For a single evening, Baltimore’s mayor, Brandon Scott, will trade City Hall duties for a cameo role in the world‑premiere of CHARMZ: The Other Reindeer at Baltimore Center Stage. The production opens on Saturday, Nov. 21, and runs through Dec. 27, offering a festive, family‑friendly experience for residents.
Mayor’s participation highlights community spirit
Scott’s appearance is part of a broader effort by the theater to involve city leaders, business owners, and media personalities in the show. “Having so many incredible leaders, artists and community members join us onstage through these special cameos makes the production even more meaningful,” said Ken‑Matt Martin, director of CHARMZ and executive director of Baltimore Center Stage.
The musical tells the story of a young reindeer searching for his unique gift, despite lacking Rudolph’s famous red nose. Through song and dance, the show emphasizes that greatness can look different for each individual—a message that resonates with Baltimore’s diverse neighborhoods.
Other notable guest appearances
In addition to Mayor Scott, the production will feature a lineup of local figures:
- Kalen Allen, actor, comedian and internet personality (Nov. 27)
- Chrissy Thornton, Baltimore Center Stage Board President (Nov. 29)
- Janet Currie, president of Greater Maryland at Bank of America (Dec. 2)
- Mark Anthony Thomas, president and CEO of the Greater Baltimore Committee (Dec. 4)
- Kirby Fowler, president and CEO of The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore (Dec. 5)
- Becky Smith, president and CEO of APG Federal Credit Union (Dec. 6)
- Raymone Jackson, president of the T. Rowe Price Foundation (Dec. 9)
- Robyn Murphy, CEO of Create Baltimore (Dec. 10)
- Gospel musician Maurette Brown Clark (Dec. 13)
- Kate Burgin, executive director and CEO of The Walters Art Museum (Dec. 16)
- Carter Polakoff, president and CEO of Port Discovery Children’s Museum (Dec. 17)
- TV personality Carla Hall (Dec. 19)
More surprise guests are expected to be announced in the weeks leading up to each performance.
Community‑focused nights and ticket information
Baltimore Center Stage has scheduled a series of themed community nights, including Family First Night (Nov. 13), Baltimore Creatives Night (Nov. 14), Baltimore School for the Arts Day (Nov. 15), D9/HBCU Night (Nov. 18), Radio One Night (Nov. 19), Kaiser Permanente Community Night (Nov. 21) and BSA Alumni Night (Dec. 23). These events aim to bring together families, students, and local organizations for a shared cultural experience.
Tickets are available through the Baltimore Center Stage website, by calling the box office at 410‑332‑0033, or in person at the box office located at 700 North Calvert Street, Baltimore.
Why the mayor’s cameo matters
Mayor Scott’s involvement underscores the administration’s commitment to supporting the arts and fostering community engagement. By appearing onstage, the mayor demonstrates that civic leadership can be both approachable and supportive of local creativity—a message that aligns with the city’s broader goals of revitalization and cultural enrichment.
Scott is also a father; his three‑year‑old child, named “Charm,” inspired the mayor’s enthusiasm for the production. While the youngster is not yet a member of Actors Equity, the family connection adds a personal touch to the mayor’s participation.
Original reporting: Baltimore Fishbowl — read the source article.
