Looking for something new and exciting to see this holiday season? Then look no further than the World Premiere of Chris, Mrs. – A New Holiday Musical. With new songs and a Hallmark Movie style plot, Chris, Mrs. is sure to become a Christmas Classic. I was lucky enough to send some questions to star Liam Tobin about his love for musical theatre, what it’s like to work on a brand new show, and his favourite part of the holidays!

Liam Tobin

1. Could you please introduce yourself to my readers and tell us a bit about your role in Chris, Mrs.?

Hi, my name is Liam Tobin! I’m a Canadian actor playing Ben Chris, a widowed father of three who has since focused solely on being a provider for his family. When Holly Carmichael holds up the proverbial mirror to his behaviour, he realises he’s been missing out on the love from his family, Christmas spirit, and finding happiness with someone new.  

2. What first attracted you to musical theatre?

I was a hardcore sports kid growing up, but a few of my friends were in a community theatre production while I was in high school and wouldn’t stop talking about how fun it was etc. So, I decided to audition for the next show they were doing – Beauty and the Beast. Once rehearsals started, I immediately knew I had found my “people”. I had never had so much fun in my life. I realised this is where I belonged and that if there was a possibility of making a living at this, I just had to try.

Liam Tobin and Danielle Wade

3. I was looking at your bio and you’ve been in the same style of movies this play is based on, what’s it like getting to act out one of these stories live?

Haha yes, I’ve been in a couple Christmas movies that are closely related to the Chris, Mrs. story and genre. What’s great about theatre, and what you don’t get on a film or TV show, is the instant feedback from the audience. Especially now that we’re on stage – getting laughs and gasps and applause and feeling the audience being invested and caring about the story – it feels like the audience is a part of the show as well. That’s when you feel the “theatre magic.”

L to R: Addison Wagman, Danielle Wade, Liam Tobin, and Lucien Duncan-Reid

4. What’s your favourite part of working on a World Premiere musical?

Sharing something new with the Toronto audience is really exciting. There aren’t a whole lot of Christmas musicals out there and I think it’s time for a new story like this one. Of course it’s a different process as there are lots of changes throughout – but that’s the beauty of getting to create.

5. What is your favourite holiday tradition?

I have a verrry large extended family back in Newfoundland, so our Christmas dinners would regularly have around 30-40 people. The “kids” table was where the fun was, and the kids table has stayed a staple even though we’re all in our thirties and beyond. It’s so great to have everyone together.

I want to thank Liam for taking the time out of his massively busy schedule to answer my questions. I am so excited to see this beautiful show come to life! Make sure you get your tickets for Chris, Mrs. – A New Holiday Musical at https://www.chrismrs.com

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