From a student: 'hard to capture in words'

In this year's production of Dickens in America: Adapted from his works and words, core company actor James Ridge acts out many of the English author's many characters, including the renowned 'bah humbug' Christmas role, Ebenezer Scrooge. Jim also played Scrooge during last winter's production of A Christmas Carol at the Children's Theatre of Madison. Recently, APT spoke with UW-Madison undergraduate and theatre major Jacob Toll, who worked with him on the production. Hear what Jacob had to say about working with Jim from a student's perspective, and the inspiration of an established actor to one just starting out. APT: Tell me about your experience working with James Ridge in A Christmas Carol? Jacob: Jim is an amazing individual with a certain charm and presence that is hard to capture in words. He's the type of person who you just want to be around because you never know what gem is going to come flying out of his mouth next. He's also very sincere and won't hesitate to give out helpful tips to anyone willing to listen. APT: As a student studying theatre, what did you take away from working with Jim? Jacob: The professionalism he brings to the rehearsals every day. I won't say that Jim is perfect, and I'm sure he never would either, but he does his hardest to get close to that. Seeing Jim in action day in and day out showed to me that from the start of rehearsals to the end, you need to be focused. Sure, you can have fun, but take care of your responsibilities first. APT: How did Jim handle Scrooge, one of Charles Dickens' most acclaimed roles? Jacob: Jim was so fantastic at his role, that I actually thought he was a crotchety, old man when the first few rehearsals got done with. It wasn't until Jim approached me to get to know me better, did I realize how wrong I was. He is one of the nicest and most sincere people I've had the pleasure of meeting. To take this kind-hearted person and make someone believe that he's the grumpy Scrooge is quite a feat! APT: How was the overall experience? Jacob: The show was about as much fun as a person can have. Working with Jim and Will Mobley, as well as all the incredibly talented children in the show, was more than I could have ever wished for. I learned so much from everyone in the show. It came to feel like a huge family by the end of the show. APT: Anything else you want audiences to know about working with Jim? Jacob: Like I've said, Jim is one of the most sincere people I've ever met. Jim went out of his way to get to know everyone in the show. He also has a couple of the cutest kids I've ever seen! They were always playing around the rehearsal area after we got done, but were quick to stop when asked to. It shows you just how good of a parent Jim is as well. He's quite the individual.