What is your full name and character(s) played?
-Kerri Shawn, Ghost of Christmas Past and the Charwoman in A Christmas Carol. Also, Tucker the Elf, in FFAE’s The Biggest Gift.
How long have you been playing this character?
-I have been in CenterREP’s A Christmas Carol for over 23 years. I played Mrs. Cratchit for over 16 years, then moved to Ghost of Christmas past. Now I have been playing Charwoman these past few years. I have played Tucker the Elf in The Biggest Gift for 17 years. It has all been a privilege and a joy! A Christmas Carol has always been one of my favorite stories, and being a part of Fantasy Forum’s The Biggest Gift is deeply meaningful for me.
What has playing these characters in A Christmas Carol taught you about yourself?
-I never tire of this story and these characters. I love them all and this story continues to teach me about life. Every rehearsal and performance I listen to Ken Ruta’s narration and watch every scene unfold from off stage. Playing Past especially has taught me to be more observant and embrace that each day brings lessons to learn. It’s important to pay attention daily, and as Past says to Scrooge, “Listen carefully.”
What rituals/things do you do to prepare for this role?
-I am personally a spiritual person so in preparing for Past, I tap into my genuine interest in my own spirituality and spirits. Preparing for the Charwoman grows as I observe the homeless. I have found getting into the costumes and shoes of these characters becomes a ritualistic anchor for me every performance. The outer dressings of these characters I play pulls me deeper into the authentic feelings and heartbeats of them.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time?
-I love to walk with my dog, Finian. I also love spending my spare time in nature, writing and reading. I love music, theatre and film and am excited that I can not only act again, but also return as a theatre goer!
What is the meaning of Christmas to you?
-Love, forgiveness, acceptance, peace and joy. I find all of these throughout the holiday season in holiday stories, music, lights, solitude, and in spending meaningful time with family and friends.
If you could give one piece of advice, what would it be?
-The sun rises and sets no matter what is happening around us. There will always be challenges throughout life’s journey and I have discovered that striving to be present is where I can find my strength. I read a quote the other day that said “Whatever is, is the teacher.” I love this! There is so much to learn in a lifetime and the more I stay present and pay attention, the more open I am to learning, growing and evolving. I want to keep learning and understanding. I never want to stop growing.
How has the pandemic changed the way you approach this role/acting in general?
-This pandemic has deepened my love for storytelling, acting and live theatre because for almost two years we could not gather in person. I missed my theatre family. I missed the creative process and being a part of an ensemble of artists. I feel deeply grateful to return to rehearsals and the creative process. It is an honor to connect with my fellow actors and work together to bring this wonderful story of A Christmas Carol to life and share it with our audiences.
What are you looking forward to the most in life right now?
-I realize more and more how fast life goes. The days whiz by and before you blink, another year has passed. I just celebrated my 70th birthday and as I begin my 7th decade I know I don’t want to miss anything. I want to stay close to my family and friends, nature, new adventures, and all that I love. I want to keep learning and striving to be present, keep my senses open to the world inside of me and all around me. I am counting my many blessings and will continue to be deeply grateful.
