Nikki DeLoach, a familiar face on the Hallmark Channel, has embarked on an exciting adventure with her fellow stars as they kick off the Hallmark Stars Live Tour. With the purple bus now cruising into its second week, DeLoach recounts her experiences while reflecting on the camaraderie that’s blossomed among the cast.
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In an interview with PEOPLE, DeLoach expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, stating, “This tour is a first for us all.” Despite the lack of rehearsal time before the tour began, she revealed that improvisation and collaboration became the cornerstones of their performances. “We’ve worked so hard together, each night figuring out what worked and what didn’t to bring this show to life,” she said.
During the initial week, DeLoach shared hosting duties with notable Hallmark stars like Ashley Williams, Andrew Walker, Tamera Mowry-Housley, and Jonathan Bennett. After a brief break, the group will continue the adventure with new faces, including Paul Campbell and Kimberley Sustad, kicking off the next leg in Reading, Pennsylvania, on July 29.
To provide fans with a glimpse behind the scenes, DeLoach has created a photo diary capturing moments from the tour’s opening week. One memorable image shows the cast huddled together moments before their first performance, highlighting the excitement and nervous energy. “We had no rehearsal for this show, so we were literally just winging it!” she noted, reflecting on the experience of being surrounded by such talented co-stars.
Another snapshot captures the group during soundcheck, signalling the moments of preparation that precede their show. DeLoach shared her fondness for the thrill of seeing their names on the marquee, exclaiming, “I mean, who doesn’t love to see their names on a marquee? Am I right, folks?”
In between shows, DeLoach and Bennett took the opportunity to promote the upcoming Hallmark Christmas Cruise, marking their partnership as not only professional but also personal. She described him as “the coffee to my doughnut” and praised their dynamic as co-hosts. Their collaborative spirit has contributed to the overall success of the tour.
DeLoach also conveyed her appreciation for the support team working behind the scenes. She expressed her admiration for Josie and Randall, the glam team who help prepare the stars each day. “We are the luckiest talent in the world to have these two glam icons getting us ready every day,” she shared, describing their dedication as essential to the show’s success.
A highlight of DeLoach’s tour experience was meeting theatre manager Dennis in Woonsocket, Rhode Island. After dedicating 28 years to volunteering and restoring his local theatre, Dennis shared his heartfelt connection to the venue. Hearing his story and witnessing his passion for the arts deeply moved DeLoach, who praised him as a true hero for the community.
Amidst the hustle of performance life, DeLoach acknowledged the importance of self-care, particularly when it comes to maintaining energy levels. “These days are long: appearances, driving between shows, meet-and-greets, and a 90-minute performance,” she described, underlining her strategy of carb-loading before the shows to ensure she can deliver her best.
One particularly emotional moment came when a fan named Sue waited outside the venue to give DeLoach a gift and share her story as a cancer survivor. The encounter left DeLoach in tears, illustrating the profound impact that performing and connecting with audiences can have.
Additionally, the sense of family extends beyond the stage. DeLoach highlighted the important roles of Hallmark’s Chief Communications Officer, Annie Howell, and the rest of the dedicated team that supports the stars throughout the tour. “We don’t know what we would do without her,” DeLoach noted, emphasising the warmth and unity that defines their collective efforts.
As the first week of the tour came to a close, DeLoach captured the moment with a final group photo, expressing her gratitude for sharing this unique experience with her colleagues. “We worked together with no ego, only passion, respect and love, to make this show the best it could be,” she concluded, underscoring the spirit of collaboration and dedication that characterises the Hallmark Stars Live Tour.
As the stars gear up for the second week, audiences can expect heartfelt performances infused with the teamwork and enthusiasm that has marked their beginnings. For those interested in attending the upcoming shows, more details and ticket information can be found through official channels.