Meet the Staff
Charlie Freitag, Associate Production Manager
By Theresa M. MacNaughton, Community Engagement Associate
Tell us a little about yourself.
I grew up in Durham, Connecticut. I went to Coginchaug High School and graduated college from Full Sail University in Orlando with a degree in Film and Television Production. I worked in New York for a small television production company that created programs for Discovery Channel and History Channel. I moved back to Connecticut where a friend hooked me up with a stage crew job at Hartford Stage.
Tell us about the first time you experienced live theatre and how it impacted you.
I did a little bit of theatre growing up, mostly acting. My greatest role was the Sherriff of Nottingham’s Henchman #3. For some reason, the Tony Awards overlooked my performance. My first real production that I worked on was Hartford Stage’s A Christmas Carol as a spotlight operator. It was my first time working behind the scenes in theatre. I had gone to see professional productions before, but it’s totally different when you are working on it – you appreciate it more.
Who or what inspired you to go into this line of work?
I have always loved the entertainment industry – whether its music, movies, television or theatre. I don’t know what inspired me because I have always wanted to entertain people.
How does it feel to return to Hartford Stage after several years away?
Like I am back home.
How does your current position as Associate Production Manager differ from your previous role as Stage Supervisor at Hartford Stage?
Before, I was right in the middle of the production; and now I feel like I am pulled back and I see the whole picture. I think what I miss the most from being a Stage Supervisor is the applause of the audience at the end of every night.
What’s the most difficult part of your job? Alternately, what is the best part of your job?
The most difficult part is this is the largest staff I have ever managed. The best part is they are all very talented, and I am impressed every day with the work they do.
What would people be most surprised to learn about what your job entails?
Everything I do…I will explain. Since getting the job, I have had to explain to everyone what I do in detail. I think it’s because most people think you create a play and then it performs on stage. That’s it, right?
What production are you most looking forward to this season and why?
The Comedy of Errors – mostly because I have NOT worked on that many Shakespeare productions.
Do you have other talents or passions outside of working in theatre?
I still love the film and television industry; and if I am not watching, I am researching and reading up on upcoming projects. My favorite thing on the Internet is the Trivia section on IMDB.
What is your personal motto in life?
Even if you fail at something, what did you learn from it? What can you do differently next time? If you learn from a mistake, not only will you not repeat it but you can teach others.
