PORTSMOUTH – Ready to get into the holiday spirit? Come to a production of “Ye Merry Gentlemen,” written by G. Matthew Gaskell and directed by Sam Smith, opening on Nov. 14 and running through Nov. 30.

This heartwarming new play is a joyful reminder that believing can bring a little magic into our lives – especially during the holidays. A decade after its first production, “Ye Merry Gentlemen” returns to the Ring with some of the original script and original cast – now ten years older, and maybe a little wiser. Get ready to laugh, feel, and leave with your heart full.  

It’s Christmas Eve, and this family is on a mission: to finally convince 50-year-old George (played by Christopher Savage) that Santa Claus isn’t real. But George isn’t backing down – he has a few surprises of his own that might just change everything. 

Gaskell recalls the play was first produced in November of 2016.
 
“Originally it was our generation – the young adults who dealt with most of the conflict,” he said. “This updated version has us all in our 50's interacting with our adult children. It’s a fuller piece with multiple generations involved.” 
 
Gaskell describes the family as “all of us.”
 
“I tried to make the script as ‘everybody’ as I possibly could and the cast is playing each character as ‘a real person having a real day’,” he said.

Gaskell added that his “salad days” at the Ring were from 2006 to 2017.
 
“I gained a lot of experience, met many glorious artists (including several of my current castmates) and was able to really find my voice as a playwright,” he said. “The six ‘core’ characters (the adults) have been with me from the beginning. And they will stay with me until I'm dead.”  

Gaskell’s favorite genre? 
 
“I love writing comedy. It's been my passion since I was very, very young,” he said. “I don't really know why, other than the math and science of comedy makes sense to me. Figuring out the perfect gag and watching it executed flawlessly on stage is one of my great joys in life.” 

Gaskell hopes the audience will appreciate what he calls “a pretty good script, performed by an outstanding crew – and maybe a few holiday ‘feels’.”
 
Director Sam Smith said she’s been fortunate enough to work with Gaskell on a couple of his shows in various capacities. 
 
“Before we ever worked together, I saw ‘Ye Merry Gentlemen’ when it was at the Ring about 10 years ago,” she said. “I loved it then, so when he mentioned that he was getting people together for a reading and would I like to come and maybe take part, I said yes. And here we are!”
 
Smith said the rehearsals have been great.
 
“It’s a real treat when you have a room full of people that aren’t afraid to play and try things out. Everyone is bringing something to the table,” she said. 
 
“We have a great group made up of some actors that were in the show 10 years ago, and some new ensemble members. It’s the best of both worlds where we have characters some people may remember from the previous version, but we also have new faces and new life joining this nutty family.” 
 
Smith said she wants the audience to enjoy the show and get in the spirit leading up to the holidays this year. 
 
“I also want the cast and crew to have a fun time playing with these characters and bringing them to life,” she added. “Everyone has their holiday traditions and family dynamics to navigate this time of year, and it can be cathartic watching someone else’s crazy instead of their own.” 
 
In addition to Christopher Savage, the cast includes Emily Andrews, Robbie Armstrong, Jamie Bradley, Aaron Compagna, G. Matthew Gaskell, Heather Howe, Ella Luke, Alex Picard and Whitney Smith.
 
The rest of the creative team includes Ben Bagley on set, lighting and sound design; Jeanné McCartin on costume design; Meredith Compagna as production stage manager and Sidge Mueller as assistant stage manager and props manager.

Curious about the process? The first Sunday matinee show (Nov. 16) will be followed by an optional talkback with the playwright, director and cast.

In this holiday comedy, all characters but one question the existence of Santa Claus. Though the play ends in a spirit of wonder, the Ring recommends caution for families with young believers.

The Ring’s neighbor, The Puddle Dock restaurant, and its sister restaurant “Tour” on Lafayette Road, are both offering a 10% discount on food to Players’ Ring patrons. Visit their websites to reserve, and present your ticket when you ask for your check.
 
The Players’ Ring is grateful for the support of its sponsors. Patrons of the Arts: The Eppes-Jefferson Foundation, Tour Restaurant, The Puddle Dock Restaurant, RAKA Creative. Supporters: Business Cents, City of Portsmouth Recreation Department, Dowling HVAC, Port City Makerspace. Media Partners: Portsmouthnh.com and Chamber Collaborative of Greater Portsmouth. 
 
 
Go & Do
“Ye Merry Gentlemen,” Written by G. Matthew Gaskell and Directed by Sam Smith
Where: The Players’ Ring Theatre, 105 Marcy Street, Portsmouth NH
               Phone: 603-436-8123
When: Nov. 14 – Nov. 30. Thursdays at 7 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m.; Saturdays and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. (No performance on Thanksgiving, Nov. 27 and Sunday, Nov. 30, performance times are 11:30 a.m. and 4 p.m.)
Cost: General Admission: $32; Seniors (65+)/Students/Veterans/First Responders: $29
This play is included in the Ring’s subscription packages. Visit www.playersring.org for more information and to purchase tickets.