Get to Know the Grinch! A Discussion With Actor Reed Sigmund

Article by Becky Fillinger, Photos provided

Reed Sigmund as the Grinch 

See Reed as the Grinch in How the Grinch Stole Christmas! at Children’s Theatre Company November 7 through January 7

Reed Sigmund has played the role of the Grinch in Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas! at Children's Theatre Company (CTC) for six years. We talked to him about finding the essence of the Grinch, being a member of the theater’s Acting Company and interacting on stage with his spouse, Autumn Ness and child actors. Get to know more about the actor the Star Tribune called “a man of 1,000 faces.”

Reed SigmundQ:  Can you share any personal connections or experiences that help you relate to The Grinch's character?

A:  On the surface, there’s not a whole lot! I’m not green, or all that hairy, and I actually adore every little Christmas tradition. But at our cores, we have plenty in common. Unfortunately, I think we all know what it’s like to feel lonely. Or different. Or outcast. Maybe not constantly, but we’ve all had our moments of loneliness. I know I had plenty during my younger years of yesterday. And those lonely feelings brought their cruel feelings friends along for the ride. Loneliness often comes with sadness, frustration, despair, and anger. Thankfully, I was found and helped by numerous incredible friends. But I’m able to remember, and tap into, those hurtful feelings.

Q:  The Grinch's relationship with Cindy Lou Who is central to the story. How do you build chemistry with the child actor playing Cindy Lou?

A:  I’ve been so lucky over the years! Every young actor who’s taken on that role has brought their own bright presence, tremendous talent, and playful personality to the stage, and all I’ve had to do is react. Whether it’s in the rehearsal room or onstage, it’s always about listening. Listening to them sing, listening to them tell stories, listening to them find their own unique approach to each line. I haven’t had to really “build” any chemistry. I’ve just always tried to remain open and curious about how each actor will be different, and the chemistry comes on its own.

Q:  The Grinch is a beloved character. How did you approach bringing your own unique interpretation to the role while staying true to the character's essence? 

A:  The role definitely comes with built-in expectations. And while it’s important to acknowledge that, I never focused on imitating what other performers did with the role. (Honestly, I ain’t that skilled at impressions.)  I also didn’t want to instantly betray the audience’s expectations by putting my own spin on the role with the sole intention of being different. After getting the role, without rewatching any previous versions of the character, I let my memories of the iconic voice work and physicality of other Grinches sink in. Then I let it digest. Then I focused on the words. The character. The relationships. And the story. By the time I was on my feet in rehearsal, this Grinch had kind of become its own thing. The influences are obvious, but nothing is a simple duplication.

Q:  This is your 6th time appearing as the Grinch at the Children’s Theatre Company. How do you keep your performance fresh?   

A:  This role is so ripe with possibilities and depth, that I could never tire of fully exploring every nuanced layer that I discover. I don’t think my work and exploration with this role will ever be complete. If ever I feel it is, that’s the moment I move on from it. Acting should always be about discovery. I’ve also been fortunate enough to work with other actors who play and work the same way. We try to never stop playing. Never stop digging. Never assume that we already have all the answers.

Q:  You and your wife, Autumn Ness, are part of the full-time professional resident acting company at the CTC. In The Grinch, Autumn plays Mama Who. Could you share with us your thoughts about acting with your spouse and being in the resident acting company? 

A:  I believe the best performances are created in an atmosphere of trust. If I feel safe in a space, I take greater risks. I feel I have permission to fail. I feel I won’t be judged or ridiculed for following an idea or impulse that didn’t quite work. I feel I can fall on my face, knowing that someone will help me up, instead of criticizing me for my mistake. That’s why working with Autumn, and the rest of the Acting Company, is an immeasurable gift. They make me feel safe and supported. That allows me to create freely and let every idea have an opportunity to flourish, instead of being suppressed by self-doubt or intimidation. The best moments I’ve created onstage are entirely due to the relationships and trust I share with Autumn and my fellow company Members. 

Q:  On a personal note, I read that your home in Stillwater burned earlier this year. Is your new home complete?

A:  Oh yeah! We were in a house fire! Our home is being rebuilt and should be ready for us in less than two months. It’s been a long road, but this community has been impossibly supportive and generous. We’ve received an overwhelming amount of donations, kindness, and love. We’re going to be in a state of awe and gratitude for the rest of our days! We want to thank all of you who gave us a moment of your time and support. You’ve had an immeasurable effect on our family.

Above and below, Reed with the other cast members.