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The stage adaptation of Miracle on 34th Street is a cherished holiday classic that offers a fresh perspective on the familiar tale. Featuring live performances, audiences can immerse themselves in a dynamic experience that differs from the traditional film. This article explores insights from cast members Zenn Langley and Lilly McIntire as they share their thoughts on the production and their personal experiences.
Meet the cast: Zenn Langley and Lilly McIntire
Zenn Hunter Langley, who plays the role of Finley, is a creative individual with interests in crocheting, video games, and caring for his orange cat, Mr. Noodles. His enthusiasm for performing is evident as he discusses the emotional depth that live theater brings to the characters. Zenn highlights that the primary distinction between the stage version and the film lies in the emotional connections formed during performances. He states, “Live theater allows audiences to witness the unfolding of each character’s journey in real time, creating a thrilling atmosphere with every scene transition.”
The excitement of live performances
For Zenn, the excitement of live theater stems from the unpredictability of each performance. The immediate reactions from the audience and the fluidity of scene changes create an electrifying environment. He emphasizes how audience engagement can enhance the experience, noting, “You never know who or what will appear when the lights come up again!” This sense of anticipation makes every performance a unique event.
Challenges in the rehearsal process
Learning lines can often be a daunting task, especially when cues heavily rely on music or choreography. Zenn recalls a surprising hurdle during rehearsals: “I found it challenging to remember my lines without the rhythm of music or dance to guide me.” To address this, he employs a method of writing and typing out lines, which aids in his memorization.
In contrast, Lilly McIntire, who portrays Doris Walker, brings a fresh perspective to the stage. After relocating from Mississippi to Connecticut, this production marks her return to theater after a long hiatus. Lilly expresses her excitement about sharing her love for the arts, stating, “It feels wonderful to finally participate in a theater production again!”
Finding the character’s voice
For Lilly, stepping into Doris’s shoes has proven to be a unique challenge. She admits that connecting with Doris—a character quite different from herself—has required significant effort. “Understanding her motivations and emotions has been a fascinating journey for me,” Lilly reflects. To prepare, she consistently practices her lines with her husband, Jack, who supports her throughout the process.
Memorable moments and personal reflections
As both actors look forward to opening night, they reflect on their favorite holiday memories. Zenn cherishes the memory of receiving Mr. Noodles during Christmas and enjoying classic films together. For Lilly, cherished moments revolve around her father reading the biblical story of Jesus’s birth every Christmas morning—a tradition that brought her family together before the festive chaos ensued.
Both Zenn and Lilly hope that audiences will leave the theater with a sense of warmth and compassion. Zenn expresses a desire for viewers to embrace kindness and openness towards others, emphasizing, “You never know how a small act of generosity can impact someone’s life.” Lilly echoes this sentiment, wishing to inspire a sense of child-like wonder and faith in the audience.
The production runs from December 5 to December 14 at the Connecticut Theatre Company, and the cast is eager to share their rendition of this timeless story. Tickets are available now for those wishing to experience the magic of live theater.
The power of live performance
The stage version of Miracle on 34th Street not only showcases the talents of its cast but also highlights the ability of live performance to evoke emotions and create lasting memories. Through the dedication of actors like Zenn and Lilly, audiences are invited to partake in a journey filled with hope, love, and the spirit of Christmas.