Area Attractions - CTC's Corduroy: Interview with Dean Holt

 The Children's Theatre Company will be presenting Corduroy from February 14th through April 2nd. It's a stage version of the classic character Corduroy.

I had a chance to interview Dean Holt to learn more about his experience with the show.

What is it like to come back to a role you've previously performed?

It's always nice to come back to a role you've done before, it allows you to take a second look at choices you made and see what still feels right and what, perhaps, needs to be adjusted. Choices come to you based on what's happening in the time and space around you in the moment, so naturally, new ideas and opportunities present themselves even though you're remounting a piece you've already explored. It's always fun too when my body remembers moments that my mind has gotten, there truly is "muscle memory" I've learned.

You have performed in many roles that involve a lot of physicality - how does physical movement help discover and develop the characters?

For me, physical movement is key. Storytelling starts the moment you've hit the stage, not when the first word is said, but literally as you walk on the stage the audience is already gathering information and making judgements based on what they are seeing. My job is to let my body help the words (or in the case of Corduroy, the lack of words) communicate what the story needs. I feel it just gives the audience so much more to draw on as they not only hear but watch the characters' movements bring the story and emotions to life. From the top of my head to my toes, every muscle has a job to do to bring Corduroy to life.

Corduroy is a classic children's story - how will this play resonate with older audience members as well?

Corduroy certainly is a story for younger audiences, but our goal is always to make the experience enjoyable for every member of the audience, not matter the age. To me the story of searching for a friend is universal, this time it's told by a stuffed bear looking for a button, but the moments still mean something because we've all been there at some point in our lives, looking for someone we can connect with. There are tender moments as well as physical comedy, I know there will be a laugh for everyone at some point in the show, and how fun it is to see such a fond and familiar book come to life right in front of your eyes.

Corduroy will play from February 14 – April 2, 2023 at CTC’s UnitedHealth Group Stage (2400 Third Avenue South Minneapolis MN 55404). Opening Night is Saturday, February 18 at 7pm. Tickets may be purchase online at childrenstheatre.org/corduroy or by calling the ticket office at 612.874.0400. Ticket prices start at $15.