FC Alumni Take the Stage For Inaugural Production by Kenny “Tack” Chumbley (’73)

FC Alumni Take the Stage for Inaugural Production by Kenny “Tack” Chumbley (’73)

January 20, 2026 |3-4 min read

From December 12 to 14, Florida College’s campus was transformed into a place of wonder as A Goblin’s Christmas took the stage in Puckett Auditorium. Written by Florida College alumnus Kenny “Tack” Chumbley (’73), the production created connections through storytelling, music, and a shared desire to support future FC students.

Chumbley, who currently preaches in Illinois, is not a playwright by trade. His journey into theater began unexpectedly in 2012, when he wrote a children’s story called Ol’ Pigtoes which sold hundreds of copies. A few years later, he wrote a second book, The Green Children, that earned the 2017 Enchanted Page Book Award from Literary Classics and was eventually adapted into a musical.

“I was a complete amateur,” Chumbley said. “I bought autobiographies of great theater makers from the 20th century and studied them. I just educated myself and that’s really how I got into my theater hobby.”

That curiosity led Chumbley to a new challenge: creating a musical retelling of one of Charles Dickens’ Christmas stories. Over time, his idea evolved into A Goblin’s Christmas. When alumnus Benjamin Payne (’99) offered to write the music, the project gained new momentum. Together, they agreed Florida College would be the ideal place for the show’s premiere.

With Molly Taylor (’09) as the director, the musical’s premiere was hosted by the Tampa Bay Alumni Chapter as its annual end-of-year fundraiser. While the chapter has traditionally presented radio-style programming, this year marked a shift to a full theatrical performance.

The cast itself became one of the production’s most meaningful elements. The show featured an entirely Florida College alumni ensemble, along with several of their children, creating a multigenerational expression of the FC community.

Chumbley noted how rewarding it was to watch the cast grow throughout the rehearsal process, especially as younger performers found confidence on stage alongside seasoned alumni.

“This really became an all-star cast,” Chumbley said. “They were experienced, committed and knew how to bring a show together.”

The impact of A Goblin’s Christmas extended well beyond its performances. All proceeds from the production were donated to support Florida College students through scholarships, ensuring the fundraiser directly benefited the next generation of Falcons.

For Bryce Cline (‘16), who played one of the lead roles, participating in this show carried personal significance.

“Returning to FC’s stage was incredible, especially knowing this was a place where I performed several years ago and made lasting memories and friendships,” Cline said. “To use our time and talents in a way that supports students who will one day call FC home made the experience even more meaningful.”

What began as a creative pursuit for Chumbley ultimately became a shared effort rooted in generosity and connection.

Click here to watch A Goblin’s Christmas and experience this labor of love created by Florida College alumni.