Institutional Titans

For decades, A Christmas Carol has been more than a show at the Omaha Community Playhouse, it has been a living tradition, shaped and supported by countless devoted artists and patrons. Among those pillars of support are Steve and Marion Priesman, whose dedication to the production has left an indelible mark on both the cast and the community.

Marion Priesman’s journey with A Christmas Carol began in 1984 as part of the Mainstage Ensemble. From there, she expanded her involvement, joining the East Coast Caravan Ensemble in 1985 and returning to the Mainstage in 1986. Over the next several years, Marion toured with the Midwest and West Coast Caravans, returning to the Mainstage in 1990 to take on roles such as Mrs. Dilber. For decades following, she brought to life characters including Myrtle Crow, Mrs. Dilber, Millie, and Nell, creating performances that audiences cherished. Marion fondly recalls the playful chaos of live theatre, like the Crow-Dilber scene when Julie Huff playfully sat on her back, forcing Marion to crawl across the stage to collect money, or a diagonal reach for coins that ended with a black eye, moments that capture the humor and camaraderie that make the show so special.

Steve Priesman’s connection to A Christmas Carol began in 1985 when he worked crew while his son Brian joined the Children’s Ensemble. A year later, Marion joined the adult ensemble, and in 1987 Steve began stage managing the Mainstage production while Marion, Brian, and daughter Jenny toured with the East Coast Caravan. Steve continued as stage manager through the 2010 production, overseeing countless performances and working closely with legendary actors like Dick Boyd and Jerry Longe in the role of Scrooge. He recalls unforgettable moments, such as the night former Nebraska football coach Tom Osborne honored Dick Boyd during curtain call, and the early crew duties of helping the legendary Mary Peckham enter and exit Scrooge’s bedchamber through a window.

Together, Steve and Marion Priesman, along with their family, cultivated a deep-rooted tradition of dedication, mentorship, and joy in A Christmas Carol. Their contributions extend beyond Marion’s memorable performances and Steve’s meticulous stage management. They helped create a spirit of community and holiday magic that continues to resonate with audiences and performers alike, passing the legacy of this beloved production to new generations.