Welcome to the SpotsBLOG -- an interview with Kristen Cooley, the director of THE FANTASTICKS! Kristen is both an actor and director, working in various theatres across the Baltimor
Spots BLOG - Interview
What makes THE FANTASTICKS specialto you? The Fantastickshas always had a special place in my heart. This was the first show that I ever saw off-Broadway. I loved the fact that not only was it a sweet story and a simple story, but the play within a play concept truly fascinated me. I love the simplicity of the idea of having four poles, a sign that says The Fantasticks and some props to tell the story. A simplistic set, simplisticcharacters but a truly wonderful meaning behind it.
Why do you think people should come see THE FANTASTICKS? My take on the Fantasticks is truly different than peopleare used to. I have tried to make this more of a fun evening of theater. I think this is the charm of the show that pulls you into the fairy tale romancebut there are characters that are
introduced that grab different sides of your emotions. Comedy, fighting, romance, realism and many more.
What is fun, challenging ordifficult about directing this piece? The most fun that I had with this piece was definitely the fight scene. It isn't your typical fight scene which allowed me toplay with the characters a
little more. The most challenging issue that I ran into was casting this show. When we auditioned this show, we had a wonderful turnout of over 50 people. The issue was that 45 were women who wanted Louisa. That is when my concept started with having two phenomenal opera singers play the fathers. From then it just grew and grew. The Spotlighters spacewas a little challenging to have a wall, I didn't want to block any viewpoints. Also, making sure that every audience member will be able to see the show without obstruction was a challenge I was determined to overcome.
What has it been like working with this cast? This cast has been great to work with. Everyone had great comedic timing which helps move the story along. The most interesting thing about this show is how great the actors are. Most of my cast is new to theatre and some of them this is their first show ever. You take a chance when you cast new people. But 90% of the time, it will pan out for you.
When you aren't acting/directing,what else do you do? I am an audio visual salesperson by day. I volunteer for a lot of community theaters like DundalkCommunity Theater and Cockpit in Court Summer Theatre.
What are the challenges ofbalancing theatre with regular life? It is a huge commitment to take on a show whether performing or directing. A lot of people don't realize, after working an 8 hour day, you are at the theatre from 7-10 most nights, sometimes later. You need to schedule things very carefully as to be able to get things done on the weekend during rehearsals and during the week if you are running the show.
What is a favorite role you performed in the past? My favorite role has beenPrincess Winifred in Once Upon A Mattress.
What is a favorite productionyou directed in the past? I am particularly proud of The Fantasticks, my production of Godspell has to be my favorite in the past though. We used a lot of pop culture references and had everything from LadyGaga to Star Wars.
What is your dream role/production?My dream role is to play Tracy Turnblad inHAIRSPRAY. I better land that one quick as I keep getting older.
What play would you like tosee on the Spots stage and why? I would love to see The Odd Couple Female Version. Since it is set in an apartment, I think the intimacy would lend itself very well to this space.
Who is your inspiration? My grandmother first inspired me to start piano lessons.There is always a little bit of artistry from her. But, the one who pushes meand inspires me to hit bigger and better goals for my productions is my fiancé, Holly Gibbs.
Any good stories about thisproduction so far? At one point during Mortimer/Henry scene. I had Joey change his line from Hello There, during Round and Round, to How 'r' ya durin'! Sherry, playing Louisa, totally broke character laughing, then Bart lost it because Sherry lost it, then the understudy yelled "HELP" at the completely wrong time which took them both over the edge and both were laughing so hard that they just stopped singing.
What is the craziest thing you've ever an actor do on stage, under your direction? The craziest thing that I have ever had an actor do on stage is perform two characters at once. Joey was able to rise to the
challenge and his performance is wonderful.
What tips do you have foraspiring actors and/or directors? Audition and perform as much as possible. The more familiar you are with new spaces, the more comfortable you will become on stage. The key is to be yourself and try not to get nervous.
What is on the horizon? Currently, I am planning a wedding with my fiancé. I will be auditioning for the shows that I want to perform in. But for right now, I am just going to go out and audition for anything and everything. This may be an off year for me because I am going to be paying for my own wedding. So a second job may be in order.
- - - submitted: Dec 8, 2011
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