Pal Joey Blog’s Exclusive Interview With Christian Hoff

These last few days before previews begin, the cast of Pal Joey is working long hard hours to prepare for the 14th (just two days away!!!). Even so, Christian Hoff was gracious enough to take a few minutes to chat about the show:

PJblog: How has the transition been from Jersey Boys to Pal Joey? Has your experience portraying Tommy DeVito been helpful in making that transition?

CH: The transition has been seamless. My overlapping of these two productions has allowed me to transfer my artistic adrenaline into another character. Yes, my portrayal of a real life “bad boy” has helped me with a more human perspective with regard to the bad boy icon Joey Evans.

PJblog: You worked closely with three men in Jersey Boys, and now your character is involved with three women. Are you the luckiest guy alive, or ????

CH: Let’s just say that it’s a bit more complicated juggling three love interests versus brothers.

PJblog: And what a wonderful cast in Pal Joey. Can you tell us a little bit about the people you’re working with?

CH: Stockard Channing is both a seasoned veteran of film and stage and a humble working actor who embraces the process. Martha Plimpton has brought a real sense of fun and professionalism. She has raised the stakes for me as both an actor and my character. Jenny Fellner has brought a great combination of innocence and strength to Linda and has given me a whole different emotional palette to work from.

PJblog: So many of the people who are familiar with Pal Joey have the movie in mind, and some even compare you to Frank Sinatra. But the original Broadway show was much different. Can you share any details about what we might expect from this revival? Does it basically stay true to the original show?

CH: Those familiar with the show based on the film and Frank Sinatra are in for a real treat because our production brings out the original intent of the Rodgers and Hart Broadway production. Thanks to Richard Greenberg’s brilliant adaptation, he provides a clear perspective on the character study of John O’Hara’s original short stories.

PJblog: Gene Kelly and Harold Lang were serious dancers. I know you busted some moves in JB, but somehow I think this is going to be quite different. How are you preparing?

CH: Our choreographer Graciela Daniele and I worked closely together to pay homage to Joey’s inspirations..Fred Astaire, Gene Kelly and all the great dancers of the 20’s and 30’s. Plus, coupled with my style, rhythm and my own ideas, we’ve come up with a unique vocabulary for Joey and the choreography of the show.

PJblog: I know you’ve been working extremely hard to get this show ready for the 14th, and I appreciate your taking the time with me. But before we go, I have to ask…how’s your family?

CH: Melissa and Elizabeth have been with me every step of the way and Eli and Erika are really looking forward to seeing what Papa is doing next.

PJblog: ….and, any chance of a recurring role in Ugly Betty? That was quite unexpected and hilarious!

CH: Yes, they have left it open for DA Blackman to return using his powers of persuasion!

PJblog: Fantastic! A lot of people will be keeping an eye out for that.

Thank you, Christian, for taking a few minutes to share your thoughts with us. We’re all looking forward to seeing you light up the stage as Joey Evans! Break a leg!

If you haven’t bought your tickets yet, click here to visit Roundabout Theatre Company’s website.