Original subtitles

♪

♪ He rules the world ♪

♪ With truth and grace ♪

♪ And makes the nations prove... ♪

♪ The glory of ♪

♪ His righteousness ♪

♪ And wonders of his love ♪

♪ And wonders of his love... ♪

♪ And wonders ♪

♪ Wonders of ♪

♪ His love... ♪

(audience cheering)

- (cheering) - Thank you.

(audience applauding)

What is this?

Dad, the show is providing housing and food.

Ehh. It's a little something extra.

Dad, we don't have a little something extra.

I took an advance from the store

and everyone around here chipped in, too.

Look, it's Christmas. You've never missed a holiday at home.

Take yourself out to a nice dinner.

I hate that you're going to be all alone at Christmas.

(chuckling) Look around.

You think these people are going to let me be alone?

Yeah. I guess I'm the one

that's going to be all alone at Christmas.

You're going to live your dreams, Vi.

I mean, my daughter is going to Broadway!

(cheering)

Okay, okay. Dad, don't overshoot it, okay?

They're rehearsing in New York,

and then the tour leaves in January.

Well, they picked you, that's all that matters to me.

And if you need a friend in the city,

you go see Aunt Carol's old friend, Hazel.

I'm sure Hazel Carter has more important things to do

than deal with the likes of me.

I called her.

She promised to look out for you.

Thank you.

(Upbeat jazz music playing)

♪ Joy to the world ♪

♪ The Lord is come ♪

♪ Let earth receive ♪

♪ Her King ♪

♪ Let every heart ♪

♪ Prepare him room ♪

♪ And heaven and nature sing ♪

♪ And heaven and heaven and nature sing! ♪

♪ And heaven, and heaven ♪

♪ And nature ♪

♪ Sing... ♪

(audience applauding)

Thank you very much. Thank you. Thanks.

Chef: Hey, Alex, order up!

Gotta go.

(audience applauding)

I'm not paying you to flirt with these pretty ladies, Charley.

Now, pick up that burger before the ball drops in Times Square.

Oh, yeah, and can I have a couple glasses of water

for table three? Yeah.

Oh, yeah. Cash only, sir. Plastic ruins the vibe.

Yeah? You catch me? Glad we had this talk.

Man: Hey, hey, hey! What do you think you're doing?

Pretend we're all a family, okay?

Hello, Brad. You still owe me.

And I'm not adding to your tab anymore.

Come on, Hazel. Hazel...

you know I'm good for it.

I don't know what you're good for.

How much time do you have?

Alex, do not give your cousin any food,

unless it's about to go straight into the trash can.

Come on.

Well, uh...

She needs to relax.

You need to pay that tab.

She's going to take it out on me,

and I'm not going to get a song for Christmas Eve.

Well, what do you need to sing for anyways?

You're a playwright.

It's hard to get any writing done when my work desk

is doubling as your underwear drawer.

That's why I keep telling you, you need a bigger apartment.

Look, Marty Levin comes Christmas Eve, scouting talent,

and I need a good slot in that show, so pay her.

Money is a minor detail. It flows naturally

when you start to focus on your greater purpose.

Enough of the podcast.

Oh, you mean the number one podcast in the world,

Man or Mouse? It's really helping me.

Helping you realize you're not a mouse?

Look, I'm starting to focus on maximizing my potential.

A very commendable, very vague goal.

Good for you.

Right.

And since I... I've been listening,

I already have a big interview.

Pretty soon, I'll get myself a nice apartment

with a doorman, like me and Chanel had signed up for.

That'll show her.

Honestly, Brad, you dodged a bullet with her, man.

Would have been nice to get that security deposit back though.

Yeah.

Look, I promise, I'll pay Hazel once I get this job.

Good.

Wait.

And who needs Chanel and her constant disapproval anyways?

I'm doing things with my life.

That's great. Love where you're going with this.

Thanks, man.

Oh. Can I have one of those? Don't love it that much.

How you doing?

Dream on.

How you doing?

Good.

Violette: Hey, Dad. I'm here safe and sound.

I'm just, um, heading into rehearsal.

(squealing happily)

I'll call you tonight once I'm settled.

Hey.

Oh, uh, excuse me.

I'm supposed to start rehearsals for the musical Odyssey tour,

but there doesn't seem to be anyone here.

That's because it's done.

Done?

Wait. Did I miss it? They said two o'clock.

No, the show is not happening. The investors pulled out.

Your agent should have informed you yesterday.

I don't have an agent. It was an open call.

Oh. You should really get an agent.

Thanks, that's, um... helpful.

Well, Merry Christmas.

(humming)

Is there any chance you're mistaken

and the show's just on some kind of hiatus?

There is not. But who knows?

Maybe you'll get yourself a hometown Christmas miracle.

Okay.

I've never seen one, but I've heard stories.

Do you have a place to stay?

We're supposed to get a few more inches tonight.

There may be someone.

♪ Deck the halls with boughs of holly ♪

♪ Fa-la-la-la-la, la-la-la-la ♪

♪ 'Tis the season to be jolly ♪

♪ Fa-la-la-la-la, la-la-la-la ♪

Well, well, well...

Look at you.

♪ Fa-la-la, la-la-la, la-la-la ♪

Hello?

I'm here to talk to Hazel.

Compliment, criticism, or complaint, put it in the box.

Actually, she was best friends with my aunt, Carol Wagner.

(audience applauding)

Have a seat, doll. I'll go get her.

(audience applauding)

(jazz music playing)

Well, that is quite a "how do you do?"

you got from show business, isn't it?

Yeah. It wasn't even on my list

of potential things to worry about.

It never is.

You know, you've grown up a lot since I last saw you.

I was 13 when my parents brought me

to see you and Aunt Carrol perform.

- Oh, I miss that lady so much. - Me too.

She helped me a lot when I got my first

"Welcome to show business."

Theater's not for the faint of heart,

but we wouldn't have it any other way.

Oh, I bet you have some stories.

Oh, I do, but I'm taking them to the grave, like she did.

I know that you had to stay home and take care of your dad

through the cancer. You know, and Carol understood,

but she always thought it was a shame

that a talent like yours would go unrecognized.

It's what you do for family.

Clearly, you never met my family.

What did your dad say when you told him about the show?

I haven't told him yet. They threw me a party, Hazel.

They always do.

He was so proud.

They always are.

He gave me money he doesn't have.

Yeah, my family didn't do that, but I did inherit this place

and turned it into a nice stomping ground for new talent.

And then, there's me, a failure before I've even begun.

This isn't your failure. It's just the business.

Look, the way I see it, you got two options.

- You go back to Muckalucka. - Pocatello.

Yeah, right. You sell insurance, teach math.

I'm terrible at math.

Of course you are, you're an artist.

Or you thicken your skin and figure it out,

like your aunt Carol would want you to do.

- Or option three. - Hazel: Yeah?

I could stay in New York, and I work here, for you.

Have you ever waited table?

I volunteered in a soup kitchen once.

You have no idea what you're getting yourself into.

- I think I can handle it. - Probably not.

But I'm gonna give you a shot..,

on a trial basis.

Thank you. Thank you, Hazel.

- Thank you, thank you. - (sighing)

That's Rae.

Her roommate just moved back to Tempe.

♪ On Mary's lap... ♪

She ran out of money?

Nope. Courage.

♪ Whom angels greet ♪

♪ With anthems sweet ♪

♪ The babe ♪

♪ The son of Mary ♪

Violette: Thank you, thank you, thank you.

I'm so grateful you were able to make this work.

Rae: Of course.

I didn't know where I was going to stay.

Wait till you see this place.

I totally lucked out. It's such a gem.

Ta-da.

This is a two-bedroom?

This is a no-bedroom, but the futon pulls out.

It's perfect.

I'm sending these gifts home today,

so if you have anything to send to your mom, get it to me

before I go back for the night shift.

(clearing throat)

Are you headed to a funeral?

Court?

I got the job.

As an undertaker?

Sales. Surgical supplies.

What do you know about surgical supplies?

Oh... (scoffing)

Nothing. They're going to teach me.

They loved my hustle. And you know what's crazy?

People are already starting to look at me

with much more respect.

I think it's the suit. Man or Mouse says

you need to dress like the man you want to be.

- It's all about perception. - You don't need to pretend.

Who's pretending? This is me.

I mean, I already own the suit.

I'm happy for you.

- You look good. - Thanks.

30 cents each. I printed a hundred.

$3000.

Hey, everyone. This is Violet,

a legend in her own town,

just like you all used to be.

She is a friend of the family

and she's going to be working here.

So, have mercy on her poor, inexperienced soul.

Hi.

- Hi. - Hazel: Oof.

You're going to have to work your way up.

I got a costume.

Alex here is going to show you the ropes.

And, oh, talk to the band about a number.

You get a shot.

Your first shot at a song tomorrow night.

She gets to sing that soon?

You got a problem with that? Take it up with management.

That's what I'm trying to do.

Yeah, and management says zip it.

Nepotism. It's a heck of a drug.

Don't just stand there. Come on.

You know how to do this?

No.

Brilliant.

Fiore's has a special way of dealing with customers.

Watch and learn.

Do you have any specials?

You want to go fancy pants, buddy?

Head down to the Plaza, get yourself some caviar and bubbly.

Tonight we got burgers, steaks and chops.

Are they plant-based?

Absolutely.

Nothing sweeter than the desserts at Fiore's.

Well, maybe my singing.

Here you go, stinkers. Dirty garbage and slop,

just like you, you filthy animals.

Now, go back to where you came from, huh?

(chuckling nervously) Uh...

She used to work at a junkyard in Jersey,

but we're trying to knock that out of her.

(clearing throat)

(whispering:) Sorry, that was real bad.

Just don't be gross. It's not that hard.

I'm sorry. Enjoy your meal.

(upbeat jazz playing)

♪ O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree ♪

♪ How lovely are your branches ♪

♪ O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree ♪

Hey, how's it going with Violette?

I hope she can sing.

(sighing) Be patient with her.

I wouldn't be where I am without her Aunt. I owe her.

Plus... Violette is special.

They're all special in their hometowns,

and most of them don't make it a year before heading back.

Show her the ropes.

Be a friend. Be a confidant.

What about Rae?

Yes, but you're the best we've got.

Plus, I promised her dad I'd look after her.

Do me a solid and I'll give you a prime slot on Christmas Eve.

Bribery will get you everywhere.

I know. That's why I'm good at it.

♪ How lovely are your branches ♪

(audience applauding)

(soft music playing)

You can do it.

♪ O Holy night ♪

♪ The stars are brightly shining ♪

♪ It is the night ♪

♪ Of our dear Savior's birth ♪

♪ Long lay the world ♪

♪ In sin and error ♪

♪ Pining ♪

♪ Till he appeared ♪

♪ And the soul ♪

♪ Felt its worth ♪

♪ A thrill of hope ♪

♪ The weary world rejoices ♪

♪ For yonder breaks ♪

♪ A new and glorious morn ♪

♪ Fall ♪

♪ On your knees ♪

♪ O hear ♪

♪ The Angel voices! ♪

♪ O night ♪

♪ Divine ♪

♪ O night ♪

♪ When Christ was born ♪

♪ O night ♪

♪ Divine... ♪

♪ O night ♪

♪ O night ♪

♪ Divine ♪

(audience cheering)

Who is that?

New hire. Family friend of Hazel's.

She gets to sing on her second day.

- Intros now. - You don't need

an entitled girl like that in your life ever again.

- You don't even know her. - I know the type.

Come on. Dude, this is the first time

a chick has sparked my interest since the break-up.

She's probably not even going to be around long enough

for you to get to know her.

Look, what do you even say to an actress?

Come on, if you help me,

it could get me out of your place faster.

Not happening.

(sighing)

Oh, my gosh, that was fabulous. Oh, my gosh.

(audience applauding)

That was fabulous. That was fabulous.

Oh, my gosh, if you love that,

we have a party here at Fiore's on Christmas Eve.

We have very limited seats, so buy your tickets now

or forever hold your peace

because this little lady who just knocked your socks off

is gonna be closing the show

with a special duet with your other favorite server,

Alex.

(audience cheering)

Brad: Whoo! Yeah!

(audience applauding)

It's for Carol. Don't let me down.

Come on.

Let's go talk to him.

- How about that? - Yeah.

I mean, Hazel said she was going to give me a good slot,

but I just figured it would be somewhere around the corner.

No, man. This could make our plan a lot easier.

We're going to be spending so much time with her now.

Dude, what do you say?

- You in? - Have you met our new talent?

Don't make me beg. Okay. I'm begging now.

I'm more of a mouse than I am a man.

- Okay. Okay. Okay. - Help me, please.

Stop. Stop. Stop. Enough. Enough. Enough.

So, you're saying,

if I help you with Violette,

it'll help you move on with your life

and move out of my apartment?

Exactly. Win-win.

Come on.

- Thank you so much. - Wow, that looks delicious.

Fine.

Maybe I could go ask a few questions,

get a little scoop, help you get your groove back.

Yeah! There you go.

Operation Chick Magnet is a... go.

Don't ever call it that.

Got it.

Gimme some.

Yeah.

(exhaling sharply) Okay.

(chattering indistinctly)

(slurping)

♪ And the mountains in reply ♪

♪ Echoing their joyous strains ♪

♪ Glo-or-or-or... ♪

♪ ...or-or-or ♪

♪ ...or-or-or-oria ♪

♪ In excelsis Deo ♪

- Oh, nice. - You're such a great singer.

Thanks. You, too.

How long have you been at this?

- Uh, four years. - Oh.

With one job to show for it, about a year ago.

Yeah, well, I've gone close a bunch of other times,

but, I mean, you're either in it for the long haul

or it's never gonna happen.

Well, hopefully, Hazel doesn't cut me loose before then.

Come on.

- I'm gonna... - (phone vibrating)

Dad, hi.

Morning, Bear.

I was just calling to see how rehearsals are going.

It's, um...

- going great. - Listen,

everyone in Pokey is talking about driving out to Ogden

to see the show. I mean, it's only two hours.

We just need the date. Do you have the schedule yet?

They...

haven't given it to us.

I'm sorry, Dad. I've got to rush out.

I, uh, need to get new, uh...

tights for a rehearsal.

Thomas: Okay, all right.

Use that money I gave you, okay?

That's great. Thanks, Dad. Love you. Bye.

Thomas: I love you.

I'm going to tell him eventually.

Hey, I don't judge.

Look, I got this for our door.

We have to decorate the apartment

for the holiday staff dinner on the 23rd.

I... we are hosting.

Can I ask you a question about Alex?

Mm-hmm.

What's his story? He seems, um, prickly.

Oh. He's not so bad.

A couple of bad auditions, some cattle calls,

and you'll be just like the rest of us.

Oh, great.

(shower running)

Brad: We're out of conditioner!

Again!

(playing notes)

♪ Who knew? ♪

♪ Who knew it'd be you? ♪

♪ Who knew? ♪

♪ Who knew it'd be you? ♪

♪ Who knew? ♪

♪ Who knew it'd be you? ♪

(high pitched:) ♪ Who knew? ♪

♪ Who knew it'd be you? ♪

Ahh! Oh, there's soap! There's soap in my eye!

I can't see! Oww! Oww!

Where are you?! Oww!

Hey neighbor, hold up.

Oh, let me guess, run out of coffee again.

Alex: Yes.

Brad forgot to tell me.

You know he uses your deodorant too, right?

Okay, you should know he's been really motivated

to get back out there.

He's even got a job.

Job? That is good news. That mean he's moving out?

One step at a time.

He was really left with nothing after Chanel dumped him

and backed out of the apartment.

She was a piece of work.

Yeah, she wrecked him pretty good.

I have to help out.

Why aren't you in Miami with Dean?

I couldn't afford it. He offered to fly me down,

but I don't owe my boyfriend money.

So, you'll spent Christmas in New York City.

There's no better place, right?

Well, Miami.

Well, yeah.

(neighbor chuckling)

I just don't know if there's anything there for you.

No, no. There's definitely something about this girl.

I-I can't put a finger on it. It's an energy.

Maybe it's that she's a human

and not a demon, like your last girlfriend.

That might be it, too. But hey,

what if I get Violette a Christmas present?

You don't even know her yet.

That would be weird.

Why don't I get her number and you can call her?

That feels like a little stalker-y.

I'll make an introduction first.

No, no. I need to seem like more of a prize, unattainable.

You know, Chanel always said

that I didn't challenge her enough

I don't know if Chanel's a reliable source.

Are you sure this is how you want to go about it?

Pretending to be someone you're not?

I'm sure.

- You're sure? - 100%.

- 100%, okay. - I'm sure.

All right.

And you should get out there, too, have some fun.

You've been so moody since Amy left.

That's got nothing to do with it.

It's just, uh... it's not my focus right now, you know?

Great.

Then, you can focus on getting to know Violette.

Why don't I focus on getting my couch back?

Hmm. Or...

(upbeat jazz playing)

Can you please hurry?

Our matinee starts in 15 minutes.

I'm so sorry. It's stuck or... rusted.

I want to see Simba!

Can't wait till the future,

when we get some technology around here.

Gotta have the magic touch, Idaho.

Oh, and I suppose you have it.

- Right here in my DNA. - Okay.

Step aside.

(bell ringing)

That, ladies and gentlemen, is how you do it.

Girl: I wanna see Simba!

♪ Everybody gathered ♪

♪ Together ♪

Hey.

Thank you for your help these last few days.

I know I didn't quite nail it.

Have a seat.

Why are you here, anyway, in New York?

I'm sorry?

What's your story?

Not a whole lot.

I'm a dime-a-dozen small-town girl

who came to New York to make it in theater

and got the rug pulled out from underneath me.

So, I've been pretending I'm in a show when I'm not,

and I need to make something happen soon

because I cannot let down my father and the whole town

after the way they've supported me.

Oh and I'm missing Christmas with my dad

for the first time ever.

The end.

That's a heck of a story.

You've got a good voice.

Thank you.

And on that note... ♪ Ahh ♪

we should probably choose a song for our duet,

since we only have a week,

and I hear we need to bring our A-game.

All I've got his A-game, Idaho.

So. I hope you're ready to bring it.

Wouldn't be here if I wasn't.

Last year, Greta Mae got plucked from that stage

on Christmas Eve and put right on Broadway.

Marty Levin is a God in this town.

So, I hope you're better at performing under pressure

than you are at waiting tables.

Guess there's only one way to find out.

- Fine. My place? Tonight. - I'll be there.

Me, too.

I live there.

Cool.

See you tonight.

Alex: It needs to be more special than that.

I get that Alex.

There's only so many Christmas songs

and you've nixed every single one I've suggested.

Because we need a showstopper for the final number.

Mariah Carey, "All I Want for Christmas Is You."

That's a terrible duet

and I don't think you can hit that high C.

I can hit anything.

Hmm. Ooh! Can you hit "White Christmas"?

- (yawning) - It's a great song.

It's brilliant, but too sleepy for a closing number.

"Frosty the Snowman".

Not even gonna dignify that one with a response.

We've literally been through

every Christmas song in existence.

"Santa Baby's" fun.

You want me to sing a song about

falling in love with Santa Claus?

Yeah, why not?

I'm sure he's a very giving and generous partner.

Chanel. Chanel. Chanel.

- Brad! - Hey!

I thought that was you.

Look at you. You look nice.

Doing some medical sales.

Going real well, big commissions.

Good for you. You finally found something.

(horn honking)

Oh, that's my, uh...

my fiancé.

Wow. Fiancé.

That was fast.

Yeah, well, when you know, you know, right?

Yeah. Right. I know

because I knew...

with Violette...

my girlfriend.

I'm so happy you were able to move on.

Oh, that building manager finally called

and we get half our deposit back,

but you can have all of it, though, 'cause,

well, I don't really need it.

I don't really need it either. I mean, I'll take it,

donate it to charity or something.

Okay.

Cool. Cool.

(horn honking)

- Uh... - Well, I gotta go.

Sales calls.

He seems great.

Take care, Chanel.

You, too. Good to see you, Brad.

Yeah.

♪

(car door closing)

Hey.

You should have told me we were having company.

We were just finishing up. Violette, Brad. Brad, Violette.

- Hi. - Hi.

I've heard you sing. Solid.

Thanks. I've seen you at Fiore's.

You're the roommate?

- Cousin, actually. - Ah.

Brad's just here temporarily.

He's moving to the Upper West Side soon.

I was considering the Upper East Side, but too snooty.

Yeah.

So, I hear you're new in town.

How are you finding our fine city?

It's, uh...

different... busier, louder, but I like it.

Well, if you need anything, don't hesitate to call.

You can keep that.

I do a lot of sales around the area.

I know this city, the ins and outs,

shortcuts, potholes.

You should see this new apartment he's getting.

It puts my hovel to shame.

Doorman, marble floors, gym, sauna, wave pool.

- She gets it. - Wow, that sounds amazing.

Mm-hmm.

Well, I'll let you guys get back at it.

Oh, no, we're pretty much done here.

We can, uh...

talk about this tomorrow.

It was really nice meeting you, Brad.

Remember, if you need anything,

like those Muppets said, "You've got a friend in me."

That was toys.

Still stands.

- Thanks. - Yeah.

I... I really appreciate it.

(door opening, closing)

(Brad exhaling slowly)

Thanks for that, man.

I just ran into Chanel.

How is she?

Same. Beautiful. Deadly.

And don't even get me started on her fiancé.

- Fiancé? - Yeah.

Aww. I'm sorry, B.

You deserve so much better than her.

Come on.

Yeah, yeah. Okay, you're right, you're right.

Okay.

(to tune of Beethoven's 5th:) ♪ You're gonna help me ♪

♪ You're gonna help me... ♪

Leave it to the professionals.

- (jazz playing) - (guests chattering)

$575.

- (jazz playing) - (guests chattering)

Alex, we need to make the gift baskets

for Broadway Gives Back tomorrow.

Can you go to the Holiday Market with Alex?

- Of course. - I've got it.

Of course you do, but many hands make light work.

Plus, you two can work on your song.

Oh, you mean the song we haven't picked yet?

Yeah, that's the one. Table four.

The holiday baskets are really appreciated.

Hazel's been doing this for almost 20 years.

Wow.

These are the biggest hit.

If we left these out, it would be anarchy.

Reminds me of the food drive back home.

Mmm... Can we get four dozen of these?

Worker: Yep. Coming right up.

So, you're a writer, and on top of that, a killer voice.

I guess I want to do it all.

My Aunt Carol did.

I love her work by the way,

Trading Up... genius musical, way ahead of its time.

Not many people would pick that one. She'd love that.

I tend to identify with lesser-known musicals.

Maybe because I tend to write lesser-known musicals,

when I actually get around to writing, that is.

When is that?

You know, there are only so many hours in the day.

My Aunt Carol always said,

"A good idea deserves more than just living inside your head."

Oh, I saw Hazel and my aunt

in the original cast of Skybird.

You are kidding.

Yeah, my parents brought me for my 13th birthday.

I came to New York and I felt like I was home.

I never made it back until now, though.

(phone vibrating)

(phone vibrating)

- (phone vibrating) - (sighing)

So... (clearing throat)

why didn't you make it back?

Um, my mom passed away the next year.

And then, after high school,

I majored in musical theater at Utah,

but in my second year, my dad got sick,

so I went back home to help take care of him.

Did he...

Oh, no. He's great, actually.

The only thing he suffers from is the crippling guilt

of feeling like he held me back for all those years.

I didn't see it that way, though.

I'd do it all over again.

Gotta take care of family, right?

Right. That's why you're letting Brad stay with you.

Yeah, kind of. Oh.

Old Mrs. Fusari's cocoa jars.

- We've gotta get these. - That's adorable!

So, June, you're a girl, right? What do I say when I call her?

How about, "Hi. How are you?"

Talk about your interests, but no politics or religion.

And when in doubt, ask her about herself.

Right. I always forget that.

Got it. Okay.

(exhaling sharply) I'm ready. Dial.

That was my first New York City audition!

Yes, you did. Congratulations.

- (phone vibrating) - It's all downhill from here.

Hey, Alex.

(mouthing "talk")

(whispering:) I just forgot everything you said.

(whispering:) Be yourself!

(deep formal voice:) Actually, it's me, Brad,

Alex's cousin from sales.

We met yesterday.

(whispering:) What is that voice?

Brad!

Hi. How are you?

Very well, thank you. How are you?

- Stop it. - Violette: I'm good.

I'm just coming back from an audition for Chicago.

(regular voice:) Ah, Chicago!

I love Chicago. It's my favorite city, actually.

It's...

dancing, singing, and...

Oh, repeating it together, and...

rolling...

The musical, even. Correct?

Uh-huh.

So, um...

Okay, uh, Alex needs to talk to you.

- No, I'm not gonna talk... - Talk to her! Shh!

Alex: You want her...

Hello?

Did I lose you?

Hi. Sorry about that.

Brad fell and hit his head.

- Really? - Just now?

He's fine. He tripped...

over my stuff. I guess... I need to clean more.

Oh, good. I'm glad he's okay.

Ask her if she wants to go out with me tomorrow night.

- You ask. - I can't. I just messed up.

He wants to know

if you'd like to go out with him tomorrow night.

Uh... I'd love to,

as long as he's gonna be alright.

You'd love to!

I'm fine.

Just a little lump on the noggin.

Phew!

Uh, Alex...

and his... girlfriend... June are gonna be joining us, too.

No, no, no, no, no, no!

I'll text you the details. Okay, bye.

Okay, bye.

Girlfriend?

I'm sorry. I panicked. What?

Man or Mouse says "Fake it till you make it."

So, I can't do this without you guys... yet.

Please? Just this one time. June?

Oh, I don't want to miss this. I am so there.

I guess... this one time.

I could just...

That was a little weird

and I'm not entirely sure what just happened,

but I have a date with Brad tomorrow night,

and Alex and his girlfriend are coming, too.

Brad? Why Brad?

Wait. What? Alex has a girlfriend?

Apparently.

What?

I don't know.

I want to help him, but I don't like to lie.

It's just one little harmless white lie. No harm, no foul.

Come on.

It'll be fun... honey.

Hey, Alex, we're out of deodorant...

again.

(phone vibrating)

- (exhaling sharply) - (phone vibrating)

Hi, Dad!

Hey! Well, now that you're a big celebrity, what?

You don't have time for us little people?

No. Sorry. It's been, uh...

busy.

I can believe it.

I can just imagine you strolling through Central Park,

past the Empire State Building, looking up at Lady Liberty.

Wow!

It's like you're here.

(Thomas chuckling)

Listen, you have to send me the schedule for your show.

People won't stop asking me how they can get tickets.

Well, the schedule keeps shifting,

so I'll have to circle back to you once we're locked.

Oh, showbiz talk. Okay, all right.

Well, you have your people call my people.

Okay, Dad. I have to go. I'm late for rehearsal.

I love you. Bye.

Okay, love you, Bear.

It's my daughter. She's on Broadway.

Welcome to the Festival of Trees,

one of New York's most prestigious events.

Yeah, whatever.

Remember, my tree is the one

with the hand-blown glass ornaments.

I did each one personally.

It took three months.

Okay, no pressure, but cast your votes accordingly.

Sure, whatever. Where is she?

Brad, this is for a great cause.

They're raising money for lots of charities.

Got it. Use that to my advantage.

Not at all what I meant.

Okay, do you have any useful tips for me?

Let the spirit of the event guide you.

I said usef... hey!

Oh, this is so beautiful.

Violette! It's so good to see you here.

You invited me.

I did? I did... invite you.

You know Alex, and this is June.

I'm the girlfriend.

The very serious girlfriend.

The old ball and chain. The old boot.

Oh, there's gonna be a boot, all right.

Uh, you're on time, that's awesome.

My ex was never on time.

Sometimes, she wouldn't even show up.

Anyways, let's go vote on some trees.

Yeah. Remember?

♪

How are we supposed to pick one? They're all so amazing.

You're a really great singer.

Oh, thanks.

It's been my dream to perform since I was a kid.

Are you a Broadway fan?

Love it.

Al introduced me to all of it.

We grew up together, you know?

He and his mom lived with us and he would play all the...

things. Love it.

What's your favorite musical?

That's a tough question.

Like the trees, how can you choose just one?

Um, excuse me one second. Just...

What are you doing?

- What's my favorite musical? - You hate musicals.

Yeah because they're so boring.

But what is my favorite musical and why?

You almost knocked over June's tree.

- Hurry! - Fine.

Uh, tell her you love Sondheim

and that Merrily We Roll Along

is one of the greatest shows ever written.

From a narrative perspective,

it really broke the boundaries of what we thought was possible.

Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, that sounds super smart.

Thanks.

Don't go too far.

Um... weren't we talking about musicals

before Alex rudely waved me over?

I'm partial to Sandheim.

You mean Sondheim?

(clearing throat) Sondheim.

Excuse me. Frog in the throat.

And I think...

Merrily... um... Rolling...

Merrily We Roll Along!

That's one of my favorite shows of all time.

Yes!

I mean, me too... from a narrative perspective.

I know. It's brilliant, isn't it?

The way the story is told in reverse.

That's what I was going to say.

Completely brilliant.

Wow. We are so on the same page.

Which character do you relate to the most?

Uh...

Probably the dude?

Which one?

One sec. Look at this. This tree's beautiful.

It's... It's my favorite.

(shouting)

My tree!

Alex! What did you do?

♪

Alex, don't beat yourself up. Accidents happen.

Oh, do they?

So, June, big plans for Christmas?

Well, I was supposed to be in Miami with my... friend,

but I'm a starving artist.

Need running water more than a plane ticket.

June's an incredible painter.

Only a matter of time before she hits.

And I didn't want to miss Christmas at Fiore's,

which is such a big night for this gorgeous guy here.

Yeah, if we ever pick a song.

We will, once you stop fighting me.

Why don't you stop fighting me?

Whatever you decide on, it's going to be

a very special Christmas Eve.

I don't think it would ever be easy

missing Christmas with my dad.

We see The Nutcracker and we go caroling,

and, oh, he makes this yule log that's to die for.

He crumbles candy canes on top of it

and it doesn't ever feel like Christmas

until I've had a slice.

That's what I'm going to miss most, Christmas traditions.

(thumping)

Ow.

Yeah.

(sighing) I really miss my mom's tacos.

Christmas tacos?

Yeah. We're, uh, we're not a traditional family.

Oh, well, I think traditions are what you make them.

And that's what you need, new traditions to get your mind

off of home and sadness, and I know just the thing.

- Really? - Mm-hm.

Why don't you enlighten us, Brad?

I will, June.

Let's hear it.

But... (chuckling)

it's a surprise.

Great, I love surprises.

Me, too.

Hm.

So thoughtful that way.

(chuckling)

Man: Woo!

- (piano playing) - (all clapping)

(applauding, cheering)

Ooh. Alex, you made it.

Merry Christmas, everyone. Happy Hanukah, Murray.

This is Violette. She's new.

Oh, how's the pipes?

For the cheap seats.

Oh. Happy to meet you then.

Likewise.

Murray, how's the sciatica?

Some days good, some days bad.

Today is the latter. Stay in shape, kid.

When I was Mr. Mistoffelees I could do a center split.

Now, Stan can beat me at pickleball in his wheelchair!

(chuckling)

How's the musical coming along?

Good. Really good. It's just really hard to work

with all the distractions.

Oh, it's not about Amy, right?

No, Elsie. It's coming along.

I'll have something to share soon.

Oh, great.

Violette. We're gonna drop these off for ya.

Enjoy! The cookies are really good.

They're all performers?

And technicians, musicians, designers,

some of the best Broadway's ever seen,

and pretty soon they're gonna break out the champagne.

So, you're going to get a show today.

Can't wait.

♪

♪ Jolly Old Saint Nicholas ♪

♪ Lean your ear this way ♪

♪ Don't you tell a single soul ♪

♪ What I'm going to say ♪

♪ Christmas Eve is coming soon ♪

♪ Now you dear old man ♪

♪ Whisper what you'll bring to me ♪

♪ Tell me if you can ♪

(laughing)

(applauding, laughing)

Why don't you two sing something?

Yeah, I can never say no to you, Elsie. Come on.

Such a cute couple.

(chuckling)

- Her? Me? - Oh, no.

We're not together.

No, not at all. Just, well...

(playing piano)

Maybe you know this one.

♪ Chestnuts roasting on an open fire ♪

♪ Jack Frost nipping at your nose ♪

I can't believe we didn't think of this one.

(chuckling)

Wanna make it a duet or what?

♪ And folks who starred in Broadway shows ♪

- (applauding) - ♪ Everybody knows ♪

♪ A turkey and some mistletoe ♪

♪ Help to make the season bright ♪

♪ Tiny tots ♪

♪ With their eyes all aglow ♪

♪ Will find it hard to sleep tonight ♪

♪ They know that Santa's on his way ♪

♪ He's loaded lots of toys ♪

♪ And goodies on his sleigh ♪

- ♪ And every mother's child ♪ - ♪ Mother's child ♪

- ♪ Is gonna spy ♪ - ♪ Will spy ♪

♪ To see if reindeer really know how to fly ♪

♪ And so I'm offering this simple phrase ♪

♪ To kids from one to 92 ♪

♪ Although it's been said many times ♪

♪ Many ways ♪

♪ Merry Christmas ♪

♪ Merry Christmas ♪

♪ To you ♪

(audience applauding)

I think we found our duet.

(applauding)

So, I want to take Violette somewhere Christmassy,

but I can't think of anywhere good.

She suggested going into the woods,

which I feel like is a bad idea this time of year.

You mean she wanted to go see the show Into the Woods.

See it, visit it, I don't know.

It's too cold for that right now.

It's a musical, but it's not Christmas.

You should take her to see The Nutcracker.

She said she goes with her father every year.

Did she?

Yes, she did, and make sure you pay.

Yeah, I was totally going to.

For both tickets.

Right. It's cool. I made a couple sales this week,

big commissions, fat stacks.

(laughing)

If Shanelle could see me right now.

That's great, man, but... (sighing)

Violette seems to like you, so just...

Just what?

You're a good guy, Brad, and she deserves to know you.

Well, she's getting to know me with a little help from you.

You're not getting cold feet I hope.

Dude, I need your help.

No, I just... (sighing)

Of course I'll help you.

Oh, I knew I could count on you, Cuz.

♪

(sighing)

♪

We're out of syrup.

What are you having?

♪

Rae: I don't even have any more songs to sing!

MAN: Oh, love is not a big enough word for

how I feel about you. I love, love, love you!

I love you, guys. Thank you so much.

Man: Consider it cast!

(laughing)

- Violette, hi! - Hi, how'd it go?

Good. You are gonna kill it in there.

They're so nice.

Oh, good. I'm really nervous.

Don't be. Break a leg.

Thank you.

- Hey. - I'll see you back home.

Alright, number 417.

Oh, that's me.

You're up.

Okay, um, I'll wait and walk back with you?

Hi, how are you?

(typing)

Hi, I'm Violette Wagner, and I'll be singing

"Go Tell it on the Mountain."

(beeping) A Christmas hymn.

Tis the reason for the season.

Tis it?

(typing)

- (piano playing) - (typing)

♪ Go... ♪

Thank you.

I have another song if you'd prefer...

We have more than enough.

Thank you.

Thank you for your time.

Merry Christmas.

I'm Jewish.

Missing Christmas for that?

One day it'll all be worth it.

Hey, hey, hey, hey, hey. Moving on.

Wanna meet up tonight and rehearse?

I can't. Brad's taking me to see The Nutcracker.

He surprised me with tickets. Isn't that nice?

So nice.

Yeah, I mentioned it one time and he remembered.

He's really so thoughtful, but...

But what?

I don't know, he comes up with these great plans,

but then when we go out and do them

it's like he's not there.

It's like he's two different people.

I don't know how to explain it.

Brad's a bit of a slow burn at the beginning.

Just give him some time.

(bell ringing)

- Morning. - Merry Christmas.

Thank you. (chuckling, ringing bell)

As we give, so do we receive,

and I am due for a little receiving.

I'd say, after the sacrifices you made.

I didn't throw myself on a volcano, Alex.

I took care of my dad.

I just... I hope I can make something happen quickly,

because I hate pretending like I have a show when I don't.

Just keep pounding the pavement and never stop,

words to live by.

What else do you live by?

I feel like you talk more about Brad than you do about yourself.

What about you?

What's to tell? Uh...

My dad left when I was seven.

I haven't seen or heard from him since.

My mom and I moved in with Brad's family,

and I'm just a guy from Scranton who'd rather be

in Wicked than be on the football field,

and football's like breathing in Scranton.

There's nothing wrong with that. You have a passion.

Is it your passion?

It's one of them.

At the retirement home, I heard Elsie talking about

your musical. Mind if ask who Amy is?

Old girlfriend before June?

No.

Oh.

Old writing partner.

We were working on a musical called The Christmas Callback,

and it was coming along, and then we go 46 rejections,

but who's counting?

Yikes.

Amy didn't want to keep going,

so she, uh, she moved back home to Cleveland.

Nothing worthwhile is ever easy,

at least that's what everyone keeps telling me!

If I'm being honest, I don't...

I don't know if I can finish it on my own.

When my dad got better and I was thinking about

giving this career a shot, I was terrified.

I just felt like I was years behind everyone else my age,

but by dad said something that really stuck with me.

What did he say?

It's never too late to be who you might have been,

and I didn't want to be the person who didn't try.

I feel like I deserve a treat. You know, a post-audition treat?

♪

What is that thing?

A yule log for Violette.

Because of what she said the other night.

Yeah, right.

What did she say?

Her dad makes these.

Christmas traditions.

No, nothing? Oh, Brad. I can only do so much, buddy.

You gotta be a better listener.

I got Violette a surprise.

Please tell me it's not a yule log.

Boom. Nutcracker.

- Yeah, I heard. - What?

(phone ringing)

It's my agent.

I'm going to take this in the bathroom.

Uh, sprinkle those crushed candy canes on top for me.

- (sighing) - Josh, what's up, buddy?

I listen. I'm a great listener.

Listener. I'm a great listener.

- Violette: Hello? - Oh, come in!

- Hi. - Sorry, hands are sticky.

You look amazing.

Thank you. You, too.

Are you excited?

You got me a yule log.

Mm-hm.

With crushed candy canes on top.

Christmas traditions.

This is the sweetest, most thoughtful thing

anyone's ever done for me.

Guilty.

Thank you.

Oh, you're welcome.

Did you see what Brad got for me?

Sure did. Very thoughtful.

I'm completely blown away.

I can't believe you thought of this.

Me neither.

Mm. Sticky.

June: You have to tell Violette how you feel.

Those two are so not right for each other and you know it.

I promised to help him.

Okay, but if they're not a match that's not on you.

She doesn't think of me like that anyway.

We're just... We're... We're... We're coworkers.

I mean, it was Brad that bought her a yule log,

just like the kind that her dad makes,

and he crushed candy canes on top because he really listens.

Okay, you two need to stop this, Al.

It's not fair to anyone. Not to you, not to Brad,

and especially not to Violette.

I can't pull the rug out from under him now.

He's doing so well.

♪

(snoring)

(snorting)

(shouting)

♪ Come all ye faithful ♪

♪ Joyful and triumphant ♪

How was the show?

So good. Except he fell asleep.

Yeah, that tracks.

(playing piano)

How was the show?

So boring.

I fell asleep.

It's an expensive nap.

Maybe you should pay your tab at Fiore's instead.

Give him a break, Hazel. He's sweet.

I'll give him a break when he pays off his tab.

I will pay it, man, but those tickets set me back.

You need to talk to her on your own, without me.

I can't do this anymore.

No, no, no. You can't bail now.

I don't want to see this thing blow up in our faces.

Please. Please, please, please, please, please, please, please.

Please, please, please, please...

Caroling! Caroling.

Violette said she and her father go caroling

at Christmas every year.

How am I supposed to work that in?

Whatever, I'll think of something.

We're out of coffee.

Of course we are.

Hey, can I get a martini?

Hazel, how long were you pounding the pavement?

Oh, I am not going to answer that.

I mean, everyone has a story.

Look, you need to keep your head on straight.

- 'Kay. - Alright? I got you and Alex

the closing number on Christmas Eve, right?

- Thank you. - Do not let me down.

♪

Okay.

(thumping, ringing)

Hazel asked (unclear).

Have a good night.

(playing piano)

What are you playing?

Uh, something new from my show.

It's called "Who Knew It Would Be You This Christmas?"

Can I hear a little?

Come on!

♪ Who knew? ♪

♪ Who knew it'd be you? ♪

♪ Who knew it'd be you this Christmas? ♪

♪ Who knew? ♪

♪ Who knew it'd be you? ♪

♪ You'd be my favorite gift this Christmas ♪

It's just bare bones and melody, but...

I love it.

I'm so glad you're writing again.

Yeah.

I guess I didn't want to be the guy that didn't try.

Look, sugarplum, I hate to bring bad news this close to Christmas

but we're out of mashed taters. I can get you French fries.

If that's acceptable to you, blink twice.

You got it.

Hi. What are you doing here? You're not on today.

No, I'm actually here to speak with Hazel.

I'm... I'm putting in my notice.

I booked the Chicago tour!

Rae! Oh, that's so great!

So, come February the place is all yours,

unless you heard something, too?

I didn't, but I'm so happy for you.

(both squealing, laughing)

So, it begins for one of my Broadway babies!

Ah! Congratulations! You will be so missed.

Hey, get her picture on that wall!

Oh, you'll always have a place here, right?

Come sing for us between shows, alright?

Thank you, Hazel, for everything.

(chuckling)

♪

It's never personal.

Maybe the director didn't like your shoes,

or you reminded the casting guy of his ex-wife.

(laughing)

Or you're just too short for the ensemble, right?

I know I'm new at this, but I just didn't think

the rejection would sting this much.

And I hate to keep lying to my dad.

Then don't. There is no shame in what happened to you, right?

You are in this career, then be in it.

You got what it takes. Just go for it.

♪ Everybody knows a turkey and some mistletoe ♪

♪ Help to make the season bright ♪

♪ Tiny tots... ♪

(playing piano)

Hello, that's you.

Right. Sorry.

I was thinking...

What if we go up the octave at the end?

♪ To see if reindeer really know how to fly ♪

♪ And so... ♪

Huh?

Yeah, I like it. Take it from the top.

(playing piano)

Are you okay?

Yeah.

Are you okay?

Of course.

Uh, I heard Rae's news hit you pretty hard today.

Losing your roommate already.

I'm happy for her, it's just...

How do you know you've got what it takes?

That you can take the hits and keep getting up again?

I guess when you can't imagine

doing anything else with your life.

Is that how you feel?

I've seen a lot of talented people come and go from Fiore's,

but I've never been more sure of anyone's chances

than the day I first saw you sing.

Thank you.

But I was talking about you.

Do you think you have what it takes?

I think I might.

I know you do, on every level.

Okay, so let's keep reminding each other of that, okay?

When we start to doubt, can we be that for each other?

Yeah. Yeah, we can.

We should probably get back to it.

♪

Yeah. Totally.

♪ Sunshine ♪

♪ To make me feel alright ♪

No, I think the music's okay.

Yeah, I know. (laughing)

It's pretty fun, right?

Yes!

Absolutely.

We have to check out the neighbors?

Hey, sorry we're a little late.

He was working on some songs.

I was in the zone and didn't want to stop,

and it's all thanks to you.

You really inspired him. He finished his musical.

Finished? Alex, wow! That's amazing.

But I had nothing to do with that.

I just told him to believe in himself.

Right back at ya.

Hey, cut the music, cut the music!

Hoo-hoo! Hey, everyone. So, I know that this lovely

lady here is missing home, ah, and the one thing that

she is missing most is...

(people murmuring)

Caroling!

So, if anyone wants to join us,

I think we should take this show on the road for a little while.

- Right now? - Right now.

Yeah, but we're kind of in the middle of a party here.

I didn't even get a chance to take off my coat.

- I mean, we just got here. - It'll be fun.

Yes! Woo! Caroling!

(crowd booing)

Okay, yeah. Let's go.

♪ Born in Bethlehem ♪

♪ Hark, the herald angels sing ♪

♪ Glory to the newborn King ♪

(sparse clapping)

What am I supposed to do? Pry them apart?

For starters.

She thinks I'm with you.

Then we should stage a big breakup fight.

I'm happy to be the bad guy. Just don't make me a cheater.

Yeah, I'm not going to do any of that.

Then what are you gonna do, Alex?

'Cause you can't deny that you like her.

No, I can't,

but we can go back to Rae's

and drink eggnog until I don't feel feelings anymore.

'Kay.

Eggnog it is.

Rae: Hey, come on, Alex. Why don't you sing one?

♪ Silent night ♪

♪ Holy night ♪

♪ All is calm ♪

♪ All is bright ♪

♪ Round yon Virgin ♪

♪ Mother and Child ♪

♪ Holy infant ♪

♪ So tender and mild ♪

Alex: I think this works great.

I'll start down here, you can start up on the stage.

You sing the entire first verse by yourself.

I'll meet you here at the base of the stairs, help you down.

Thank you. What a gentleman.

Yes, ma'am. What do you think?

I like it.

Oh, I have a thought for the end.

Guys, can we go from... ♪ Although it's been said ♪

Um, I thought we could cut across,

spin in, and finish together face-to...

Or maybe it would be better

if you stand there,

and I will be over here,

far away from each other...

and project.

Are you good?

I'm good, yeah. Too good.

June and I broke up.

- Oh. - Yeah.

Oh.

We just... We decided we were better as friends.

I'm so sorry, Alex.

I... I really liked her.

I'm sure she'll still be in my life, being neighbors and...

and-and friends and all, but...

Yeah.

Just wasn't there for either of us anymore.

Perfectly fine. Totally amicable.

Do you need anything?

No, I'm good. Good.

Let's just rehearse.

Okay.

From the top, please.

Should I start here?

Okay.

(sighing)

♪ Up on the house top, reindeer paws ♪

♪ Out jumps good old Santa Claus ♪

(blowing lips)

I'm nervous. I'm shaking.

Don't be. It's just another night at Fiore's.

It's not just another night, Alex, it's the night.

♪ Ho-ho-ho, who would know? ♪

I'm in it, okay? I'm here. I'm not going anywhere.

That's the spirit. You got this.

Look what just arrived for you.

Oh, wow.

He can afford gorgeous flowers,

but still carrying a tab. Mm.

"I have a meeting in a hospital in Philly,

but I'll be there in time for your big show.

Break your legs. Brad."

- (chuckling) - (unclear) legs.

Bless his heart.

That was sweet of him.

Very.

He's a good guy, Violette.

He's a great guy, Alex.

I just don't know if he's my guy.

Wow.

Okay, uh... (clearing throat)

Do you... Do you, uh... Do you know who is

or was that, like, a general statement?

I have a general idea, maybe.

Um, but I don't know if he feels the same way.

I would imagine he probably does.

I mean, it's you, after all.

But before I can pursue this other situation,

I should be honest with Brad.

It's only fair.

Yeah.

Honesty would be best.

♪

(phone ringing)

Oh, you got the flowers.

Yeah, they're really beautiful. Thank you so much.

(chuckling) You're welcome.

We just stopped to have lunch, but I'm catching the train back

into the city in a few hours. I'll be there on time.

I think we need to talk, Brad.

♪ We wish you a merry Christmas ♪

♪ We wish you a merry Christmas ♪

♪ We wish you a merry Christmas ♪

♪ And a happy New Year ♪

♪ Good tidings we bring to you and your kin ♪

♪ Good tidings for Christmas ♪

♪ And a happy New Year ♪

Hazel: Hilarious.

Well, I think everything looks... Listen,

I can't wait to dive back into...

Excuse me.

Oh, can... Oh, my God!

(crosstalking indistinctly)

It's so nice to see you.

Going to be great.

A night to remember.

Let's check out the crowd.

♪ To your and your kin ♪

♪ Good tidings for Christmas ♪

♪ And a happy New Year to you ♪

My dad is here.

What's he doing in New York? How did he know I was here?

I can't talk to him right now.

Listen, it's going to be okay. He wants what's best for you.

He must think something's really wrong.

You and your dad love each other.

Later you're going to explain everything to him,

but right now you're going to go out there

and show everyone in that room what you got.

Okay. Yeah, I can do this.

You can.

Go take a few breaths. Get yourself together.

Excuse me, sir.

(laughing)

♪

I'm so sorry.

(exhaling)

(breathing deeply)

♪

Hey, hey. Not here.

Why would she break up with me

unless you were giving me bad information?

It's not like that, Brad.

Do you want her for yourself?

I would never do that to you.

You were supposed to be helping me.

I did.

I told you about caroling and the Nutcracker,

and I didn't tell her that I bought the yule log for her.

I even pretended that June was my girlfriend,

and I did all of that for you.

June was never your girlfriend?

You were feeding him information about me?

It was his idea.

♪

Violette, it's not like it sounds.

No, I think it's actually a lot worse than it sounds.

I'm sorry, but how...

There you are. You two are up next.

(door closing)

Just put it aside for now.

Hate me later, hate me forever,

but we have to get on that stage.

It's our time.

♪

♪ To you and your kin ♪

♪ Good tidings for Christmas ♪

♪ Oh, happy New Year ♪

(audience applauding, cheering)

Hazel: Really fabulous, Rae. Fabulous.

Wow! Hey, make sure you catch her Chicago tour coming up. Yes!

Alright, for our last number, we've got the amazing,

incredible, astounding, Violette and Alex

singing a Christmas song.

Come up here you two gorgeous people.

(sighing)

(applauding)

That's my daughter. Yeah.

- (applauding) - (song beginning)

♪

♪ Chestnuts roasting... ♪

♪

Vi...

I can't do this.

(people murmuring)

Sorry about that. She, uh...

She had a...

I'm sorry.

Hazel: Okay, people. Guess what?

It's your lucky day, because yours truly is going to

be bringing this home for you with, uh,

"Jingle Bells." Yeah.

Vi. Vi. Violette, please.

(sobbing) I just want to be alone, Alex.

Violette?

Excuse me.

I'll let you two talk.

(breathing deeply)

How'd you find out?

Everyone kept asking me for the dates.

You didn't have the schedule yet,

so I called the theatre in Ogden.

Why didn't you tell me, Bear?

I don't know.

If I put any unnecessary pressure on you...

No. No, you didn't.

All you've ever been is supportive.

But you still felt like you couldn't tell me the truth.

Yeah, I guess...

I don't know, it all happened so easily for me.

I went to that open call and I booked the tour

and it felt so meant to be.

And then it all fell apart and I had nothing,

and I needed to make something of myself

so it wasn't such a waste coming here.

You have to look at the big picture.

That show brought you to New York,

and no matter the outcome,

this is where you're supposed to be.

There are no accidents.

No, but then I crumbled out there.

You know, Hazel gave me a chance and I let her down.

I... I let you down.

I let everybody down.

No.

Maybe it feels like that, but, hey.

This too shall pass.

The best thing you can do for you

is to finally put yourself first.

You've never done that, and I think it's about time.

You just... You keep going at Fiore's

and you will find your success in no time.

No, Hazel's definitely going to fire me now.

I was only working here on a trial basis.

(laughing) No, she's not.

And I am sorry, Dad.

You have nothing,

nothing to be sorry for.

You just keep doing, Bear.

You keep going, you have my unconditional support.

(crying)

I'm glad we get to spend Christmas together after all.

Oh, I wouldn't have it any other way.

In fact, I kind of feel like a dodo for not thinking of

coming to New York earlier. (laughing)

Wait 'til you see the Christmas pajamas I got us.

Are they matching?

They are so matching.

(laughing)

I love you.

I love you, Bear. Aw.

(sighing)

♪

Merry Christmas. I have a present for you.

What's that?

I'm moving out.

How?

I have some cash saved from commissions.

Plus, I got the security deposit back from Shanelle.

That's great, really.

I'm sorry about everything with Violette.

It's okay.

Look, I liked her, but I'll be okay.

Things are going good for me now.

She really did help me get back on track.

I mean, it wasn't actually me she liked,

but it still felt nice.

I know.

She's incredible.

Well, you really fell for this chick.

Don't say it.

I did, didn't you?

A little. But if I'm being honest,

it was a stressful trying to act like you.

I mean, it was you she was falling for.

Thanks, Brad.

And hey.

Next time you go in.

Eh?

Can you give this to Hazel?

It's all there.

You don't have to count it.

Okay, here.

♪

I'm going to miss you.

You're gonna miss me, too, right?

Right?

And behold, the yule log.

How did you get this here?

In my carry-on.

Oh.

(knocking)

It's, uh, it's for you, Vi.

"Fiore's, 5:00pm."

This has Alex and-or Brad written all over it.

I think you should go.

It's Christmas.

Marty: So, I had Christmas dinner with Basil last year,

and they had a buffet...

Hazel? What's going on?

Alex fessed up, so I called Marty.

Told him how those two knuckleheads played their

little reindeer games with you right before your big number.

It is my pleasure to meet Carol Wagner's niece.

You know, she started my first show.

Anyways, Hazel promised me a black and white milkshake

if I came to hear you two sing.

That's so kind of you, Mr. Levin.

Ah.

Ah, thank you.

Uh, could you give us just a quick second?

Marty Levin.

Yes, we... we met last night.

- Did we? - Yeah.

♪

So, was it all a lie?

Our friendship? Everything?

No, and I'm so sorry we did that to you.

I never wanted you to get hurt.

There's a part of me that doesn't regret it.

What do you mean?

Brad's plan had disaster written all over it,

but I helped because I wanted him to have a great girl.

And I let you in, and you opened a part of me

that's been shut for a long time.

Please, give me another shot.

I want to keep being the guy that lifts you up.

And I want to be that for you.

But right now we should go sing,

because no one should keep Marty Levin waiting.

Especially not on Christmas.

What?

I have an idea.

Actually, we're going to sing a different song.

It's from an original musical written by Alex.

♪

♪ Oh, I never saw it coming ♪

♪ No, you snuck up on me ♪

♪ I can't believe it's true ♪

♪ Even Santa and his reindeer seem more convincing ♪

♪ Than this thing between me and you ♪

♪ My heart can't help but soar ♪

♪ When you walk through the door ♪

♪ Who knew? ♪

♪ Who knew it'd be you? ♪

♪ Who knew it'd be you this Christmas? ♪

♪ Who knew? ♪

♪ Who knew it'd be you? ♪

♪ You'd be my favorite gift this Christmas? ♪

♪ Oh, the first time that I saw you I was not expecting ♪

♪ To fall for the likes of you ♪

♪ But this north wind out of no where blew down all the fences ♪

♪ I was helplessly into you ♪

♪ You saw through my disguise ♪

♪ With that twinkle in your eyes ♪

♪ Who knew? ♪

♪ Who knew it'd be you? ♪

♪ Who knew it'd be you this Christmas? ♪

- ♪ Who knew? ♪ - ♪ Who knew? ♪

♪ Who knew it'd be you? ♪

♪ You'd be my favorite gift this Christmas? ♪

♪ Oh, I can't stop this feeling ♪

♪ You've been stealing my heart ♪

♪ Oh, snow and mistletoe ♪

♪ Darling, I know ♪

♪ We've got a spark ♪

- ♪ Who knew? ♪ - ♪ Who knew? ♪

♪ Who knew it'd be you? ♪

♪ Who knew it'd be you this Christmas? ♪

- ♪ Who knew? ♪ - ♪ Who knew? ♪

♪ I'm so glad that it's you ♪

Me, too.

♪ You are my favorite gift this Christmas ♪

♪ You are my favorite gift this Christmas ♪

♪ Who knew I'd get you? ♪

♪ This Christmas ♪

- (applauding) - (laughing) Yeah!

Thank you for that.

That song deserved more than just living inside your head.

(slurping)

I loved it. Let's talk about your show, kid.

Hazel has my number, and you, we need to get you

up on a Broadway stage sooner rather than later.

(chuckling)

I gotta go. Kristin Chenoweth is blowing up my phone.

Merry Christmas.

Both: Merry Christmas.

(both laughing)

Would you like to see my third Tony?

I would love to see your third Tony.

Let's go.

I'm gonna make this up to you. I promise.

You already have.

♪

- (audience cheering) - (camera clicking)

♪

♪