Antony & Cleopatra
nytheatre.com q&a preview by Brandon A. Wright
October 17, 2012
What is your job on this show?
Director.
When did you know you wanted to work in the theater, and why?
I knew I had to work in the theater my junior year in high school. I went to see Phylicia Rashad in a production of August Wilson's Gem of the Ocean and to this day I am not able to put into words what I felt. Her performance was moving and captivating. I knew that I had to use theater and art to change someone's life the way she did mine that night.
Complete this sentence: My show is the only one opening in NYC this fall that...?
...features a company of such talented, dedicated, and captivating actors of color. This is also the only show that will bring to life the worlds of ancient Egypt and Rome in such vibrant, new ways. We've got a lot in store. To see these beautiful actors on stage performing this timeless classic is something that you definitely do not want to miss.
In your own words, what do you think this show is about? What will audiences take away with them after seeing it?
I hope that audiences will walk away considering the idea that the head and the heart should work hand-in-hand in guiding us through life. I believe that too often we seperate the two, fearing that the inclusion of the heart in logical situations or the head in matters of the heart somehow lessen our ability to make the best decision. I want our audiences to consider the other side of that coin; that if we allow the two to influence each other, we may be able to make more honest decisions.
Which “S” word best describes your show: SMOOTH, SEXY, SMART, SURPRISING?
I think our show will give elements of all of these words. Though the story itself is far from smooth, the way these actors move through it with such professionalism and bravery allows the story to progress and flow with ease. This is definitely the sexiest group of actors I've seen together on one stage in a long time. The twists that we are putting on the story are smart and appropriate for today's audience; everyone will be able to walk away with something. And we definitely have infused the show with moments that will surprise and excite our viewers!
How important is diversity to you in the theater you see/make?
Diversity is crucial in theater for me as an audience member and an artist. Part of the reason I am so proud of this show is because we are using a different cast to tell a familiar story. Not only is diversity important because everyone deserves a platform to tell their story, but also because presenting familiar stories through different lenses can reveal things that we, otherwise, may not have seen.
