Quentin Talley was not eager to make another Christmas show. He had grown up performing in holiday productions, and the season had become his least favorite time in the theater. When OnQ’s board and staff began discussing a show to raise money and awareness, he needed convincing.
“I was definitely the Scrooge of the bunch,” he told Queen City Backstage by email.
He eventually turned to Tim Scott Jr., who has been Soulful Noel’s musical director from the beginning. They agreed that the production should reflect OnQ’s mission and the ways Black families and communities celebrate the holidays.
The first version had an original script and new arrangements of Christmas songs. Talley estimates it was roughly 70 percent script and 30 percent music. Five years of revision and audience feedback reversed the balance. By the time the show was about 40 percent script and 60 percent song, the team decided to abandon the script altogether.
Soulful Noel became a musical revue, with more room for Charlotte’s musicians and vocalists. Now in its 14th year, it returns to Booth Playhouse December 22–23, 2026, for three performances.
Building the music together
Choosing the songs remains collaborative. Performers suggest material; Talley and Scott recommend pieces that suit their voices. Familiar Christmas songs and selections from Black holiday traditions fill the first act. After intermission, inspirational and spiritual music turns the focus toward the birth of Christ.
The production keeps changing. Talley says there are more singers interested than the show can accommodate, and duets and trios have become a larger part of the approach. The 2026 plans emphasize musicians who both play and sing. Strings were also being considered, though not confirmed at the time of the interview.
Talley knows the holidays can be difficult. He wants Soulful Noel to offer familiar faces, company and music for people who may need them. The music draws on soul, funk, R&B, jazz and gospel.
“We want audiences to leave full of joy and inspiration,” he said.
The companion album, OnQ Presents A Soulful Noel, is available on major streaming and download platforms.
December performances at Booth Playhouse
Booth Playhouse sits in Founders Hall, within the Blumenthal Arts Center complex that opened in November 1992. The room has orchestra and gallery seating.
December 22, 2026: 7 p.m.
December 23, 2026: 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.
See Blumenthal Arts for official tickets and performance details.
Interview conducted by email.
