ALBANY — Acting was never a lifelong passion for Stephen Syfrett.
In fact, it’s only been a few years since the 51-year-old first took to the Theatre Albany stage.
“His eldest daughter got involved in the theater,” Theatre Albany Artistic Director Mark Costello said in a recent telephone interview, “then his wife started doing some things, and then he slowly started sliding in.”
It was when Theatre Albany presented Charles Dickens’ “Christmas Carol” a few years ago that Syfrett got his taste of acting.
“Mark gave me three small speaking parts,” Syfrett recalled during a recent interview. “That’s pretty much what got me hooked.”
Since then, the former Atlanta resident has been a regular, acting in about one Theatre Albany production a year.
Currently, Syfrett is starring in the troupe’s latest production, Michael Frayn’s “Noises Off,” a British comedy based on the play-within-a-play premise.
“The cast of actors are performing the play, ‘Nothing On.’ ” Syfrett said.
Syfrett’s character, Freddie, portrays Philip, a man with whom he identifies.
“Philip is going through a nervous breakdown,” the father of three said. “Freddie is also going through a personal crisis. This poor guy is really at the end of his rope.”
Although such a role might be intimidating to some, Costello found Syfrett to be ideal for the complexities of Freddie and Philip.
“I guess Stephen is the character,” the artistic director said with a laugh. “Stephen always seems to be preoccupied with something else.”
That something else could be Syfrett’s other interests, which take an entirely different direction than acting.
“He’s into rocks and trains,” Costello said.
Syfrett’s interest in rocks stem from his work as a self-employed geologist.
As for the trains, Syfrett volunteers his time to restore the vintage railway cars at Thronateeska Heritage Center.
“That’s my No. 1 avocation,” Syfrett said.
He also serves as a volunteer senior conductor at the SAM Shoreline Excursion Train.
“I’m in my sixth year right now,” Syfrett said. “That’s a great deal of fun.”
The younger of two boys credits his Theatre Albany experience with helping him entertain train passengers.
According to Costello, that’s a common benefit.
“Once you get around shows and around people, you open up a lot,” he said.
The experience has also opened other opportunities for Syfrett.
“As a result of the theater, I’ve gotten involved with drama ministries at church,” the Georgia Southwestern State University graduate said.
As for his work with Theatre Albany, Syfrett prefers acting in comedies when he’s not working the theater’s sound system.
“I always like to laugh,” Syfrett said. “I’m more in tuned with comedy than drama.”
After all, laughing has medicinal value.
“Laughter is very important for mental health,” Syfrett said.
Theatre Albany’s production of “Noises Off” continues through Feb. 23.
CHECK IT OUT
• WHAT: “Noises Off”
• WHEN: 8 p.m. shows today, Saturday and Feb. 21, 22 and 23. Matinee at 2:30 p.m. Sunday
• WHERE: Theatre Albany, 514 Pine Ave.
• COST: $15 for adults, $12 for senior citizens and $10 for students and active military
• MORE INFORMATION: Call (229) 439-7141 or visit www.theatrealbany.com