Spotlight On: Fredrick Goff

 

Connecticut Theatre Company’s “Spotlight On…” series continues with a look into the cast of Miracle on 34th Street. Get to know Fredrick Goff who is portraying Kris Kringle in our production!

 

 

Introduce yourself to our audience.

Ho ho ho!  I am Fredrick Goff, and I am playing Kris Kringle.

 

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?

Live theater is always different from the film versions. A 3-dimensional experience brings you into the story. You can feel and see the performers as they transition between heartfelt emotions that film can’t replicate.

 

What was a surprising or unexpected challenge that arose during the rehearsal or performance process?

Assembling a cast with wide backgrounds and experiences and watching them grow into a cohesive troop that allows the audience to be enthralled.

 

What’s your process for memorizing lines?

How do you get to Carnegie Hall? Practice, practice, practice.

 

What’s the most challenging role you’ve ever played and how did you prepare for it?

I was contracted to replace an opera singer who had a family emergency on Monday before the first performance on that Friday. I had to learn the role in Italian (which I don’t speak) and the staging in two rehearsals. Sleepless nights!!

 

What’s the last thing you do before you step out on stage / the curtain goes up?

Before every show I remember that this is the first time the audience has seen this show. And they paid to be here. So, I focus my energy and thoughts to bring the best I can to help them enjoy this experience.

 

What is your favorite Christmas memory, and why?

My favorite memory is the season. Each year our family cuts our own tree and decorates the house. And then there are Christmas choirs and pageants and carols. The joy is effusive.

 

What do you hope audiences, particularly those who already love the film, will take away from this live production?

I hope the audience will be renewed and rejuvenated with the joy of Christmas and the hope that wishes and dreams can come true.

 

 

 

“Miracle on 34th Street” opened 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