Quote of the Day: It’s time to get out of bed and be the starchild I can be. Lyrics from “Starchild” from Dave Malloy’s Ghost Quartet, on stage for the seventh time at Theatre Elision. We love it. This year is the Reunion concert, which means that usually they have about four singers, but this year, they invited back performers from the previous six years to join in the chorus, and it’s wonderful. 

The stage is set for the Reunion Concert of Ghost Quartet, elements of Grandma’s attic and the mysticism of the woods, plus props from Ghost Quartets of the past scattered throughout. Photo curtesy of Theatre Elision

The majority of the people in the audience on Friday night have attended Ghost Quartet numerous times. When I brought my college student friend Kyara two years ago, she immediately bought tickets and saw it again with her friend Bridger. We made a point of attending last year. This year, we used it as a way to have a last Hurrah before they head back to college. The entire performance filled me with joy and gave me goosebumps – for the haunting melodies and gorgeous harmonies, the wonderful atmospheric vibe, and the time with my “bonus” kids. 

Christine Wade in Ghost Quartet at Theatre Elision, 2025.
Photo: Jolie Morehouse Olson

With 12 performers, they made good use of everyone’s talent. Everyone plays an instrument. Music Director Harrison Wade is once again the main man on keys, with Kellen McMillen adding keys as well as other instruments. Christine Wade is the Vocal Director who sings and plays instruments. One of our favorite moments in the performance is when she accompanies herself on the piano for “Hero.” Abilene Olson shines with her gorgeous soprano and characterizations. They all become characters as they bring this circular story to life. We especially enjoy Maureen O’Malley as the Bear. The rest of the performers are Ani Tonoyan, Hawken Paul, Anna Beth Baker, Quinn Shadko, Emily Hensley, Billy Medina-Gleason, and Jeff Miller.

Abilene Olson in Ghost Quartet at Theatre Elision, 2025. Photo: Jolie Morehouse Olson

The first time you hear this piece or attend a performance, you might not catch onto everything. It is a weaving of several stories, told out of order with a tangled thread. Listen for characters and storylines that pop up, or sit back and simply enjoy the wonderful musicianship. They will hand out instruments during a few songs, and whiskey during “Four Friends” (you need to show ID when you enter and get a wristband if you wish to imbibe).

Chorus of singers in Ghost Quartet at Theatre Elision, 2025.
Photo: Jolie Morehouse Olson

Theatre Elision is doing Ghost Quartet a couple months early this year, and one weekend only, because they are doing the regional premiere of Dave Malloy’s Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812 October 30 – November 22, 2025. I am SO EXCITED for this one. I’m already on their media list for opening weekend. I had tickets to see this show on Broadway, but sadly, it closed before I got to see it. Now, I finally get to see it with a local cast at a favorite theater!!!

You have one more chance to see Ghost Quartet this year, then get your tickets for The Great Comet! (I hear they’re selling fast.) Visit Theatre Elision website for more details.

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: What are some of your favorite things about the fall season?

Starchild – Ghost Quartet 2025. Let the music wash over you.
Photo: Jolie Morehouse Olson