Now that the run has concluded, what are your thoughts on how “Much Ado About Nothing” went?
Whew! What a journey into uncharted waters! First and foremost, welcome back to live theater. Every turn was a new discussion and a new process filled with amazing resolutions. I am humbled and so honored to have worked with such a team of actors. They were fearless and willing to try anything to enhance the art of storytelling. The production team worked 24/7 in front of and behind the scenes to cross every “T” and ensure that we were on track. And then there were the audiences. They were overwhelmingly appreciative and energetic. Such soul food for us all!
What was the biggest challenge and biggest reward from hosting ‘Shakespeare in the Sheds’?
Um, the lighting and the lighting. But, we did it! And didn’t it look stunning!
Is there a chance we’ll be seeing more outdoor productions from SCP?
There is every chance we will be seeing more outdoor productions. The sheds are so perfectly designed for outdoor theater and the evening performances as the sun set and the lights brightened took my breath away every time.
If you could play any character in ‘Much Ado’, who would you pick and why?
I actually thought about this during casting. The most tempting role for me would be Don John. I am so often cast as the nice Santa. It would be delightful to play a dastardly villain. Second choice would be Beatrice. Every line written for her is a soulful gem of pure truth.
As a Director, what was your favorite part to come to life in front of an audience?
The joy. The instant chemistry between Benedick and Beatrice (Jimmy and Liz) and Hero and Claudio (Grace and Ray). But even more, watching all the actors return to live theater and relearn to interact with each outside of a Zoom box. I loved watching their eyes and their faces as they danced and entertained each other – onstage and off.
What has the feedback been like from the audience?
I learned to be ready for this question every night – “what’s next!!!!!” What an incredible wave of positive energy exuded from the audience to the stage every evening. And I had to giggle from all their suggestions for upcoming adventures. Everything from “Oklahoma” to “Hadestown.” It was such a boost of karma to leave the set every evening knowing we had enhanced people’s lives.
What’s next for SCP this season?
Auditions for “Little Women, the Musical” are coming up soon! Then we will be bringing back “It’s A Wonderful Life” for the holiday season. I just love playing Clarence! We are considering adding readings from local playwrights and are open to other journeys. And, I will admit that I am delightfully engaged in secret negotiations with a certain Prince of Denmark for next spring…..