All jokes aside, Dr. Seuss has been imparting wisdom since 1937 and his Grinch has been stealing Christmas since 1957. This year, however, The Grinch takes on a new life, giving way to the first African-American to take on the titular role. J. Bernard Calloway (Memphis, All The Way) joins the cast of The Grinch Who Stole Christmas! on the Donald and Darlene Shiley Stage at The Old Globe in San Diego, November 7 through December 26. 

San Diego welcomes Calloway back to their stages with open arms. He is known for portraying the stern and protective, yet loving big brother, “Delray Jones”, in the 2008 world premiere of Memphis at La Jolla Playhouse. Calloway continued this role, rock and rolling into the 2010 Tony Award-winning Broadway production, which ran until 2012. Spreading his gift between TV, film, and the stage, Calloway has also been seen in the 2014 Tony Award-winning production of All the Way, the Off Broadway production of The Good Negro (The Public Theatre), “Dreamgirls” (Fox Theatre), CBS’s “The Good Wife”, and his 2009 film debut in “The Taking of Pelham 123.”

For over 80 years, the Tony Award-winning Old Globe has been enriching lives through the Arts. Deservedly so, they are nationally recognized for their excellence in regional professional theatre. The Old Globe is the original producer of “Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas!” and has continued the tradition of producing it each year since its beginning in 2007. James Vásquez will direct this year’s production. The book and lyrics are by Timothy Mason and the music is written by Mel Marvin. 

Jim Carrey forever shaped my memories as the green goblin of Whoville’s Christmas in the 2000 life action film adaption of “Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch Who Stole Christmas!.” As funny as he looked prancing around the screen reminiscent of an oblong stuffed turkey, The Grinch drove a key message home for 8 year old Jerrica. When 21 Days of Christmas comes around each year,  The Grinch reminds us that Christmas is not about presents or food, but it’s about community. No matter what is subtracted from you on a day to day basis, you always have your friends and your family.

Let’s applaud J. Bernard Calloway, as he not only makes his debut at The Old Globe, but breaks history and molds a new holiday memory for many to come.

Noise! Feast! Sing! And get tickets HERE!

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