James Taylor joins 'Christmas Carol' cast

PITTSFIELD, Mass., Nov. 13 (UPI) -- Singer James Taylor will play Bob Cratchit in a New England theater company's annual production of "A Christmas Carol," the producers announced.

Taylor will make his stage debut with his hometown Berkshire Theater Group in Massachusetts playing the put-upon clerk opposite Mr. Scrooge.

Despite the 63-year-old Taylor's lack of experience and his age difference with family-man Cratchit, company leaders say they made the right choice.

"I think he's perfect for the role," co-director Eric Hill told the Berkshire Eagle. "Cratchit is a natural, self-effacing character, humble, very unassuming and gentle, trying to find the right path through difficult challenges. James seems to have a natural instinct for such situations."

Taylor will have plenty of family support when he hits the stage. His wife, Kim, has been cast as Mrs. Cratchit and 10-year-old sons Rufus and Henry will have supporting roles as well.

The 11 performances begin Dec. 17 at the 738-seat Colonial Theater in Pittsfield.