What is your role in this production? I am playing Young Phyllis. The younger version of Phyllis is sweet, naïve, and self-doubting. She is completely in love with Ben and believes she’s not good enough for him.
What is your background in theatre? At Walterdale? I got my start with St. Albert Children’s Theatre almost 20 years ago and have done at least one musical a year since then. I’ve performed in two other Walterdale Productions: You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown (2009) and Anything Goes (2013). Some favorite past roles include Wednesday Addams (The Addams Family Musical), Marta (Kiss of the Spiderwoman), Serena (Legally Blonde), and Hattie (Kiss Me Kate).
What brought you out for this production? Why did you want to be involved in this show? I came out for this production because I love working with Barb and Michael. Having decided not to pursue theatre professionally, it’s become a much loved hobby of mine and shows with Barb and Michael are always fun. I heard they were doing Follies and listened to some of the music, then I was hooked!
This show is about theatre and nostalgia – got any good theatre stories? I have a bad habit of tripping and falling down on stage. The first larger role I was ever cast in was Susan Pevensie in Narnia the Musical. (Yes, that show actually exists!) During the scene where we first entered Narnia, I stepped off the set and wiped out face flat on the floor. The only thing I could think of to say was “Oooh it’s icy!” I got a laugh, but I was so embarrassed!
What has been the most challenging part of doing the show? I had to miss the first half of the rehearsal process due to being involved in ELOPE’s Sweeney Todd. Coming in late, it was a push to catch up and learn everything. I’m also the only one in the young cast with no formal training in tap, so keeping up with the other girls in the tap dance is hard work!
What has been the best thing about doing the show? Spending time with old friends and getting to meet new people.
Follies runs from July 5-15, 2017 at Walterdale Theatre. Call 780.420.1757 or go to www.tixonthesquare.ca for tickets today!