Charleston Christmas Special

    Celebrating 31 years of holiday entertainment in Charleston.

    Performers

    Producers Brad and Jennifer Moranz gather some of the country’s most talented performers for an entirely new show featuring holiday favorites.

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    Brad Moranz, Producer

    Brad has appeared on Broadway in the role of Cosmo in "Singin’ in the Rain," and he later re-created the role for the national touring production. Other Broadway credits include "A Day in Hollywood, A Night in the Ukraine," and the original off-Broadway production of "Little Shop of Horrors," playing the role of Seymour. His film and TV credits include "Radioland Murders," "Stompin’ at the Savoy," and guest appearances on “Matlock” and “Surface.”   

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    Jennifer Moranz, Producer

    Jennifer danced in the original Broadway production of "42nd Street." Prior to that she was high kicking as one of the Radio City Music Hall Rockettes. She was a featured dancer in the national tour of "Singin’ in the Rain," and she has appeared in regional productions of "Guys and Dolls" and "A Chorus Line," as well as the TV movie, "Stompin’ at the Savoy." Choreographic credits include films "Radioland Murders" and "The Road to Wellville.'

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    Tiffany Parker, Singer

    Tiffany has been a featured singer on international cruise ships who now lives in Charleston and can be seen regularly in Moranz Entertainment productions. She started singing at age 10 with The Charleston Youth Company. Even when relegated to the garage with a broomstick for a microphone, she knew performing would be her passion.

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    Michael Minor, Singer

    Michael resides in Summerville, South Carolina, but his journey as an entertainer takes him around the world. An alumnus of Luther College, Michael was part of the world-renowned Nordic Choir under the direction of the legendary Weston Noble. Michael's post-college career continued on stages nationwide, including the shows Caesar's Magical Empire, Las Vegas, Dolly Parton's Stampede Show and The Shoji Tabuchi Show in Branson, Missouri. Michael has had the privilege of working with Brad and Jennifer for over 25 years and credits the addition of ventriloquism to his repertoire to Brad who wrote a sketch into a show for him 22 years ago. Michael headlines his "One man Variety Show" on several luxury cruise lines, but is always grateful to perform at home in Charleston. Connect with Michael on Instagram @michael.minor.entertainment or michaelminor.com.

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    Matt Shingledecker, Singer

    Growing up in Charleston, Matt performed at Porter-Gaud, Charleston Youth Co., South of Broadway Theater Co., Footlight Players, Spoleto, and Charleston Stage Company. While studying music theater at Elon University, Shingledecker played the role of Phantom in “The Phantom of the Opera” before joining the Broadway and First National Touring Company of “Spring Awakening” as Georg. He also performed on Broadway as Fiyero in “Wicked” and as Tony in “West Side Story.” He is currently performing as Disney’s Broadway Guest Artist playing both King Triton (“The Little Mermaid”) and Jafar (“Aladdin”). 

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    Kindred Moore, Singer

    Kindred made her professional debut at 13 years old with Moranz Entertainment and is thrilled to be back performing with Brad and Jen. A native of Charleston, Kindred recently moved to NYC after earning her BFA in Musical Theatre at Boston Conservatory at Berklee. Some of her favorite credits include As You Like It (Rosalind), The Robber Bridegroom (Rosamund), and Into The Woods (Cinderella’s Mother). Most recently she originated the role of Sam in Pleasure Never Lies at PURE Theatre with music and lyrics by Brad Moranz and Marshall Hagins. Kindred gives a special thank you to her family, Charleston community, and Brad and Jen for their constant love and support. “All glory to God!” Rep: Clear Talent Group. Connect with Kindred @kindred_moore or via kindredmoore.com

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    Sophia Anna O'Brien, Singer

    Sophia Anna O’Brien is thrilled to be returning to the Charleston Music Hall for the third time. Sophia hails from Hopewell Junction, New York. Past credits include the World Premiere of The Snow Goose at Goodspeed Opera House (Ensemble/Frith U/S), The Hello Girls at Syracuse Stage (Louise LeBreton) and Les Misérables (Eponine), for which she was a 2022 Roger Rees Winner and Jimmy Nominee. Sophia sends her utmost gratitude to her ever-supporting family, Dylan, Joe, Nani, and to the greatest parents in the world for the opportunity of sharing her love for music. Connect with Sophia on Instagram @sophia_anna25 or at sophiaannaobrien.com.

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    Corinthian Doctor, Singer

    Born into a family of singers and musicians, Corinthian Doctor’s musical journey seemed inevitable as she began singing at the age of 4. Her passion quickly led to her development in background vocal recording, vocal arranging, and producing. She draws inspiration from her upbringing in church, gospel artists like Kayla Parker and Cece Winans, and jazz legends like Sara Vaughn, to define her unique sound. Corinthian has been fortunate enough to share the stage with artists like Darius Rucker, Jason Nelson, and Ranky Tanky, among others. She has also arranged and recorded vocals for artists like Hootie and the Blowfish, Etienne Charles, Quentin Baxter, as well as HBO’s “The Righteous Gemstones.” Corinthian is a proud wife and mother, and enjoys spending time with her husband, Demetrius, their daughter Alani, and their twin boys, Weston and Dawson.

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    Winston Daniels, Singer

    Back from Dallas/Fort Worth, Winston Daniels is once again ecstatic to be here with Moranz Entertainment this holiday season! Previous credits include, Bobby - The Color Purple, Teen Angel/Johnny Casino - Grease, Drifter - The Carole King Musical, Victor - Smokey Joe's Cafe, Sebastion - The Little Mermaid. This holiday season, he would like to once again thank his family, and friends for their endless support, guidance and motivation "What a wild last two years we've had, y'all!” If you would like to keep up with him, make sure to follow his journey at @officiallydubd on Instagram. 

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    Demetrius Doctor, Musical Director

    Hailing from North Charleston, South Carolina, Demetrius' musical journey began at age 5 as a self-taught pianist in church. The Gullah-Geechee influence of the Black church in the Lowcountry is the foundation on which all his musicality is built. Demetrius attended The Charleston County School of Arts, where he received numerous musical awards
    and recognitions for his work in piano and tuba. He went on to receive his B.A. in Music from the College of Charleston and later received his M.A. in Music Technology from Coastal Carolina University. His musical journey has blessed him to work with gospel
    artists like Tye Tribbett, Jonathan Nelson, and Duranice Pace, as well as jazz musicians like Fred Wesley and Freddy Cole. He’s also toured Italy, Spain, Croatia, and many cities in the United States. Demetrius was a previous assistant professor of music technology at South Carolina State University. Currently, he serves as minister of music at Royal Missionary Baptist Church in North Charleston and director of the Charleston Jazz Academy. He can be found playing in multiple venues and settings in and
    throughout the Charleston area. Outside of music, Demetrius enjoys watching sports and spending time with his wife, Corinthian, their daughter, Alani, and twin boys, Weston and Dawson.

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    Jordan Maria, Dancer

    A native of Charleston, in 2012 Jordan launched her dancing career at 14 years old with Moranz Entertainment. Jordan attended the Charleston County School of the Arts and is a graduate of the College of Charleston, double majoring in Dance and Theatre. Jordan is a company member of Annex Dance Company. She performed with Pauletta Washington and The Charleston Pops. Jordan’s work has engaged a form of video artistry that is a collaboration of storytelling and dance. Projects have included working with award-winning artists Marcus Amaker and Ranky Tanky, Wade Davis (CNN), Gino Castillo (Cha Cha Charleston). Jordan has also created visual works such as Glory Comes, Selah, and an Apple marketing campaign. Her choreography has been featured in such musicals as "Daniel and the Kings," "Joseph and the Technicolor Dream Coat," and “Pleasure Never Lies.”

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    Addison “Addie” Collins, Dancer

    Addie has trained at United We Dance in Summerville since she was just 2 years old. She began her journey as a competitive dancer at the age of 5, earning numerous scholarships and accolades for her exceptional skills. Since 2018, Addie has showcased her talent with Moranz Entertainment, where her performances have brought joy to many.In addition to her passion for dance, Addie loves to sing and act. With dreams of attending a musical theater college, she aspires to combine her love for the stage with a future career as an esthetician, all while traveling the globe to share her talents with the world.

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    Parker Whaley, Dancer 

    Parker is 10 years old and in her second year performing in the Charleston Christmas Special alongside her older sisters, Peyton and Kinley Paige. She trains and competes with United We Dance in Summerville and has a true love for the stage and entertaining. Her favorite style of dance is jazz, where she can really let her high energy and sassiness shine. Parker has watched the Christmas Special since she was a toddler, so having the opportunity to dance in it now is a dream come true!

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    KP Whaley, Dancer

    Kinley Paige (KP) is a freshman in high school and in her second year dancing for The Charleston Christmas Special. She trains and competes with United We Dance in Summerville. She’s known for her technique and grace and has earned several top placement awards for her lyrical solos. When she’s not dancing—which isn’t often—she loves spending time on the boat and listening to Morgan Wallen.

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    Zoe “Zo-Zo” Simmons, Dancer

    Zoe is a native of Summerville, South Carolina, and began her dance journey at just 3 years old at United We Dance (UWD). As a dedicated member of the UWD competition team, Zoe has earned numerous dance scholarships and awards throughout her journey. Beyond her love for dance, Zoe also enjoys singing and expressing her creativity through the performing arts. She is thrilled to share her talents during this holiday season and is grateful for the opportunity to be part of this special performance. Looking ahead, Zoe plans to continue pursuing her passion for dance in college while working toward her dream of becoming a plastic surgeon. She resides in Summerville with her parents and big sister, who continue to support and encourage her dreams.

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    Zoe Jarvis, Dancer

    Originally from South Carolina, Zoe has been dancing since the age of 6. Throughout her years of training, she has competed in numerous dance competitions across the East Coast, earning overall placements, scholarships, and specialty awards. Outside of dance, Zoe is pursuing a degree in hospitality management. This marks her fourth year performing in the Charleston Christmas Special, and she feels incredibly blessed and grateful to be part of such a special production. 

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    Virginia Weis, Dancer

    Virginia is overjoyed to return to the dance cast of The Charleston Christmas Special for a second year this holiday. She trains as a part of the preprofessional programs at Dance Conservatory of Charleston and CCJ Conservatory. Virginia is a competition dancer and is grateful to have won many titles, regional and national overall placements and scholarships. Her musical theatre main-stage debut was as a Poppy Soloist and Ensemble in the five-week run of Charleston Stage’s The Wizard of Oz. Her acting credits include lead and supporting roles in the film and commercial industries. She is most happy when performing and bringing a story to life on stage through her passions of dancing, acting, and singing. Virginia wants to thank Brad and Jenny Moranz, her teachers and mentors, friends and family for all of their love and support of her dreams. 

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    Rebecca Patsalos, Dancer

    Rebecca Patsalos has been dancing for over 20 years, beginning her training in New York, where she studied ballet, jazz, tap, modern, and hip-hop. Her passion for dance led her to the University of Georgia, where she earned a BFA in Dance along with her teaching certification. While at UGA, Becca was a member of the UGA Ballet Ensemble as well as CORE Contemporary & Aerial Dance Company. Her dance education has taken her beyond the United States, including opportunities to study dance in Costa Rica and London. She has also taught a variety of styles to students aged 3-18 at dance studios in Atlanta, Georgia. She has continued performing and creating throughout her professional career. Becca was a member of Charleston Dance Project for six years and Dynamics Hip Hop Company for three years, performing with both companies at theaters and events throughout Charleston. She is currently a member of Kab&Co. Dance Company. For the past six years, Becca has shared her love of dance with young students as the dance teacher at Angel Oak Primary School. In addition to teaching, she choreographs for school musicals and has served as a guest choreographer for St. Pius X High School in Atlanta. Becca is excited to be dancing in the Charleston Christmas Special for the first time and looks forward to sharing the joy of dance with audiences this holiday season!

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    Jay Miley, Guitar

    Jay Miley was born and raised in the South Carolina Lowcountry. He got his first guitar at the age of 14 and his life immediately changed direction. He has been a professional musician for over 40 years now, performing regularly up and down the East Coast. “The Jay Miley Band” opened for major acts like Mick Fleetwood, Atlanta Rhythm Section, Pat Travers Band and Molly Hatchet. They were also featured in the movie and soundtrack of “Major League 3, Back to the Minors” in 1998. Jay has also been the guitarist for Brad and Jennifer Moranz shows at the Charleston Music Hall since 2005. His studio and sound engineer resume is also extensive, working on over 350 full-length recording projects and thousands of demos. He has beenbehind the board for politicians like Joe Biden and Dick Cheney, actors Donald Southerland and Tom Berenger, and Pastors Rick Warren and Greg Surratt to name a few. In 2023 he had the honor of being inducted to the Lowcountry Music Hall of Fame. When he is not in the recording studio, you can catch him on the Spirit Dinner Cruise or at North Charleston United Methodist Church on Sundays leading their contemporary service – The Current.

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    James Anderson, Violin

    James has been hailed by critics as a violinist "who bucks tradition," a "world-class violinist, improviser, and composer," and "the most swinging violinist in Colorado." A Fort Collins, Colorado, native and violinist since age 5, James is at home in a number of musical arenas - including classical, jazz, tango, bluegrass/old time. At the University of Northern Colorado, James became an active performer on the Colorado Front Range - performing more that 100 concerts of all types every year. After graduating with honors, James was accepted to the prestigious Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London, England for graduate studies. While in England, James became a regular on the vibrant London jazz scene. He has been featured in concert halls around the globe, including London's Wigmore and Barbican Halls, and the Sala Mozart in Zaragosa, Spain. James has performed with some of world's greatest fiddlers and has recorded for both film and television including the soundtrack to the major motion picture "Bernie" starring Jack Black, FX's "Archer," and NBC's "Smash"; and has been a soloist and chamber musician featured with orchestras and chamber music festivals around the country. After many years on the music scenes in Austin, Texas, and Charleston, South Carolina, James is currently based in Las Vegas and is an in demand violinist and teacher on the vibrant music scene.

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    Gavin Smith, Trombone

    Singing in church here in the Lowcountry is how Gavin Smith’s musical journey began. Heavily inspired by the likes of Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald, he began playing the cornet/trumpet at the age of 9. He attended the Charleston County School of the Arts, eventually switching to trombone in high school. He would leave Charleston for Boston to attend Berklee College of Music. Gavin has performed and recorded with Darius Rucker/Hootie & the Blowfish, Tia Fuller, Wycliffe Gordon, Delfeayo and Branford Marsalis, along with several other international and local artists. Gavin has been performing consistently as part of the horn section in the Moranz Entertainment shows since 2018. He serves as a full-time member of the Charleston Jazz Orchestra and nine-piece band Gullah Collective. He is also an instructor at the Charleston Jazz Academy.

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    Ron Wiltrout, Drums

    Ron is a Grammy-nominated drummer and percussionist based in Charleston, South Carolina. A professional musician since 2002 he performs regularly in the Southeast with ensembles whose styles range from jazz and salsa to free improvisation to avant-garde and contemporary classical music. He has performed at The Jazz Corner, The Mezz, Charleston Music Hall, The Gaillard Center, The Kennedy Center Millenium Stage, The Stone in NYC, Alice Tully Hall, Le Poisson Rouge, BAM Harvey, National Sawdust, The Walker Art Center in Minneapolis, Constellation in Chicago, Taube Atrium Theater in San Francisco, and Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles. As an improvising musician he has recorded with Robert Lewis and Gerald Gregory (First Takes 2010), Lee Barbour (Nonfiction 2012, and Influencers, Vol.1 2022), Jeremy Wolf (Understanding 2014, and The Wheel 2020), The Opposite of a Train (The Opposite of a Train 2009), and Shimmy Ghøster (Prelunch 2018). As a composer, Wiltrout has written and performed over 50 pieces of music ranging from jazz to chamber ensemble. Wiltrout is devoted to exploring the use of unconventional percussion and extended techniques and integrating the drum set into any musical scenario. He co-leads multiple jazz/improvized music groups and is the leader and originator of the band Rad Western.

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    Jon Phillips, Saxophones and Woodwinds

    A graduate of SIU Carbondale, Jon has been performing in the Charleston area for 30 years. Jon has played the Savannah Jazz Festival, the Charlotte Jazz Festival, the Charleston Jazz Festival and taught as an adjunct at the College of Charleston. Currently, Jon performs frequently around the area, including standing commitments with the Charleston Jazz Orchestra, Forte Jazz Lounge and Brad and Jennifer Moranz Productions.