Original subtitles

Little white flakes of snow whisper through the air.

Twinkling lights flicker and shine around Times Square.

It's that time of year when hearts are filled with tears and darkness

outside.

I just love this time of year.

And I love it even more shopping at Maven's, because the prices are so low,

like every day is Christmas.

Jake? Want to say anything else?

Uh, no, no, I think that's okay.

So next? We'll send our Christmas cards from here and far

away.

Charlotte?

Yes? Sorry. Sorry.

Excuse me.

Excuse me.

Every day

is Christmas. Every day is Christmas.

Every day is Christmas.

Today is the first day of the rest of your life.

You know what? I've had a lot of first days. I would actually like a second.

Thank you.

Hey, Mom.

Yeah, I actually just got out of an audition.

Nice. 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

get the part.

So, how was your Thanksgiving?

Well, Uncle Carl wants to know when your cereal commercial is going to air

again, and Grandma wants me to tell you that Brat Pit is single again.

Oh, 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.

And I have faith in you, Charlotte.

Thanks, Mom.

Then 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.

Rachel from college?

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

Right. And who doesn't love a hopeless pragmatic?

Okay. I love you, hon.

Okay. Bye.

Hey, have you seen the remote?

Uh, it should be on the coffee table.

Never mind. Found it.

Julian Walker stars in Sick or Thin.

Tune in tonight at 8 o 'clock, 7 central.

I cannot believe you watched this.

It was 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 fork and 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? Wow.

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, Pam?

You know what?

Maybe you should stop watching these boring reruns and get out the rest of

Christmas decorations.

Ah, humbug.

Great.

Bye. Bye.

Oh, it feels like a hundred years between drinks.

Speaking of, how was the eggnog? It was perfect.

So, you didn't come home again this year for Thanksgiving.

No, my roommate and I had a Friendsgiving.

I know everyone brings a special day.

I know, silly.

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

Oh, gosh, how quickly time flies.

All right, I know you must loathe the question, but how was it going?

Well... I am up for a big commercial.

That's good.

And? You happy?

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

You are still collecting all the corny things.

Hey, 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.

Were you this close to lining the lead in Thicker 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

downs. Oh, yeah, the constant cloud of rejection mixed with the occasional rays

of hope and sunshine. Well, then maybe it's time for a change.

Okay,

I wasn't going to mention this, but they're looking for a new coordinator

employee then at my company.

Oh. Please. I am so not qualified.

Says who?

You know the last woman in the job? She actually had a degree in theater.

Seriously? Yes.

Thanks, 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 about it.

Terrific salary, with benefits, and you get to be in Chicago with me.

I mean...

Wouldn't that be fun?

Okay, 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.

Okay.

It was so good to see you, Rachel. Okay,

we'll talk soon? Yes, please.

Bye. I love you. Love you.

Live in 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?

Uh, 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 -spiced pumpkin bread, always a solid choice. Or

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

I think I'll take a half a dozen.

Hey, I like it.

Gary, can you help me with the takeout order?

Yep. Half a dozen of the ginger -spiced pumpkin bread and a half a dozen of the

peppermint cupcakes.

Got it.

There you go.

Thanks,

Charlotte. How did you know my name?

Uh... Oh, right.

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

And a potluck, huh? That sounds fun.

What's the occasion?

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

It's annual Christmas dinner.

Is that so?

Mars Charlotte is quite the actress.

That I am.

And tonight, I will be acting as your waitress.

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

Oh, no, no. I mean, not since college. I've done some commercials and some

roles. Nice.

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

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

Okay, 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.

Okay, here you go.

Hope to see you around.

And I'm looking forward to being seen.

Good night.

Good night.

Have you ever thought about trying out for the live theater? 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.

And I'm getting kind of tired of chasing a 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.

Oh, mind closing the cafe tonight? My wife is hoping that we'll put up a

Christmas tree.

Aw, of course.

Go have fun.

Thanks. Bye.

To the Grand Repertory Company.

I want to thank each one of you for welcoming me back.

Oh, who's that?

And enter dessert.

Dessert. 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 theater.

Flattery will get you everywhere.

How you doing, buddy?

The real star of this production.

America's favorite award -winning TV star. Oh, come on. How's the series

It's great. We did five years, and now we're on to the next, right? Oh, I told

Sid to check out the entire Thicker Thin Experience.

Okay, I'm sure you did.

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

Do 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 theater, 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 product was done following in his father's footsteps. Okay, let's not get

ahead of ourselves. There's a huge shoes to fill, okay?

You know, the Christmas Carol is a big chestnut to crack, particularly for a

first -time director.

You're nervous?

Me?

I'm a TV star, not to mention I was nominated for People's Choice Award for

Nervous. Ah, come on, it's for kids.

No, I'm utterly terrified.

Okay,

there's a glass here, it's empty.

They started decorating without me?

Sorry, we sort of got carried away.

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.

Oh, go on, Liz. Do the line from it. No. Oh, it's so good. No. Yes, do it.

Okay.

Shopping at Maven's, it's like every day is Christmas.

So good.

It's amazing.

We're going to go celebrate and have a glass of champagne. Do you want to come

with? No.

No. I mean, I am just exhausted.

But you guys should go.

Yeah, you should celebrate.

Okay.

Okay, Rafe.

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

Really? Are you serious?

Serious is a broken dream.

Julian, have you thought about the design aesthetic for this year's

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

Costumes as well.

Yeah, right there, that's my worry. That's the same thing that's happening

the time. It's tried and true. People have seen that millions and millions of

times, guys. Maybe, but there's a comfort in familiarity.

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

Look, I know that comforting, but we need to do something inspiring, not

comforting. Something exciting, something refreshing, something real.

Something from, hey, from here.

Okay?

Do you want to 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.

Cheers.

Table

for

two? Absolutely.

Thank you. I appreciate it. Thank you.

You've got two live ones on your station.

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.

Oh, 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.

Rockslaw actress.

Fantastic.

Well, you are too kind.

I don't want to give you. I just, you know, was coming to say hello, so I'm

going to... Excuse me.

Charlotte, I need you to take me to table seven. We have a party of nine. I

to set up.

Um, okay.

I'll do it.

Anyway, well, I better get going.

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

Right.

A part I've been born to play for the rest of my life.

Hey, Charlotte. Just got back to Chicago.

Uh, just four more blocks, sir.

Thanks. No problem.

Okay, so, Operation Charlotte is officially in motion.

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

Well, I told my boss how awesome you are.

How you've held three jobs three times to pursue your dream of being an

But, do you actually consider that an asset?

Definitely. Show through your goal -oriented.

Now, you just have to show her your passionate, goal -oriented, multitasker.

In a phone interview?

No.

My boss is coming to New York and plans on seeing if everything I said about you

is true.

Whoa.

Okay.

I'm scared.

Don't be.

Just be you.

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

Okay, I will be the best version of me that I can muster, and if that doesn't

work, I'll fake it.

Okay. Bye.

Bye. What was that about?

Oh, I have a job interview next week.

Ooh. What's the part?

It's not an acting gig.

It's a real job.

Like in the real world.

Uh -oh. I heard about those ones.

Entirely overrated.

Carrie, I'm going to 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 Faith'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.

Hey, Naomi, do me a favor, okay?

Looks great, you guys. I love it.

We'll get a lot of inquiries.

I'll give you that.

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

I'm not exactly sure what to expect.

What to expect, Naomi, is that we're going to make sure that the actors only

have one minute for audition.

That way we'll be moving on a quicker clip.

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

Just be prepared to sift through a lot of coal.

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

When you see the glass half empty.

I'm going to make you a deal. You give me until tomorrow afternoon.

I promise to vote for you.

I will have a decision on the direction of the flag, okay?

All right. I'm going inside to get warm.

I'll say this about our Julian. He definitely thinks outside the box. Well,

hopefully this little exercise in futility will put him back inside the

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 your tired

Yeah, well, you better wake up because I've got a great audition coming down

pipe for you.

Oh, yeah? What's the character's genre?

Lady at the counter? Woman in the background?

No, listen. There's a new theatrical production for Christmas Carol.

And the company's holding open calls.

They're doing a whole new interpretation.

I thought you loved the book.

I mean, how many times have you read it?

More times than I care to admit.

Which means that you're perfect for this project.

Plus, the director requested you personally.

Really? Who's the director?

Uh, they didn't say. Listen, all you need to do is come up with a killer

monologue and go in there and knock their socks off tomorrow.

Are you in?

Okay, yeah.

Wish me luck.

The fact is that there's not that many parts for me in this play. I'm too old

for Belle, I'm too young for Mrs. Feswig, and all the other parts are for

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 going to go for broke, I may as well put it all on the line,

right?

What are you thinking?

Where's my computer?

Oh, computer!

Okay.

Enter Erlinda Scrooge.

Yes.

That's right.

God bless everyone.

That was great. Thank you. That was...

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

Okay, we'll be in touch.

You're not serious. No, I'm not. That's terrible.

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

I'm getting a coffee.

Um... Charlotte, is that you?

Uh, yeah.

I'm sorry, I can't... It's me.

Oh, Sid, hi.

You're here to audition, I hope.

Yes.

Yes, I am.

That's great.

Who is the director?

Hi, Charlotte.

Oh.

Um... You know what? I'm sorry.

I knew this was a big mistake.

Short and pithy. I won't give her that much.

Charlotte, wait!

Wait. Please, come on. Hey, listen.

Please tell me that you're not up with a thicker than audition.

No, look, I just changed my mind. I don't want to do this anymore. And by

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 played it safe.

I blame you because you didn't warn me. I just took a chance, and it paid off.

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

Okay. 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

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.

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.

All right, boss.

That was the final audition.

Anything to stick?

No. Afraid not.

They give each one of them credit for trying.

Franny, what's that saying?

Nothing ventured, nothing gained.

Oh, excuse me.

Hi, sorry, am I too late?

Yes, I'm sorry, we're all... No, no, 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's 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, at least I, anyway, can relate to.

Interesting.

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

Great.

Is it okay to use... You can use the whole stage.

What's her name?

Charlotte.

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

sees.

From now on, I vow to heed my past and honor my present while keeping hope

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.

Could you wait in the lobby for just 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 couldn't work. It just feels really ambitious.

Come on. Any ambition is good.

Not when you're on a time crunch.

Plus, Charlotte's an unknown queen. I want to see.

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

recipe for disaster. Okay, I know you're scared.

I get it. We're all scared, right?

But when you see something like that that's not inspiring, you jump on it.

Right?

What do you guys say?

Charlotte, I have some news.

Now, it wasn't unanimous by any means, but we all got together and thought

it long and hard and came to the consensus.

It's okay.

I understand.

You're our new Scrooge.

What?

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've got a lot of work to do before Christmas.

I understand.

But you, you sure are exactly what we've been looking for.

Seriously?

Yes. Yes.

Seriously.

Seriously.

Thank you.

Oh, group hug.

My goodness.

Congratulations.

Thank you. Congratulations.

Hello?

Mom? I'm sorry. It's so late. It's just I couldn't wait until morning.

Okay. Now I'm excited. What's happened?

I just landed a part.

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

Oh, sweetheart, that is incredible.

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

What is your part?

Well, it's a loose adaptation of the Dickens classic, and I am playing

Scrooge. I love it already.

Thanks, Mom.

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

But that is... Totally fine, darling. I completely understand.

And I'm just so proud of you.

Really? And we can just see each other in the new year.

Celebrate your success.

Yes, that we will.

All right, I love you, Mom.

I love you, baby.

Okay, good night.

Samantha! Sorry, I didn't mean to startle you. I was just hoping to

so we can finally do some catching up.

Um, very kind of you.

Um, but I thought I... She can 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 I'm 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. A hundred percent.

But unfortunately, not the time.

Can I take a rent check?

Sorry.

It's okay.

I just have to go.

They're waiting for me, you know what I mean?

We'll, uh, you know, I'll call you and we'll try to reschedule when the play's

over, you know what I mean? Yeah.

Jillian. 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.

Uh, not for ten minutes.

Well, then, great. Have a seat.

Um, this is the rehearsal schedule. Not to mention some preliminary production

design. And this, we need to work on this, okay? This is going to be our

office. Yes.

But I do need to work.

Right. A little work.

Um, why, you work here?

I'll work here. Okay. I like it.

I'll be right here. Okay.

Morning, Charlotte.

Good morning, Gary.

I haven't seen you wearing that smile in a while.

Oh, so I guess you heard the good news.

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

Oh, 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 want to be.

That's fair.

And what I love the most is that what's happening to Relinda's character is that

she's not sounding anything like Ebenezer.

Exactly. And did you notice in the entire script there's not a single

Because it's real, and it's contemporary, and it's modern, right?

exactly what we discussed at the lovely idea. Yes.

Hey, you creative folks. I wish I could let you stay, but I got to close up.

Come on, you sure we can't stay?

Just give us a little more time. Sorry.

No, he's actually right. People are going to keep walking by and seeing the

light on. They're going to think we're open. We're not going to get any work

done. Right. All right, I have an idea.

Let's go to an all -night diner.

Actually, I think I have a better idea.

Okay.

You're a real triple threat, you know that?

And you can act, you can write, and obviously you can bake.

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

Hey, my mom was the real baker in the house.

There was nothing like her famous icebox snowball cooking.

Wow.

I'm not an expert, though, Charlotte, but that doesn't look like a snowball

cooking. I said my mom was the baker. Oh, okay.

Okay, 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.

Hmm.

And who wouldn't want that, right?

Well, that's the point.

I like that. Okay.

Second chance.

To second chances.

So what made you want to direct?

Um, I suppose I'm, uh, I'm looking for my second chance to.

Yeah, my dad, um, huge influence on me in the theater.

You know, growing up, Christmas was never about being around Christmas tree

presence or anything like that. It was about being around him and being on the

stage. Wow.

Yeah. So you really are a theater rat.

I was, yeah.

And then came TV.

Now, my agents are dying for me to go back to it, but when this play came to

I just couldn't turn it down.

And I didn't want to miss this opportunity.

Well, that makes two of us.

All right, let's get back to work.

Yeah.

Okay. Okay.

Opening act three. Mm -hmm.

Good morning, the grand company.

Thank you.

You know, in the wee hours of the morning, Charlotte and I, working

put together the final touches on our little production here.

You must be running on pure adrenaline.

That and plenty of Christmas cookies.

Okay, you know, I got to ask. Somebody answer me this, okay? How is my cohort

crime look brighter on Bush here than I do this morning?

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

Well, that makes two of us. There you go.

Think we can talk casting?

Yes. Good point. I know me 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? You handle that?

I'll find it soon enough. Yes, we will.

And the ghost of Christmas present is going to... What are you looking at?

Oh, speak of the present.

Uh, Dennis Hayes, what do we owe the pleasure?

I was hoping we might have a word.

Up there?

Please.

Let's take five, okay?

Okay, everybody, we are back at 1153.

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

Oh, of course, yeah. Who is Dennis Hayes?

The real company Scrooge.

He owns the place.

Inherited from his father, who was a real arts lover.

I see. And his son?

Not so much.

I'll meet you over there. Okay.

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.

No, you're planning on mowing it down.

Your lease ends this year.

hard for me to make this decision, but I'm putting this place on the market

January.

What are you doing? What about the theater company?

We've been here for 50 years.

Unfortunately, that's not my concern.

Property in this city is far more valuable than the pandemic.

Um,

everybody, if, uh,

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

Guys, can I have your attention?

I have a short announcement to make.

Production of Christmas Carol this season is going to be the theater

final performance.

What?

I don't understand. This theater has been around for... Generations.

I know.

Trust me.

You're welcome here.

Its owner supported her vision.

And unfortunately, this guy... Only supports the bottom line.

So, what can we do?

I say we give this little theater of ours the greatest send -off ever.

We put together the best holiday show ever.

That's it?

And then what, we...

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

Julian, I don't need to tell you. This theater company has been my family.

Guys, I'm sorry.

Well, I guess our company will have to find another space to perform it 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 going to 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?

Well, in that case, I guess it's just the season to find one.

Excuse me.

Hi. Hi.

Suck a punch table for one, please. Yeah, I take it you didn't see that

Did you?

I don't think anybody saw it coming.

That is the business.

Oh, 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

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

dad whispering in my ear.

Is he the one they encourage to be nice? 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 let's just name him on now.

I'm sorry.

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

Lives on life support.

Oh, 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. Okay, what's the priority, then?

Mount to play or stay at the theater? Both.

I knew you'd say that.

Yeah. You thirsty?

Uh, yeah. And I'm hungry, too.

Oh, that's good.

Menu. Great.

Great.

Okay, people, we have to show Mr. Hayes the grand is worth keeping before the

new year.

What's up all night?

And this is my conclusion. The only way we're going to save the grand is getting

people interested in what we're saving, right? Right. And right now, what we

know is we have a show opening in a week and a half at a website that is so

ancient it can't even take online purchases.

Oh, I think I helped design that in 1997.

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

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

We need buzz for the grand.

We've got to get...

People knowing what we're doing for the community, you know? You know how many

careers were watched from this theater?

Oh, 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

theater is New York's best -kept secret.

But we're going to change that.

Because we're going to give this theater the buzz and publicity it deserves.

Right? Even if it means drawing on your celebrity?

I don't know.

Whatever it takes.

And what it takes right now is a selfie.

Charlotte, hold up.

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.

I really think this time it's going to be different.

You know what? This time it is going to be different.

Hey. Oh.

Forgot something.

Thank you.

Hey, listen, you were fantastic up there tonight.

Thank you.

You too. Thank you.

Tomorrow's your day off, right? Yeah. Okay. I was thinking maybe we'd hang out

and, you know, regroup.

Regroup? Yeah.

What did you have in mind?

Well, I can tell you if you're surprised.

But what I will tell you is I'll swim by around noon. How's that?

That sounds great.

I'm game.

Great. Okay. See you then. See you then. All right.

It is so not a date.

Think of it as a working field trip.

Uh -huh. 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.

Oh, well, I see.

It's true.

There's pictures of him here all over Manhattan with his former co -star,

Samantha Cross.

I just don't want you getting your heart broken. Well, don't worry. This is

totally safe. Remember my rule about not dating actors?

Oh, right.

I guess I confused you with me and my really want to date an actor rule.

Behave.

Morgan. Julian.

Julian Morgan.

Nice to meet you.

Not funny.

Okay. Bye.

Bye. Have a great day. Bye. Bye -bye. Bye.

Wow.

Tell the truth.

There's nothing like Christmas in Manhattan.

The energy.

The sound.

The people, the smells. No, you're right. You're right.

This town does come alive like no other.

Yeah, it does.

All right, see?

Yeah. It's uptown to walk away from.

Wow. You are about as subtle as a dump truck in a dynamite factory.

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

Remember this place?

Wow. Yeah.

Come on.

Oh, that means studio.

Let's go in.

Let's go in. We don't even know if it still exists.

It's so quiet. There's only one way to find out. Come on, let's go.

Okay. Okay, okay, okay.

Wow.

Look at this place, huh?

It's like we never left.

If these walls could talk.

They would say there is no failing, only bold choices.

Bold, right?

They were so bold.

And you, oh, you were so good at the improv.

What? Yes.

Me, that wasn't my thing. What? No, seriously?

It's not what came across.

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

Fake it till you make it.

Oh, remember that, um...

That Santa reindeer thing that we did? It's your flying seminar.

Yeah.

Oh, it 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 ticket and 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.

But to be honest, the first thought about the whole thing was that I didn't

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 ate so many french fries that day I got sick.

What about you?

I was an extra on a soap.

Ooh. Yeah.

Remember, I got paid for sitting around. I thought, whoa, there are worse things

you could be doing to get paid. This is true.

Let me tell you. All right, subject change. Okay. Favorite Christmas memory.

Oh, you first.

Oh, that's easy.

It was one of the times my mom came to visit, and I got a legit job.

Okay. So I took her to see the Carolers at Rockefeller Center.

Really? And then we went and had a Christmas dinner at the Tavern on the

with money I made.

Yeah. Sounds really special.

It was for both of us.

Yeah. I can tell you really miss her.

Yeah. Well, after my dad passed, it was just the two of us.

I haven't seen her since.

I don't even remember.

What's your favorite Christmas memory?

It would have to be here.

Yeah, New York.

Yeah, I was 10, and it was a crazy snowstorm. And afterwards, my dad took

me and my brothers out for a snowball fight. Oh.

You've never done a snowball fight before? Nope. What? And I plan on

that way. Why? It's fun. I've got a great idea. We'll do a duel.

One snowball, three steps. A duel? Yeah. No.

What are you afraid of? What's wrong?

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

All right, you're on.

Okay. Okay. Now, three steps.

Okay. Is that the rule? That's the rule, but you've got to turn around.

It's the rule. Okay. Okay, now don't cheat.

Okay. Okay, ready? Yeah.

One. One.

Two. Three.

Oh! Oh, my gosh! Oh, my gosh! Oh, my gosh! Are you okay?

Oh,

man.

I guess you can scratch that off your bucket list, right? Your first snowball

fight? And for the kids watching at home, that would be Charlotte won,

No, I don't think so. I think you jumped on, too. Oh, spoken like a true sore

loser. I'm not a sore loser.

Really? Yeah, when I retired.

I'm sorry.

I had a really good time.

I had a great time.

All right.

Okay.

Good night.

Good night.

Thanks for coming to New York for this interview.

Oh, it's no problem. I have some business in town. By the way, how is it

New York City is the only place on Earth that can make creme brulee 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.

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

Liz is homeless.

I'm not homeless. I'm just domicile -y 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

moved upstate but didn't like it because it was, like, too quiet. Not like it

usually is here in our apartment.

He showed up yesterday wanting his place back.

I'm so sorry, Charlotte. I had no place to go. 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 theater wearing something festive.

Okay, how about this?

Oh, that's perfect.

Absolutely perfect. Thank you.

Another outing with Julian Walker.

Something like that.

Okay,

I'm not even going to dignify that as a reaction.

So when the Grand Company actually asked me to direct the season's production of

Christmas Carol, obviously I was thrilled.

But not because of what the play meant to me. I truly believe that the theme is

even more relevant today than ever, right? Absolutely.

And this theater has such a long past with this city and an incredible present

with this show. And we're hoping for a bright future and the community will get

involved and support us. Come community and support us. Please. Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

Well said.

Now, what do you guys think?

Talk to me.

Well, I won't lie. It will definitely help.

I am sensing a buzz.

I'm sure we'll sell the run, yes, but I'm not sure this publicity is enough to

save the theater.

We need to cast a wider net.

Julian? Yeah?

What's up?

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?

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 theater with Peter Hayes.

Wow.

Who's the little boy?

Our current owner, Dennis Hayes.

Hmm.

The times were more innocent back then.

Hey, I think they're pretty great now.

Hey, we look pretty good out there, huh? Yeah, I know. We're a pretty good team.

Yeah?

I think it looks great, you guys.

Let's light it up. Yeah.

I got it. I got it.

Okay,

Sid. Yeah. Fired up. Here we go.

Yep. Oh!

Wow. That certainly lights up this old lobby.

It certainly does.

Yeah. You know, I can't remember the last time I actually put up a Christmas

tree. You're kidding.

No. No. This time of year, we're traveling and working. Wow.

You really are screwed.

Oh.

That hurt.

You got it? Yep.

Oh, there we go.

Lights. Okay.

You just had to get the biggest tree in the lawn, didn't you? Yep.

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 decor is a reflection of what they want the world

to see.

Oh.

I'm getting a hiding in plain sight and a vibe.

Really? Yeah.

Yeah, well, I'll tell you, if this acting thing doesn't work out, you'll

great therapist.

Nice deflection. Okay, are you going to psychoanalyze me or are you going to

help me with this thing?

You know what?

What? I think it should go right here.

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

Oh, okay. Well, I can see a method to your madness. Oh, yeah.

Perfect.

Now the fun begins.

Yeah.

Decorations, right?

Mm -hmm.

It's been a while. I don't know how many decorations I have. Oh, I can make

anything work. Really? Oh, yeah.

Okay, I'll see what I got. Okay.

Lucky for you, I am a master at Christmas decorating.

Oh, 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.

Wow, that was subtle. Yeah.

I can have one.

Got this.

Listen, what are your plans for the new year?

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

So there's no one special in your life?

Nope. I think that's why I'm willing to take some risks right now. You know,

shake things up.

Yeah, I think we're on the same boat. My agents think that this theater gig is

my way of hiding from the spotlight.

Well, is it?

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

I mean, you know, I'm not going to complain, but yeah.

Get caught up in it once in a while.

I just know what my roommate rates in the tabloids.

Oh, 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.

Okay, hold on a second. You're not going to date an actor? No.

Iron fast rule never ends well. I think I would do better with, like, an

accountant. Oh, no, no, no, no.

No, no. Boring. Way too safe.

Safe. Don't knock safe. Safe is good. Safe is dependable. Especially when

living paycheck to paycheck.

All right.

It's kind of boring, though.

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

Three, two.

Wow.

Looks great.

Oh, it's so great.

I'm going to hand a T -shirt. I don't know how to bring life to a room.

Okay.

So. Yep.

Thank you.

To. The most perfect tree.

The most perfect tree.

Like ever. Ever. Yeah.

Mom, I already told you I'm not going to make it home for Christmas.

Okay.

Oh, I have to figure out a way to nail this McMahon account so I can get that

promotion that I deserve.

Are you kidding me?

Whose phone is that?

Whose phone is that? Come on, anyone?

Oh, uh, no, I'm sorry.

I think it's mine.

I turned it off.

Okay, 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 -thicker -thin co -star have become quite fit.

Merry Christmas! I am actually at rehearsal right now, so can I please

tonight? No need to.

I'm just calling with some huge news.

You got the job!

Miss Murray loves your energy.

Oh.

Wow.

That is great news.

But I'm at rehearsal right now, so I will call you tonight, okay? Sure.

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 theater's Twitter feed is buzzing.

So that's good?

Yes, very good.

The story of our theater's plight is going out to millions of Samantha's

followers. Wow.

This is just a shot in the army need.

I don't understand. Why did they take Julian so long to ask Samantha to get

involved?

Well, I think their relationship status is complicated.

Everything okay? Great. Yep.

Set my phone on silent.

Thanks. Great. Okay. Let's get back after it, shall we?

Charlotte, let's try this again.

Hey, Char.

Be honest.

What do you think?

Oh, really nice.

You're going to a Christmas party. Yeah, an ugly Christmas letter party.

Oh. Well, then you look perfect.

What's going on with you?

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

Oh, I'm fine.

I'm just, you know, burning it all in.

I have an extra sweater if you want to join.

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

Oh, right.

But you must be getting pretty excited, right?

For what?

Your show.

Oh, right. Wow.

We should go.

Yes, I'd love to go. We'll get our ticket. Okay.

Oh, we could reserve tickets ahead of time. Yeah. But I just mean really

Christmas. Yes.

Red. Head to toe red. Head to toe bows.

Glitter. And a turtleneck. Pom -pom. Yeah, yeah. And lots of velvet.

Oh, my God.

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 hits at the bistro.

You mean for the year?

I mean for forever.

I got offered that job in Chicago.

So you're going to take it?

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

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 am having doing this play, I just can't keep living like

this.

Coming. Merry early Christmas.

You didn't have to bring me this.

I know. I want a few.

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?

You okay?

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

The play is 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 L .A.

That's great, right?

That's exciting.

Sure, no, 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 that I'm working, but 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.

There it is.

Oh, 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 we're on such a station.

Hold that thought.

Merry Christmas, Julian.

Samantha, hi.

What a surprise.

Samantha, this is Charlotte.

She's the star of our off -Broadway show. We're doing it tomorrow night.

She's our holiday.

You want to come in, Samantha?

You okay?

Yeah, no, I'm good. Come on in. Come on, let me fix your drink.

And all three spirits will live inside me forever.

Perfect. Love it.

Good work, everyone.

That's right.

Yeah? Yeah. You sure? You don't mean to, like, do... No, no, no, no. Come on. I

don't want to over -rehearse. Let's keep it fresh. It's wonderful. Fresh is

right. Fresh is good. Nice.

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 featured players is 5 p .m. 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, uh, listen, how are you feeling? Uh,

I guess as good as I can, right?

And the butterflies are definitely starting to flutter. Well, it's okay.

relax. You know, you're half as good as you were in the dress rehearsal when I'm

wrapped around your finger.

Listen, Julie. Wow.

Okay. You go. No, you go.

Okay. I wanted to talk to you about last night.

Samantha and I were not... Oh, 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

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, you know, I mean, that's what you want to do.

I'm happy for you.

Thanks.

Okay, well, I should get changed.

Yeah.

Well, I understand the boardroom being in the center. I don't understand it

being the smallest room on the floor. 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 theater group, I

assume. One of the visiting members, yes.

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

Not exact.

I discovered this inside the theater and I thought you should have it. What is

this? A photo of the old gang?

Hoping to pull up my heart strings, are we?

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

the Grand Theater.

Innocent times, huh?

Yes.

If 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.

Ms. 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 art 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 going to be the next big thing.

All right, well, Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

Thank you.

Listen, I need you to make sure the crew double -checks all the spots, okay?

I'm on it. All right, great.

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

Everything's that girlfriend of yours. Oh, okay. First, sorry.

That person is not my girlfriend.

Oh.

I'm sorry.

It's okay.

I didn't mean to assume.

No problem.

Well, with any luck, she might just help us pave the place.

On there, Julian. Brady, got one here for you.

And here's yours.

That's a crew gift.

Sure, I'll get us one.

Oh, that's nice. All right, thanks.

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

You know, your dad would really be proud.

Thanks, Freddie.

I'd like to think so, too.

So, tell me something.

Are you really going to let her get away?

Freddie. Sorry, I've been in the business long enough to know when I see

chemistry.

Well, unfortunately, I think I'm too late.

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

Maybe. If you mean it.

Okay,

guys, break a leg.

Keep the energy up in the first act, okay?

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

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

I love you.

Merry Christmas.

All right,

here we go, everybody.

Sorry, I think I just... No harm. Maybe it's a good omen.

Good as new. Thank you.

Break a leg.

Have a good show. Thank you.

How you doing?

Me? I'm great. I should be asking you that question.

I am surprisingly calm.

Good. Good to be here.

I also wanted to give you this.

It's just for insurance.

It's...

It's a prop from my dad's first performance of Merchant of Venice in

and the Poet.

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

Wow.

Thank you.

Hey, just be you. Great.

I love it.

Okay. Yeah, well, yeah. I just want to say thank you for everything.

Oh, yeah, you're great.

We have a seat out there for you, okay?

Oh, you want me up there? Enjoy the show. Okay, thank you.

All right, everybody, here we go.

Break legs.

Have a great show, everybody.

I learned to heed the past, honor my present, and maybe most of all, keep

alive towards a bright future.

And so, God bless us, everyone.

We wish you a Merry Christmas.

I'm 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, uh,

fly me out here.

He did?

You crushed it. You lied.

Thank you guys. Thank you so much.

Sharon, honestly, I mean, I knew you were good, but... Gary.

Thank you.

You came alive out there on that stage.

Rachel, I can't take that job in Chicago.

Oh, please. I figured that out by the end of the first act.

Really?

You're not mad?

No.

Guys, can you turn on the music, please?

Thanks.

Um, everybody obviously knows Mr. Dennis Page 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

light about what this theater 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 theater district.

And you can't have an old theater district.

Without an old theater. It appears keeping you people in business is good

business. Then what you're saying, Mr. Hayes, is that the Grand Theater Company

lives on. I think our fathers would be proud.

Congratulations. You guys were wonderful.

This one is for you. Thank you. And thank you for all of this. God, a

night.

Listen, you were the one, weren't you, who convinced Hayes to keep us going,

right? Ah, his bark is worse than his bite.

Actually, no, they're both really bad. But we did find a common ground.

Pretty amazing, you know that?

Thanks.

Yeah, for the first time. Like, ever.

I'm actually starting to believe that.

Good. You should.

So where's Samantha?

Oh, I don't know. Last time I heard, she was on her way to Greece for a holiday

with a new boyfriend.

Why are you looking at me like that? Oh, you assumed I was still dating her.

I didn't know.

I don't. It's not my business.

You're just speaking to business. What's going on with this trip to Chicago and

starting a new career?

Um, I'm passing on that job.

Okay. Yeah, no risk, no reward, right?

I think I'm going to stay around New York and, I don't know, see where that

leads me.

Well, that certainly could have some problems.

Some problems?

I

don't

want to leave, so I decided, you know what?

I'm going to pass on that gig out in L .A.

so I can devote more of my time.

Here is the new artistic director.

Wow!

That's fantastic!

Thank you.

So what's the problem?

Oh, come on. You've got this hard and fast ruling. I'll never date an actor.

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

What's that?

What a beautiful movie.

Thank you for watching Hallmark Movies and Mysteries' 12 Most Wonderful Movies

of Christmas.

Meet us back here next time for another all -new original premiere as the 12

Most Wonderful Movies of Christmas continues.

Maybe this is what love is, you know? Maybe this is what it feels like. So you

believe in Christmas miracles?

This is exactly when miracles happen.

The 12 Most Wonderful Movies of Christmas continues with Karen

Maggie's Christmas Miracle tomorrow night at 9 on Hallmark Movies and

See you then.