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Happy! Merry! Joyous!: Inside the Mind of a Caroler

Solo Theatre · Artepollo Productions · Ages 15+ · 50 mins · United States of America

Content Warning One Person Show World Premiere
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happy! merry! joyous!: inside the mind of a caroler

Review by JENNY GRAVES

June 10, 2026 certified reviewer

What I liked

The use of the props were extremely clever. I loved the history of the songs and how the lyrics can interchange with different melodies. I thought the projections worked well and helped with the theme and mood of each month, counting down to December.

I loved how Jim went through the anxiety of staring at his costume, putting off the inevitable ritual of trying it on this year, to make sure it still fits. I can relate to that one.

I loved the humor. It is a well-paced show that goes by quickly, is entertaining and informative.

What I didn't like

I honestly can’t think of anything that didn’t work. It was preview night, so Jim could have been a little nervous, but I think he nailed it overall.

It’s a great show and will put anyone in the holiday spirit, even in the middle of June!

My overall impression

This was a fabulous and relatable show. If you are a Christmas Caroler, you can relate to Jim’s stories of what it’s like to start having to think about Christmas all the way back in June every year. What what the process is from rehearsals that start before Halloween, to the very night you can finally relax on Christmas Eve as the last “We Wish You A Merry Christmas” is sung before you wearily make your way to the car.

If you’re not a Christmas Caroler, Jim paints a thorough picture of what we go through, to spread joy to the malls, parties and restaurants. It’s eye-opening for people who get to enjoy the type of December that caroler’s vaguely remember from the “before” times.

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happy! merry! joyous!: inside the mind of a caroler