold!

And you...

You were so good at the improv! What?

Yes! Me, that wasn't my thing. I wasn't so great at that.

What? No, seriously? It's not what came across.

Well, that's 'cause I took my mom's advice, right?

"Fake it till you make it."

Remember that, um, that Santa reindeer thing

that we did? The fear of flying seminar.

Yes!

that was so much fun. You know, we were really good together.

We were.

Gosh, I felt so alive then.

So free.

Wait...

Is that why you brought me here?

Yeah.

You know, I don't know what happened

the day of that Thick of Thin audition.

I thought you said I threw you.

Well, you did.

But that was me.

I was afraid to take a chance.

Yeah, I understand why I didn't get that part.

- Um... - But to be honest,

the worst part about the whole thing was that I didn't get

the opportunity to work with you. We could have had fun.

Okay, so... First real professional acting gig?

That would be a fast-food commercial.

Yes.

I had so many French fries that day, I got sick.

What about you?

Um... I was an extra on a soap.

Yeah. I remember I got paid

for sitting around all day and I thought, Woah!

The worst thing that you can be doing to get paid.

This is true. Alright, subject change.

Favorite Christmas memory?

Um... You first.

Well that's easy. It was one of the times

my mom came to visit, and I got a legit job.

So I took her to see the carolers

at Rockefeller Center. Really?

And then we went and had a Christmas dinner

at Tavern on the Green with the money I'd made.

- Sounds really special. - It was, for both of us.

I can tell you really miss her.

Yeah, well after my dad passed,

it was just the two of us.

I haven't seen since... I can't even remember.

What's your favorite Christmas memory?

It would have to be here.

Yeah, in New York.

Yeah, I was ten

and there was this crazy snowstorm, and afterwards,

my dad took me and my brothers out to a snowball fight.

What, you've never done a snowball fight before?

- Nope. And I plan on keeping it that way. - Why? It's fun!

I've got a great idea. We'll do a duel. One snowball,

three steps. A duel? No.

What are you afraid of? What's wrong?

Alright.

There! See,

there's the fire in your eyes. Okay, good!

Alright, you're on! Okay, now it's three steps.

- Okay. Is that a rule? - That's a rule,

but you've got to turn around. It's the rule.

- Okay. - Okay, now don't cheat.

Okay, ready? Yeah.

One... Two... Three!

My gosh! My gosh!

Are you okay?

Geez! Whoops.

Man!

So, I guess you can scratch that

off your bucket list. Your first snowball fight.

And for the kids watching at home,

that would be Charlotte 1, Julian 0.

- No, I don't think so. I think you jumped on too. - Spoken like true sore loser.

- I'm not a sore loser. - Really?

Yeah. Now we're tied.

I had a really good time. I had a great time.

Alright.

Okay...

Goodnight. Goodnight.

Ellen, thanks for coming to New York

for this interview. It's no problem.

I had some business in town. By the way,

how is it that New York City is the only place on Earth

that can make cr�me br�l�e this scrumptious?

People say the same thing about the pizza.

There's something about this city that must be magic.

So how do you feel about a move to Chicago?

To be honest,

I've been trying to open up my mind to new possibilities,

and I'm liking the idea of a new adventure.

What a refreshing way to look at life. Change can be good.

Change can be good.

Well... You've certainly given me a lot to think about.

I do have other candidates to consider,

but you're definitely in the mix.

I'm so happy Rachel recommended you.

Really?

Hey...

Sorry, is it just me or did our apartment get smaller?

- Liz is homeless. - I'm not homeless,

I'm just domicile-deprived.

I don't think that's even a word. What happened?

I was subletting from this girl who, turns out, was subletting

from this guy who moved upstate but didn't like it,

'cause it was like too quiet. Not like it usually is here.

He showed up yesterday wanting his place back.

I'm so sorry, Charlotte.

I had no place to go. It's fine. Totally fine.

You can stay here.

You know, if you're still considering

that move to Chicago, I'd be happy to take over your lease.

Really? You would do that for me?

You're such a lamb.

Real subtle. Why don't you ask to help her pack?

What are you looking for?

Costume change. I need to go back to the theatre

wearing something festive.

Okay, how about...

this? That's perfect.

Absolutely perfect.

Thank you.

Another outing with Julian Walker?

Something like that.

Okay, I'm not even gonna dignify that with a reaction.

Um... So when the Grand Company

actually asked me to direct this season's production

of Christmas Carol, I must say I was thrilled.

But not because of what the play meant to me.

I truly believe that theme is even more relevant today

than ever, right? Not bad there, mister.

Yeah, and this theatre has such a long past with this city

and an incredible present with this show. And we're hoping

for a bright future, and that community will get involved

and support us. Come and support us!

- Please! - Merry Christmas!

Well said! Now, what do you guys think?

Talk to me.

Well, I won't lie. We'll definitely help.

- I'm sensing a "but"... - I'm sure we'll sell the run,

yes, but I'm not sure

this publicity's enough to save the theatre.

We need to cast a wider net.

Julian?

- Yeah, what's up? - Um...

I don't mean to pry into your personal life,

but I'm sure I don't have to tell you

that your former co-star Samantha Cross

is somewhat of a social media phenomenon.

With over three million followers, her endorsement

could really go a long way towards our cause.

So you're asking me to talk to Samantha?

- I think that would be amazing! - I'll see what I can do.

Good idea.

There's a Throwback Thursday for you.

That's Julian's father standing outside the theatre

with Peter Hayes. Who's the little boy?

Our current owner,

Dennis Hayes.

The times were more innocent back then.

Hey, I think they're pretty great now.

Hey, we looked pretty good out there?

Yeah, I know. We're a pretty good team.

I think it looks great, you guys.

Let's light it up. Yeah.

I got it, I got it!

- Okay, Sid, fire it up. - Here we go!

That certainly lights up

this old lobby! It certainly does!

You know, I can't remember the last time I actually...

put up a Christmas tree. You're kidding!

No. At this time of year, I'm usually traveling and working.

You really are a scrooge.

That hurt.

Okay... You got it?

Yup. Come on.

There we go. Lights.

Okay... You just had to get the biggest tree in the lot,

did you? Yup!

Woah...

I think your place can handle it, though.

Yeah, well I am kind of a minimalist, aren't I?

You know, they say a person's d�cor

is a reflection of what they want

the world to see.

I'm getting a hiding in plain sight kind of vibe.

- Really? - Yeah.

Well, if this acting thing doesn't work out, you'd make a great therapist.

- Nice deflection. - You got to psychoanalyse me,

now help me with this thing.

You know what? I think it should go right here.

It'd be the first thing people see when they walk in the door.

Okay. Well, I can see a method

to your madness. Yeah?

Perfect.

Now the fun begins. Yeah. Decorations, right?

- Um-um. - It's been a while.

I don't know how many decorations I have.

- I can make anything work. - Really? Okay,

I'll see what I got. Okay.

Lucky for you,

I am a master at Christmas decorating.

- Really? - Yep! I don't know what it is,

something about this time of year.

I just get this special feeling, like finding the right guy

to put the star on top of the Christmas tree.

I can handle it.

I've got this.

So listen... What are your plans for the New Year?

I'm still trying to figure that out. I think I'm just gonna play it by ear.

So there is no one special in your life?

No. I think that's why I'm willing

to take some risks right now. You know, shake things up.

I think I'm on the same boat. My agents think that

this theatre gig is my way of hiding from the spotlight.

Is it?

I mean, I can't imagine this whole fame thing being easy.

I mean, I don't want to complain, but yeah.

You get caught up in it once in a while.

I just know what my roommate reads in the tabloids.

Okay. About Samantha and I?

- Not my business. - That's okay.

It's not my business. But one of the reasons

I will never date an actor.

You... Okay, hold on a sec. You're not gonna date an actor?

No, hard-and-fast rule. Never ends well.

I think I would do better with, like, an accountant type.

No-no-no.

Boring. Way too safe. Safe? Don't knock safe.

Safe is good. Safe is dependable,

especially when you're living paycheck to paycheck.

Alright. Still boring, though.

Let's light this thing up. What do you think? Ready?

- Yeah. - Three... Two...

- Looks great. - It's so great.

I gotta hand it to you, Charlotte,

you really know how to bring life to a room.

Okay... Toast!

Yeah. Thank you.

- To... - The most perfect tree.

- The most perfect tree. - Like, ever.

No, Mom, I already told you I'm not gonna make it home

for Christmas. Okay...

I have to figure out a way to nail this McMann account

so I can get that promotion that I deserve.

Are you kidding me?

Who's phone is that?

Who's phone is that? Come on, anyone?

You know what, I'm sorry.

I think it's mine. I thought I turned it off.

Okay, um...

It's fine, Charlotte. Let's take five.

Rach?

Hi! Yeah,

I know I owe you a phone call. I've just been so busy.

I know! I see. Looks like you

and your almost Thick or Thin co-star have become quite thick!

- Please! - Merry Christmas!

I am actually at rehearsal right now, so can I please

call you tonight?

I'm just calling with some huge news.

You got the job!

That is great news.

Um... But I'm at rehearsal right now,

so I'll call you tonight, okay?

In the meantime, I'm going to pick out your office.

Okay, bye.

Well... It looks like Julian finally dialed up the heat.

He must have contacted that Samantha Cross

because our theatre's Twitter feed is buzzing.

- So that's good? - Yes, very good!

The story of our theatre's plight

is going out to millions of Samantha's followers.

- Woah... - This is just the shot in the arm we need.

I don't understand. Why did it take Julian

so long to ask Samantha to get involved?

Well...

I think their relationship status

is complicated.

- Everything okay? - Great, yeah.

I put my phone on silent.

Thanks. Okay, let's get back at it.

Um... Charlotte, let's try this again.

Hey, Char, be honest. What do you think?

Really nice. You're going to a Christmas party?

Yeah, an ugly Christmas sweater party.

Well, then you look perfect.

What's going on with you?

You've been in a funk ever since you got back from rehearsal.

I'm fine. I'm just, you know, burning it at all ends.

I have an extra sweater if you want to join.

I would,

but I still have another shift I have to cover before Christmas.

Right. But you must be getting pretty excited, right?

- For what? - Your show!

- Right! - We should go.

- Yes, I'd love to go. - We'll get our tickets...

We could reserve tickets ahead of time!

Excuse me, can we get the check, please?

You've been staring at that tree half the night. What's up?

I think this might be one of my last shifts at the bistro.

- You mean for the year? - I mean for forever.

I got offered that job in Chicago.

So you're gonna take it?

I don't see how I can turn it down.

It's a great salary, plus a moving bonus.

My friend Rachel lives there, my mom lives there.

Are you trying to sell me or sell yourself?

I said I needed a change.

And change is never easy.

And as much fun as I'm having doing this play...

I just can't keep living like this.

Yeah.

Coming!

Merry early Christmas!

You didn't have to bring me this.

I know. I wanted to.

Let's see...

Where can we put a little more Christmas?

How about right here? Sure.

- Perfect. - Yeah, looks great.

So...

I got your message.

What's going on? Are you okay?

Well, let's start with the... the good news, shall we?

The place looking spectacular, thanks largely due to you.

And you. And the entire Grand Company.

- Yes. - What else?

I just got offered another TV series in LA.

That's... great, right? That's exciting.

Sure, it's exciting, until you open up and read the script.

It's just another watered down version of the same thing

I've been playing for the last five years.

I'm grateful I'm working, but I don't...

I don't want to spend the next five years doing the same thing.

I get it.

We're kind of in a similar situation.

I got offered that job in Chicago.

Congratulations. That's exciting.

Do you maybe want to say that again,

but this time with a little more feeling?

You know, congratulations! That's exciting!

- It is! - Man...

Can I ask you something?

How did we get here?

I don't think it's about how we got here.

I think the real question is,

Where are we headed?

It's like Grand Central Station.

Um... Hold that thought.

Merry Christmas, Julian.

Samantha. Hi.

What a surprise.

Um... Samantha, this is Charlotte.

She's the star of the Broadway show we're doing tomorrow night.

Yeah, our holiday play. This is our star.

Yeah, that's me. And this is my exit.

- Wait, I wanted to talk to... - No, have a good night.

Do you want to come in, Samantha?

Are you okay?

Yeah, I'm good. Come on in.

Come on, let me fix you a drink.

And all three spirits will live inside forever.

Perfect. Love it! Good work, everyone.

It was great. Yeah?

You sure you don't want me to... No, no, no.

Come on, I don't want to over rehearse. Let's keep it fresh.

It was wonderful! Fresh, right. Fresh is good.

Yes! Everyone, listen up! We're going to be doing

curtain calls before the show tonight. Naomi.

Thanks, Julian.

Everyone has a call sheet. Hair and makeup for feature players

is 5pm, sharp. And before you leave,

please, everyone, I'll need all costumes on the rack

to be accounted for, please. Thank you.

Thank you.

So, listen... How are you feeling about the show tonight?

I guess as good as I can, right?

I mean, the butterflies are definitely starting to flutter.

Well, it's okay. Just relax. If you're half as good

as you were in the rehearsal, I'm wrapped on your finger.

Listen...

- You go. - No, you go.

Okay, um...

I wanted to talk to you about last night.

Samantha and I,

we're not... Julian, it's fine.

Really. It's not even any of my business.

No, I understand that, but it got a little awkward

when you left, and I didn't want you to get the wrong idea.

I'm taking the job in Chicago.

- You are? - Yes. Yes.

I am.

I don't understand. Why the change of heart?

I just...

really don't feel like there's anything left for me here.

I mean, hey,

if that's what you want to do, I'm happy for you.

Thanks.

Okay, well, I should get changed.

Yeah.

No, I understand the boardroom being in the center.

I don't understand it being as small as...

Mr. Hayes? Hi.

Hi. Charlotte Miller. Thank you for coming.

I had meetings scheduled. So, you're one of the players

of the soon-to-be defunct theatre group,

I assume? One of the visiting members,

yes. I really hope

you didn't ask me here to give me a piece of your mind.

Not exactly.

I discovered this inside the theatre and I thought

you should have it. What is this?

A photo of the old gang?

Hoping to pull at my heartstrings, are we?

Actually, it's a photo of you and your father,

and Julian's father in front of the Grand Theatre.

- Innocent times? - Yes.

Yes, they were.

I understand your father was a big supporter of the arts.

He called this his folly.

He had a head for business, but the heart of a starving artist.

Maybe he sensed there was room for both.

Miss Miller,

I'm honestly not trying to be the bad guy here.

This is just about good business.

I understand.

But your father did find a way for arts and business

to coexist and turn a profit. True,

but at a time when this was a thriving art district.

Hey, have you checked your social media?

Our little show is gonna be the next big thing!

Alright, well... Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas. Thank you.

Listen, I need you to make sure the crew double-checks

all the spots, okay? I'm not it.

Great.

By the way, thanks to you, our social media has been on fire.

Ever since that girlfriend of yours took to Twitter...

Okay, hold on. Sorry, um...

That person is not my girlfriend.

I'm sorry.

- It's okay. - I didn't mean to assume.

- No problem. - But with any luck,

she might just help us save the place.

Hi there, Julian. I got one here for you.

And here's yours. What's this?

That's a crew gift. Charlotte got us one.

That's nice of her. Alright, thanks.

Hey, break a leg. I'm proud of you.

You know, your dad would really be proud.

Thanks, Franny.

I'd like to think so too.

So, tell me something.

Are you really gonna let her get away?

- Franny... - I've been in the business

long enough to know when I see true chemistry.

Unfortunately, I think I'm too late.

Charlotte's already made up her mind, so...

Maybe.

Have you made up yours?

Okay, guys, break a leg.

Keep the energy up in the first act, okay?

Hey, Mom!

I tried you earlier, I guess you're not around.

Um... I miss you. I will try you after the show, okay?

I love you. Merry Christmas.

Look at the ceiling!

Check.

Alright, here we go, everybody.

I'm so sorry. I think I just pulled too hard.

No harm. Maybe it's a good omen. Good as new.

- Thank you. - Break a leg.

- Have a good show! - Thank you!

- How are you doing? - Me? I'm great.

I should be asking you that question.

- I'm... surprisingly calm. - Good.

Good to hear. Um...

I also wanted to... give you this.

It's... just for insurance.

It's, um... It's a prop from my dad's first performance

in Merchant of Venice. A Shakespearian part.

I used to take it with me on auditions for good luck.

Thank you.

Hey, just be you. You'll be great.

I love it.

Okay... Yeah, um... Yes?

I just want to say thank you for everything.

- Yeah, great. - We have a seat out there

for you, okay? You want me out there?

- Enjoy the show! - Okay, thank you.

Alright, everybody, here we go!

Break legs. Have a great show, everybody.

Are you ready?

I learned to heed the past, honor my present

and maybe, most of all, keep hope alive

towards a bright future. And so,

God bless us, everyone.

Thank you.

Woo-oo!

Hey, it's my mom!

You deserve it.

- Sweetheart! Sweetheart! - Mom!

- You were incredible! - You were amazing!

Thank you! I'm so glad you got to see it!

How did you get here? I wouldn't have missed it

for the world! At least that's what I kept telling

that Julian fellow when he offered to fly me out here.

- He did? - You crushed it!

- You guys! - Best show ever!

Thank you, guys! Thank you so much!

Charlotte, honestly. I mean, I knew you were good, but...

- Gary! - You were so amazing!

- Thank you! - I'll say,

you came alive out there on that stage.

Rachel, I can't take

that job in Chicago. Please.

I figured that out by the end of the first act.

Really? You're not mad?

No!

Guys, can you turn down the music, please? Thanks.

Um... Everybody obviously knows Mr. Dennis Hayes here,

our landlord and owner of the Grand.

If you can give him a moment of your time, he has a few words.

Um, everyone, please. Just give him a chance, okay?

I know this might be impossible to believe,

but Mr. Hayes is actually seeing the lights

about what this theatre means to the community.

I'm a businessman first,

and have holdings in many properties in the area.

Now, due to the exposure

all that social media has generated,

developers are clamoring to revive the old theatre district.

And...

you can't have an old theatre district

without an old theatre.

It appears keeping you people in business

is good business.

So what you're saying, Mr. Hayes,

is that the Grand Theatre Company lives on?

I think our fathers would be proud.

It's a Christmas miracle!

Woo! Awesome!

Come on!

Okay, a toast! A toast!

- Yes. - To the Grand Company!

The Grand Company!

Woo!

You were wonderful tonight.

Play me out, Gary!

Cheers, you guys!

- Cheers! - Julian, you really know

how to throw a surprise party. You guys, anytime!

Hey! Cheers, you guys. Cheers!

Congratulations! You guys were wonderful!

This one is for you. Thank you!

And thank you for all of this.

It's a special night.

So listen, you were the one,

weren't you, who convinced Hayes to keep us going?

His bark is worse than his bite.

Actually, no, they're both really bad.

But we did find a common ground. You're amazing, really.

Thanks.

Yeah, for the first time like, ever,

I'm actually starting to believe that.

Good. You should.

So where's Samantha?

Last time I heard, she was on her way to Greece

for a holiday with her new boyfriend.

Why are you looking at me like that?

You assumed I was still dating her?

I didn't know! It's not my business.

Speaking of business, what's going on

with this trip to Chicago to start a new career?

Um...

I'm passing on that job. Okay.

Yeah. No risk, no reward, right?

I think I'm gonna stay around New York and,

I don't know, see where that leads me.

Well, that certainly could pose a problem.

Some problems?

- No! - Let's get out of here.

Let's go, let's go. Let's go outside.

I don't want to leave, so I decided, you know what?

I'm gonna pass on that gig out in LA,

so I can devote more of my time here

as the new artistic director.

That's fantastic!

- Thank you. - So, what's the problem?

Well, come on,

you have this hard-and-fast rule about never dating an actor.

Well, you know what they say about rules, right?

What's that?