There’s something truly magical about holiday traditions, and the Children’s Theatre Company (CTC) in Minneapolis has a beloved one that keeps families coming back year after year: Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Running from November 5, 2024, to January 5, 2025, this production continues to capture the holiday spirit with heartwarming music, whimsical storytelling, and a message about kindness and community.
I recently had the pleasure of speaking with three key figures in the production: Dean Holt, the show’s director, Reed Sigmund, who has played the Grinch seven times, and local student Brody Breen, a rising talent from Eagan.
The Heart Behind the Story: A Director’s Journey
Dean Holt, who has been involved in this production since its world premiere in 1994, reflected on his long journey with The Grinch. Having played multiple roles in the show over the years, from a Who in Whoville to the Grinch himself (as the understudy on a prior production), Holt's deep connection with the material now comes through in his direction. At the helm of the production, he’s excited to bring the nostalgia as well as fresh updates to the stage.
Holt shared that this year’s production leans into the heart of storytelling, stating, “Holidays, traditions—they all come from memories. It’s about being together as people, as a community, and drawing on our pasts for that.” One of his favorite moments happens in the second act when the Whos are preparing for Christmas in a song called “Now is the Time.” It’s this very moment that he feels captures the essence of holiday traditions.
And while The Grinch may have become a tradition for many families, Holt promises new surprises for those who return year after year. “We’ve adjusted songs, added new props, and even introduced some fresh audience interaction moments. We want to keep the experience exciting and engaging for everyone.”
Reed Sigmund: The Grinch Who Stole Our Hearts
Reed Sigmund, the actor who plays the Grinch in this year’s production, brings emotion and energy to the role. He’s no stranger to the green costume, having played the Grinch seven times.
Born in Fargo, North Dakota, Sigmund discovered his love for acting as a shy child. His journey from school plays to the prestigious Children’s Theatre Company has spanned nearly 25 years. “I was a shy kid in many ways,” Sigmund explained, “but I fell in love with acting. Auditioning for any play I could find helped me find my place.”
When asked about his favorite scenes, Sigmund couldn’t choose just one. “I love interacting with the audience, but one of my favorite moments is when the Grinch is on the mountain at the end and hears the Whos singing. That’s when everything changes—the lights, the set, and the Grinch himself.”
“There’s something very human about the Grinch. He starts from a place of loneliness and bitterness, but through kindness, he learns to open his heart. I love that I get to take the audience on that journey.”
And though the Grinch may hate Christmas, Sigmund certainly doesn’t. “Christmas is my favorite holiday,” he laughed. “My tree goes up on November 1st every year.”
A Local Star in the Making: Eagan’s Own Brody Breen
Adding a local flavor to the production is Brody Breen, a 10th grader at Eagan High School who plays one of the Who children. Brody’s path to the stage is an inspiring one. He attended a theater camp when he was just six years old, and that didn’t quite capture his interest. But after seeing Wicked on stage, he was hooked.
Since then, Brody has been involved in productions at Stages Theater and Eagan High School. When his parents received an email about an opportunity to audition for The Grinch, Brody jumped at the chance. He sang, danced, improvised during the audition—and landed the role.
For Brody, the opportunity to perform in such a beloved holiday show is a dream. “It’s cool to be a part of something so big,” he said. “There’s something magical about being in the room, even if you don’t get the part. Auditioning is part of the fun.”
When asked about his favorite scenes, Brody quickly told me that it's, “Who Likes Christmas,” the opening number where the Whos prepare for the holidays. “It’s such a fun, high-energy scene. Everyone’s excited and setting up for Christmas. I also love the nightmare sequence with the Watchamahoo toys. There’s so much fun dancing and big moments.”
A Holiday Tradition for Families
Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas at Children’s Theatre Company is much more than just a holiday play—it brings families together. From the whimsical rhymes of Dr. Seuss to the heartwarming transformation of the Grinch, this production captures the magic of the season.
As Dean Holt, Reed Sigmund, and Brody Breen all reminded me in their interviews, the holidays are about more than gifts and decorations—they’re about community, kindness, and the memories we make with the people we love. Whether you’re watching the Grinch’s heart grow three sizes or singing along with the Whos, this production is sure to provide a joyful and unforgettable experience for all ages.
So, gather your family, grab your tickets, and head to the Children’s Theatre Company this holiday season. Whether it’s your first time seeing The Grinch or part of your family’s annual tradition, you’ll leave with a smile on your face—and perhaps a bigger heart, too.