A Christmas Carol begins November 15.
During this milestone season, we spotlight the people who have filled our spaces for 100 years. Come to The Goodman. Leave More Human.
For 11-year-old Nicole Niehoff, A Christmas Carol has already become a cherished family tradition. Her mother first came to The Goodman on school trips as a child, enchanted by the story’s magic. Now, Nicole carries that tradition forward—discovering her own love of storytelling, theater and imagination.
Q: Tell us the story about how you first came to The Goodman.
A: The first time I came to The Goodman was last December for A Christmas Carol, and I was so excited because I had heard so much about this theater. I read a lot and love good stories, but I didn’t really know this one yet, so it was exciting to see it for the first time on stage. It was really cool because I saw more detailed props and costumes than I’ve experienced before.
Q: What’s your favorite thing about coming to the theater?
A: I love the excitement of seeing a new show and watching a story unfold. It’s also something special I get to do with my friends and family, which makes it even more fun.
Q: How does it feel to see a story come to life in front of you?
A: It feels amazing. I think about the actors and how good they are. I enjoy performing myself, and watching friends perform, which makes it all especially meaningful.
Q: How do you think theater impacts people?
A: Theater helps people feel things. When you’re watching the actors so closely, it’s easier to connect with them. You can see them and feel the emotions. You also feel like you’re genuinely close to the action.
Q: When you hear the phrase “Leave More Human,” what does that mean to you?
A: To me, it means that you leave the theater feeling something new. You also leave with the memory of an amazing story and you get to feel alongside the actors.
Q: If you could invite one character to dinner, who would it be?
A: Tiny Tim! The character is just so cute, and has such a good heart.
Q: What’s one word you’d use to describe The Goodman?
A: Breathtaking. Because that just says it all and that’s really how it makes me feel.
