Choking the Butterfly
nytheatre.com q&a preview by Eric Mercado
October 12, 2012
What is your job on this show?
Director.
What type of theater do you like most to work on?
I love working on theater that pushes the boundaries of what I've seen before and tells stories that are compelling, simple, and beautiful. I'm especially interested in work about people on the fringes of society - conjoined twins, adult babies, and pretty much anyone who might be deemed worthy of being in a freak show.
Who is more important in the theater: the actor, the playwright, or the director?
Definitely the director. Most definitely. (Of course, everyone is equally important and necessary to make a show happen)
Do you think the audience will talk about your show for 5 minutes, an hour, or way into the wee hours of the night?
I've been having dreams and nightmares about this show ever since I first read it. There is so much beautiful and disturbing imagery in this play that really sticks with you, and I think the audience will be left thinking and talking about it for a long time to come.
Which famous New Jerseyite would like your show the best: Snooki, Bruce Springsteen, Thomas Edison?
Probably Bruce Springsteen. Although Snooki would best like our closing night party (and is welcome to come, as is Thomas Edison).
Who are your heroes?
Some of my heroes are Federico Fellini, Robert Wilson, Daniel Sullivan, Edward Albee, and Beyonce.
