Spotlight On: Lilly McIntire

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

Introduce yourself to our audience.

I have always had a passion for theater world and have been a patron of the arts, but this is my first opportunity to participate in a theater production since high school. Having relocated to Connecticut from Mississippi last year, I have loved getting to explore New England! I love to sing, bake, and spend time with husband, Jack.

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?

I feel as though the live performance of “Miracle on 34th Street” presents the opportunity to truly invite the audience into the story. We have the chance to make the audience feel as though they are going on this journey with Kris Kringle.

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

With this being my first production in years, I underestimated how challenging it can be to learn lines while also understanding the motivations and emotions that your character needs to convey.

What’s your process for memorizing lines?

My husband graciously runs the show from top to bottom with me over, and over, and over again. (Thank you Jack!)

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

This has been a surprisingly challenging role for me. I find Doris to be so different from who I am in real life, that it was challenging to find her voice and motivations.

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

What is your favorite Christmas memory, and why?

All throughout my childhood, my father would read the story of Jesus’s birth from the bible first thing on Christmas morning. It was a moment that was the “calm before the storm” and brought us all together before the chaos of tearing into Christmas presents.

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

The warmth and joy of a child-like faith in something you love.

“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