Denise Fennell, a Newton native and longtime performer, has returned to Boston for a 12-week engagement of the one-woman interactive comedy show "Late Night Catechism" at the Charles Playhouse. The production, which originally launched in Boston in 1995 with an 18-month run at the nearby All Saints Church, is marking its 31st anniversary with two shows running through January 3. The lineup includes “‘Til Death Do Us Part: Late Nite Catechism” from October 15 to November 22 and “Sister’s Christmas Catechism: The Mystery of the Magi’s Gold” from November 27 through January.
Fennell, who has been portraying Sister in the show for 17 years across the United States and Canada, described the format as a blend of scripted material and audience interaction. “The audience really determines the experience—for them and for me,” she said, explaining that the show functions like an adult catechism class where audience participation shapes the direction of each performance.
Returning to her hometown stage holds special significance for Fennell. “It’s the best feeling in the whole world, truly, to be able to come home to Boston, where it all began,” she noted. She spoke of the connection to local audiences who share a similar background and upbringing, and the opportunity to inspire younger generations considering careers in the arts. Fennell also expressed appreciation for the loyal support Boston audiences have shown over the years.
Currently residing between Los Angeles and Newton with her husband, actor and writer Rick Pasqualone, and their two children, Fennell shared insights on her travel experiences and preferences. Reflecting on meaningful trips, she recalled a 2019 visit to Italy that included a rare audience with Pope Francis at the Vatican, an occasion facilitated by a meeting with a cardinal during one of her shows. A rosary blessed by the Pope remains a cherished memento that Fennell incorporates into her performances.
Fennell favors being actively involved in planning her travels, enjoying the discovery of lesser-known neighborhoods and unique dining experiences. While she recognizes the appeal of unplugged vacations to fully engage with surroundings and companions, she balances this with her passion for capturing moments through photography and sharing travel findings with others.
Her worst travel experience dates back to a high school senior trip to the Bahamas in 1990, which involved a hotel relocation from downtown to Paradise Island due to safety concerns. Despite that early misadventure, she considers herself fortunate overall in her subsequent travels.
Childhood memories of family road trips, particularly summers spent at York Beach, Maine, remain vivid, embodying the blend of adventure and relaxation that characterizes her approach to travel today. When asked about packing for trips, she noted that she often carries scripts in search of new material, rather than traditional leisure reading.
Fennell highlighted comedian and travel show host Phil Rosenthal as an ideal travel companion for his humor, curiosity, and genuine enjoyment of meeting new people. For fellow travelers, she recommended gifts that prioritize comfort and organization, such as travel kits with essential items, and personalized music playlists.
On flights, she prefers light, unobtrusive snacks and mentioned a fondness for red shoestring licorice. Among souvenirs, items with meaningful stories—like the blessed rosary from the Vatican—hold the most value to her.
Regarding travel tools, Fennell books flights directly with airlines after researching the best deals and uses platforms like HotelTonight for last-minute accommodations, along with Airbnb for unique lodging options.
She emphasized that touring with her show has offered opportunities to connect with locals and gain insider recommendations, enhancing her experiences. Her advice for travelers centers on patience and flexibility, encouraging openness to unexpected detours that often create the most memorable stories.