Spotlight On: Max Dittmar

 

 

Connecticut Theatre Company’s “Spotlight On…” series continues with a look into the cast of Carrie. Get to know Max Dittmar who is portraying Billy Nolan in our production!

 

 

 

Introduce yourself to our audience.

Hi! My name is Max Dittmar, and I’ll be playing Billy Nolan. This is my 4th year being involved with CTC.

 

How do you balance the heightened, supernatural elements of the show with the grounded, painful reality of high school bullying?

In my opinion, bullying in school can completely ‘other’ someone from their peers, making the connection to the supernatural that much easier to define and portray in this show. Being targeted every day and being made to stay in an unsafe environment would absolutely make someone feel untethered to those around them; I think it’s a perfect combination for engaging storytelling.

 

What is your favorite musical motif or lyric in Michael Gore and Dean Pitchford’s score that helps define your character?

 

How does this production make Carrie feel relevant to modern audiences?

I feel that, with our contemporary costuming and very minimal set, our production of Carrie allows the audience to focus on the story being told; Carrie is a show that needs no frills to create an impact.

 

What has been the most physically or emotionally demanding part of the rehearsal process for you?

I would say that the aftermath of the prank on Carrie at prom, and everything beyond that point, has been the emotional peak for me during this rehearsal process.

 

What surprised you most about the script and score compared to the original Stephen King novel or the films?

To be quite honest, I wasn’t immediately sold on the score matching the story when I first listened through the soundtrack. Throughout the rehearsal process, I’ve come to love the music and script and how the songs somehow sound completely different from one another, yet tell the story perfectly.

 

How does the ensemble use choreography and movement to amplify the tension and horror onstage?

I love how the choreography is used to drive the story, especially during songs like “Carrie” when we as an ensemble are painting a picture of Carrie’s inner thoughts, representing her numerous fears of being ridiculed, rejected and hurt.

 

If your character could give one piece of advice to their younger self, what would it be?

Seeing as Billy isn’t necessarily a scholar, I think he might skip the academic advice and just advise his younger self to stay away from his girlfriend, Chris…

 

What do you hope audiences are discussing in the car on their ride home from the theater?