Spotlight On: Dane Millette

Connecticut Theatre Company’s “Spotlight On…” series continues with a look into our talented cast of Meet Me in St Louis. Get to know the stern Dane Millette who will be appearing as Mr. Smith.

What is your favorite holiday memory?

My favorite memory, to be somewhat general rather than specific, is just how much a family time it’s always been for me. My mother’s family fortunately all lived nearby. After our own early day routine of presents with my parents, we’d always end up at my aunt’s house later in the day with the aunts, uncles, cousins, eventually cousin-in-laws, and often other close friends who were like family to us as well. It was always a special time for us all to be together and share some laughs, play some music, enjoy some food and all be together.

Who is your favorite character in the show?

A tough call, but Grandpa may be my favorite. He seems to enjoy his grandkids so much. He’s always attentive to the younger kids, Agnes and Tootie, and goes the extra mile to assist Rose and Esther in their times of trouble. He’s a steadying force for the Smith children, and just an all-around charming character.

Where is your hometown?

I’ve been in Cromwell forever. Started on a farm on the river side of town and bounced around a few different addresses to end up on the Berlin side of town, but always in Cromwell.

How many brothers/sisters do you have?

Zero – it’s just me!

What is your favorite song in the show?

I’ll admit I’m finding “Whenever I’m With You” to be very catchy and it’s popping into my head all the time, and I’m not even technically in it (though I do make myself heard in my own way!). My true favorite however, is “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”. It touches a deeply sentimental spot in regards to my parents, especially my father. We always listened to the song on one of their Christmas albums, but after my father’s first heart attack, “Through the years we all will be together, if the fates allow” (as that version phrased it) always led to a very emotional moment between the three of us each year. Though the road remained bumpy for him, we were indeed blessed with many more years together. The song still reminds me of our love for each other and how thankful we were for each and every year to come.

With music and lyrics by Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane and book by Hugh Wheeler, Meet Me in St Louis opens December 6th and runs through December 22nd at Connecticut Theatre Company. Tickets on sale now!