Afterglow
nytheatre.com q&a preview by Richard Thomas Henle
November 5, 2012
What is your job on this show?
Playwright,Actor,Director,Producer.
When did you know you wanted to work in the theater, and why?
My beginnings in Theater came in 2007 with a play called "L.U.N.C.H", basically i have always had the desire to perform, show off, get attention, and i have always been writing constantly and started off just doing films, but found it NOT rewarding, no feedback. When i stepped on that stage in 2007, and got that applause, i havent been off the stage since, 18 plays later.
What are some of your previous theater credits? (Be specific! Name shows, etc.)
Well there are many, i have done 18 and this show here is my 15th Show at the Manhattan Repertory Theatre. But some of my best i feel (besides this one) "FAKEBOOK"(2012) all about social media and reality shows "Manhattan Skyline"(2011) a drama about the tragedy of 9/11, and our take on what those lost would say about what has been done since in their name. "Full Circle"(2011) A great comedy and heart touching story about going to a High School reunion after 10 years and facing those moments from those special days. "Here I stand and Face the Rain" a drama about our biggest enemy, our own minds, as one struggles about going back to his town that he left, and uncovering the secrets of why he left. These are just a few of many.
In your own words, what do you think this show is about? What will audiences take away with them after seeing it?
To me this show is about things not said, about opening up when you have that chance, its also about Guilt, and promises we make that we dont think have affects on others when not kept, and also its about how our younger days clearly shape who we become. I think the audience will find so many things in this play, i think they will identify with many things, high school crushes, past friends that they lost touch with, and even how our teachers shaped us too, and theres cool music in the play that everyone will dig!
Which famous New Jerseyite would like your show the best: Snooki, Bruce Springsteen, Thomas Edison?
Bruce Springsteen
How important is diversity to you in the theater you see/make?
I grew up surrounded by all different types of people and i live in NYC and love NYC for the reason that there are so many different types of people, that is something that attracts me to other projects be it theater or film. And i have brought very mixed casts to the stage, but i never make it about "the race" i create characters and put all different types of people in those roles to paint the picture.
