Spotlight On: Max Dittmar
Connecticut Theatre Company’s “Spotlight On…” series continues with a look into the cast of Miracle on 34th Street. Get to know Max Dittmar who is portraying Fred Gayley in our production!
Introduce yourself to our audience.
Hello! I’m Max Dittmar, and I’ll be playing Fred Gayley.
What makes the stage version of Miracle on 34th Street different from the classic film, and what does the live theater format bring to the story?
The film version of the show is clearly a product of its time, released in the 1940s. Although the play lends itself to be a more flexible, contemporary interpretation, the story remains the same in both versions: a heart-warming show of true Christmas spirit, showcasing selflessness and compassion for others.
What was a surprising or unexpected challenge that arose during the rehearsal or performance process?
I would say the “background” acting has been a bit challenging for me in this role! I want to have the right balance of composure and whimsy for Fred, and it’s been a challenging, fun ride to get into the swing of the character.
What’s your process for memorizing lines?
To memorize lines, I spend a lot of time just reading over my scenes. Trying to understand the motivation for each character that talks to me or cues me in to a scene, helps me to remember the purpose behind what my character says.
What’s the most challenging role you’ve ever played and how did you prepare for it?
The most challenging role I’ve played to-date would be the Emcee in “Cabaret”, right here at CTC last July. Not only is the material emotionally challenging, but the Emcee’s purpose as a narrator would often change his character’s motivation throughout the show.
What’s the last thing you do before you step out on stage / the curtain goes up?
Give my well-wishes to my fellow castmates, and jump around a little! I need to get some movement in my body to shake the nerves loose 🙂
What is your favorite Christmas memory, and why?
When I was younger, I used to love drifting to sleep in the backseat of the car, as my parents drove us home from my grandma’s house on Christmas Eve.
What do you hope audiences, particularly those who already love the film, will take away from this live production?
There’s a sense of togetherness and trust among Kris and his many friends and chosen family, which is particularly heart-warming to me. I hope we as a cast are able to bring to life some of that Christmas magic that’s apparent in the script.
“Miracle on 34th Street” opens on December 5th and runs through December 14th at Connecticut Theatre Company. Tickets on sale now!
“Miracle on 34th Street remains one of the most popular classic Christmas films in the history of cinema, and is so in large part because of its themes of family, new beginnings, and trusting in what we believe.” — GREG HEILMAN of The Sound On Stage
“At its heart, Miracle on 34th Street champions the triumph of faith—not just in the extraordinary but in the goodness of others.” — SABRINA WALLACE of BroadwayWorld.com
