When I was in Chicago, I was privileged to be on the board of the Goodman Theatre. The Goodman did some truly wonderful work, which included their production of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” the timeless story of redemption. I can fondly remember my older son Chris getting a “walk on” role. It didn’t exactly launch him on a career in the theater, but it sure was fun to watch.
Here in Milwaukee, The Milwaukee Repertory Theater’s production of “A Christmas Carol” is one of the city’s great holiday traditions. The Rep stages it, but the play is performed in the venerable Pabst Theater, which is right next door.
This year, Rep Managing Director Tim Shields gave the marketing committee, me and of course, everyone at Blue Horse, the assignment of rejuvenating the advertising. In the past, Scrooge and his ghosts are usually the focus of the ads. Tim and Marketing Director David Anderson wanted to bring the joy of the music, dance and holiday festivities back into the message. They pointed out that this is a family event and that while there may be a scary ghost here and there, it’s really about wonderment and merriment. Oh, and James Pickering was back in the lead.
Blue Horse Senior Art Director Lynn Schoenecker took on the assignment of delivering a whole new look. She selected illustrator Laura Williams in North Carolina and together they designed the poster and set the style for all to follow. Photography was done by Allan Knox and prepress by Pro Graphics.
Meanwhile, for the television work, David put us in touch with a wonderful production house in L.A. by the name of Cinevative that specializes in theater advertising. Mark Ciglar came to Milwaukee for the photo shoot and using these visuals plus music from the production, made the story really come to life.
It’s very satisfying for us to be able to take an “old” product in a new direction. And the entire process of working with the folks at the Rep was a terrific experience. The staff and board members, like Wendy Blumenthal, stepped up with their perspective, their comments and new ideas for the whole marketing effort. So did the Blue Horse folks including account supervisor Laura Rodriguez who managed the process in her usual efficient manner.
You can see the poster and :30 spot among the work on the Blue Horse Web site. We’d love to hear any comments you might have.
You can also order tickets online at milwaukeerep.com or by calling 414-224-9490.
Sponsored again this year by the good folks at Miller Brewing, “A Christmas Carol” is something everyone should make a part of their own holiday family activities.
The joyous tradition lives on!
Posted by Bob Welke 
Bob's Big Blue Blog 