The Omaha Community Playhouse and the broader Omaha arts community are mourning the loss of esteemed actor Jerry Longe, who passed away recently. Longe was best known for his portrayal of Ebenezer Scrooge in the Playhouse’s annual production of “A Christmas Carol,” a role he embodied for 17 consecutive years until his retirement in 2022.
Longe’s journey with “A Christmas Carol” began in 1980 when he moved to Omaha and toured with the Nebraska Theatre Caravan, playing roles such as Marley, the Ghost of Christmas Present, and Jake. In 2006, he stepped into the iconic role of Scrooge at the Omaha Community Playhouse, becoming only the second actor to do so on its mainstage. His predecessor, the late Dick Boyd, had portrayed Scrooge for 30 years.
Over nearly two decades, Longe’s portrayal of Scrooge was lauded for its depth, authenticity, and evolving nuances. Each year, audiences experienced a fresh and compelling performance, reflecting Longe’s dedication to his craft. The Playhouse noted, “His portrayal was human, honest, moving, and funny. His performance was never the same year after year, which was incredible to witness.”
Beyond “A Christmas Carol,” Longe’s versatility shone in various productions at the Omaha Community Playhouse. His credits include roles in “Teddy and Alice” (1990), “The Mystery of Irma Vep” (1990), “The Foreigner” (1991), “Moon Over Buffalo” (1999), “The Mask of Moriarty” (2000), “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” (2000), and “Mack and Mabel” (2001). His contributions extended to other local theaters, such as the Blue Barn Theatre and The Rose Theatre, where he took on diverse roles that showcased his expansive talent.
Longe’s impact wasn’t confined to the stage. He was a cherished member of Omaha’s creative community, known for his humility, professionalism, and the genuine connections he fostered with colleagues and audiences alike. Reflecting on his time with “A Christmas Carol,” Longe once remarked, “I’ve made lifelong friends through this production, and that has been a tremendous gift to me every single Christmas.”
His decision to retire from the role of Scrooge in 2022 was influenced by a desire to spend more time with his family, especially with the anticipated arrival of his first granddaughter in the spring of 2023. He expressed that while stepping away was challenging, it felt like the right moment, stating, “A Christmas Carol isn’t about me. It’s about the show and what it means to the community…I felt it was time to go out on a high note.”
The Omaha Community Playhouse, established in 1924, has long been a cornerstone of the city’s cultural landscape. As the largest community playhouse in the nation, it has been a platform for local talent, including notable figures like Henry Fonda, who made his acting debut there in 1925. Longe’s enduring association with the Playhouse added a rich chapter to its storied history, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of performers.
In remembering Jerry Longe, the Omaha Community Playhouse stated, “He was one in a million, and the legacy he left us will live on in our hearts and souls, and on our stage.” His profound influence on Omaha’s theater community ensures that his spirit and contributions will be cherished for years to come.
