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Rising Star Interview: Jeffrey Scott Parsons

Tell us about your latest solo project.

Last year, I had the opportunity to create a one man show for Sterling’s Upstairs at the Federal in North Hollywood. I knew pretty immediately that I wanted the show to be more than a showcase or concert. I wanted there to be storytelling and humor and lots of tap dancing. I also knew I wanted it to be personal. The concept that bubbled out of all that was this lesson I continue to learn: that the most profound experiences we have in our lives are often uncomfortable. They push us past the horizon we’re used to. I first discovered that as an artistic kid in a small farm town, then as a young missionary at 19 years old, and then as an adult, living with a sexuality and religion that often seem to be at odds. I first performed COMFY in January 2018, and since then it has taken on a life of its own. I’ve been able to perform it in different cities all over, and each time, the conversations I’ve had with audiences have filled my soul. I’m very grateful to say it has been one of the most satisfying experiences of my life.

What was the place of your birth including reference to its influence on your character today?

I’m a proud farm boy from Willard, Utah though I’m prouder now than I was as a kid. Growing up, Willard was mainly a farming community. My grandpa was a livestock cattleman, and we all lived on and around the property. We were a tight family and I think of my childhood as a great mix of fun and hard work. That’s what living with farm folk is all about.

How did your rearing as a child affect the artist you have become today? (parents, siblings, other relatives)

While I lived in a small town, my family was surprisingly artistic. I think that’s something you find a lot in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints. After all, the church is responsible for the most famous choir in America, so music is very present in our culture. We sang a lot as a family. My mom played the piano. My older brother played the guitar and my older sister, the flute. My dad would dust off his saxophone and play something like “The Days of Wine and Roses” a couple of times each year. My parents were very intent on helping all five of us kids find something special we could be passionate about. I feel like it took me a long time to find it, but my parents were very patient. I tried tee ball, soccer, karate, and then finally I found dance.

What are the specific circumstances surrounding your basic education including preschool, elementary school, secondary school, college, graduate school? What are the major features of the schooling which have prominently affected you today?

I was good at school. I enjoyed figuring out the rules and excelling at them. I liked getting to know my teachers. I think all of those things made it confusing when I would then tell school counselors I wanted to go into show business. That’s who I was, though. When I got to Jr High, I felt as if I had moved to the big city, so I really enjoyed it. By the time High School came around, though, I was ready for the next move. My senior year, I began an early college program. I went to Weber State University for a year and a half before leaving to serve a mission for my church. I know two years as an LDS missionary isn’t a traditional form of education, but that was probably one of the greatest learning experiences I’ve ever had. I served in southwest Texas as a Spanish speaking missionary, and I look back on it as laying the groundwork for who I am as an adult. After I came back, I transferred to Brigham Young University where I got a BFA in Music Dance Theatre. I enjoyed my education at BYU because it provided me a safe place to look beneath all the layers of rules and conformity that I had really excelled at and make space for the creativity I hadn’t been nurturing.

During your basic education, did you cherish a particular teacher? If so, why?

My third grade teacher was Mr. Yates, and I loved him. He would read to us a couple of days each week, and one of the books he read us was The Outsiders. Is that book too much for third graders? Who knows. The important point is I was so engrossed by the story that one day I went to the library and got the book because I couldn’t wait to find out what was going to happen. That was the first real book I ever read. Coincidentally, Mr. Yates’s brother was my English teacher in High School, and I loved him too. Good teachers must have run in the family. They really stirred my appetite for good storytelling.

At what point did you recognize that you possessed a special talent which might allow you to pursue a life in the Arts?

In the fifth grade, I auditioned for the role of Michael in Peter Pan at the local high school, and I got it. I think I got it because I was loud, but regardless, I was convinced I had hit the big time. I got to fly. I was performing with high schoolers. What else was there?? My elementary school even came to see the show! Afterward, one of the 5th grade teachers pulled me aside and encouraged me not to go into theatre. He said he had studied it in college and even played the Tin Man in The Wizard of Oz, so he obviously knew what he was talking about. Even though I was very young, I specifically remember thinking, “What the crap is wrong with this dude?” Seriously though? His college production of The Wizard of Oz was supposed to be the great parable for where my career path should lead?? That production of Peter Pan was the experience that taught me how much I loved being onstage, and how weird that made some adults feel. I’ve learned to embrace both.

Do you remember any personal performing disasters during your schooling?

At BYU I was in a production of Elton John’s Aida, and at 30 minutes to the top of the show, I ran to the bathroom and threw up…twice. It was food poisoning. I couldn’t move, but I also had to go on because there were no understudies. Thankfully, I didn’t have a big role. I went on and performed the first two numbers, and then came off stage silently sobbing because I was in so much pain. I threw up again when I was supposed to be onstage doing “The Dance of the Robe.” I covered up my microphone, so the audience wouldn’t hear what was happening. It was a total disaster. Coincidentally, that was the production I realized I couldn’t perform for free anymore. hahaha.

What was your first professional performance? (show title, role, venue)

After graduating college, I went to St George, UT to perform for the summer at Tuacahn Center for the Arts. It’s a gorgeous outdoor venue that really has to be seen to be believed. The production I was in? Peter Pan. That show is my first musical both as an amateur and a professional. Talk about full circle.

Is there a particular theatre of which you will be eternally grateful for your development as an Artist?

I would be very ungrateful if I didn’t mention Kathy Brombacher and Moonlight Amphitheatre in Vista, CA. They really allowed me to step out of the ensemble early in my career and play leading roles, some of which I was probably too young for, but were simultaneously dreams come true and opportunities for huge growth and understanding.

Were there any critical reviews which remain expressly memorable? (show title, role, venue, critic, exact quote or other details)

People are so kind and generous, but the truth is I tend to more easily remember negative criticisms. I’m working on that! The best review I’ve ever received, however, came after a performance of Kiss of the Spider Woman at the Welk Theatre in Escondido, CA. I was playing Molina, and it sometimes took me a few minutes to come back to earth after that show. After that particular performance, I got ready and exited from backstage, and the audience had left except for an older couple waiting outside. They waved me down, so I went over, and the husband told me the year before their son had committed suicide, and watching me in that show gave his son back to him for a few hours. I was very moved, and we shared a long hug. In moments when I’m feeling down, that memory is everything.

Where do you live today at this stage in your career?

I strive to do work I’m proud of with kind people I respect. That means, first and foremost, I have to be someone like that. In my experience, you don’t have to be cruel to be talented, but you have to be insecure to be cruel. Theatre is fascinating because opportunities to improve ourselves as humans pop up quickly, in such rapid succession, and in very high pressure situations. There’s nothing like a rehearsal room to help you understand what you need to work on in your life. It’s an incredible chance to better yourself while creating something that, hopefully, brings audiences a lot of joy. Being grateful for that privilege is honest to goodness where I try to live most.

Where are you headed as an artist in the future? (aspirations, goals)

The older I get, the more important I feel it is to push myself creatively both onstage and off. There is so much “burn out” in this business, and I’ve found that to be my cure. I want to continue bouncing around from performing to directing to choreographing, producing, and writing… With that kind of diversity, how could I ever get burned out? It allows me to constantly flex different muscles, both literally and figuratively. More specifically, I love to write, and I have a lot of ideas. My one man show COMFY has been a great introduction to that side of my career, and I’m pretty thirsty to create more. I’m also not afraid of getting older. I look very young, but the last time I did West Side Story (for the third time), it almost killed me.

Fun Stuff:

Example(s) of (a) skill that you possess which is/are far removed from performance arena?

I really love playing tennis. That’s my sport. I can watch Wimbledon all day long

Example(s) of guilty food or drink embarrassment(s)?

I am not embarrassed to say I could eat ice cream every day of my life. And those artisan shops with crazy flavors like lavender chrysanthemum? Sign me up.

How do you keep yourself entertained when boredom knocks at your door?

There is so much to be consumed in this world, if boredom ever sets in, it’s because I need to reset and go somewhere in nature like the mountains or the beach.

Would you do nudity on stage?

I already have!! Yikes. I did a production of The Full Monty years ago. I loved doing that show, and I’m grateful I did it, but at the same time I can’t believe I did it.

Performer(s) past or present that you revere?

SO MANY! Gene Kelly (obviously), Madeline Kahn, pretty much every female comedienne come to think of it… I was rewatching “All About Eve“ last night, so that whole cast. Who else? Chita, Gwen, and Donna… There’s so much talent out there.

Most amusing backstage anecdote(s) that you have witnessed – or, if you care to admit, in which you were a participant – during your performing career (N.B. Reveal names at your own peril).

I used to be annoyed when things would go wrong in a live performance because I wanted everything to be always perfect. But that’s not theatre! Now I live for what makes each performance feel a little bit unique. If you want to see the same show over and over, watch a movie. Once I was doing a production of White Christmas, and unbeknownst to the theatre company, the actual theatre had lubed the fly system because it was squeaking every time the scenery would go in and out. That meant little droplets of silicone had been dropping onto the stage, and when the ensemble made their entrance from backstage for the big opening number, people started falling down like it was White Christmas On Ice. It was hilarious and terrifying and they had to stop the show and clean the stage with Dawn dish soap before we could continue.

Is there a particular role that you wouldn’t mind playing over and over again? (show title, role)

Thankfully I’ve never played a role where I thought, “Well, I never want to do that one again,” so bring them on and bring them back!

Date Interview Submitted: 7/5/19

Bill Reese

Admin tabletostage.com

The post RISING STAR INSIDER INTERVIEW: JEFFREY SCOTT PARSONS appeared first on Table To Stage.

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Rising Star Interview: Cashae Monya

Tell us about your latest project.

I am currently playing “Audrey” in LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS at New Village Arts in Carlsbad, CA.

What was the place of your birth including reference to its influence on your character today?

I was born and raised in San Diego. I love the sun; I don’t ever care to be on Broadway because I hate snow. I am a California girl through and through.

How did your rearing as a child affect the artist you have become today? (parents, siblings, other relatives)

I was raised by my grandmother; she is my soulmate. She has always encouraged my sense of individuality and independence. I have siblings, but it was just me and my grandmother in our home. Not having siblings nearby and being raised by a hard-working single grandmother made me a very imaginative and creative child. I spent a lot of time by myself playing, listening to music, dancing and being in my own world.

What are the specific circumstances surrounding your basic education including preschool, elementary school, secondary school, college, graduate school? What are the major features of the schooling which have prominently affected you today?

I went to a performing arts high school, Coronado School of the Arts, and that’s where I received the majority of my Arts training. I then went on to study Child and Family Development at San Diego State University.

During your basic education, did you cherish a particular teacher? If so, why?

I had many wonderful teachers! My teachers at Bell Jr. High School were particularly influential including the following: Mr. Winn, who would tutor me during lunch when I fell behind in Mathematics; Mr. Essex, the English teacher who made me fall in love with books; and my Drama teacher Mr. Maher, who still comes to see all my shows.

Were there any artistic event(s) from your youth which inspired you to pursue the Arts?

I started doing theatre in high school, so that entire period of my life was the foundation of my artistic inspiration.

What were the particulars of your Arts training adventures that you have pursued in order to achieve excellence? (theatre, music, dance)

The majority of my training took place during my high school years. I completed Junior and Senior year at Coronado School of the Arts and performed regularly at San Diego Junior Theatre. I also did summer intensives at the La Jolla Playhouse and the Lyric Opera. I chose not to pursue a degree in the theatre because I was booking acting gigs regularly in college. I wasn’t about to go into debt for an acting degree when I could be paid to gain the experience. I also took voice lessons regularly (five years) with Cris O’Bryon.

Do you have any mentors in the Arts who deserve a special shout out as being outsized influences in your artistic achievement?

Absolutely! Pam Wagner has been an outstanding mentor. She funded the theatre program at Bell Junior High School. I’ve known her since I was 14 and she has continued to support my career.

On a personal level, other than original family who shaped your character, do you wish to single out any individual(s) who have shaped your character in wonderful ways? (loves, friendships)

My husband Matthew. He’s the perfect partner and we make an incredible team.

On your road to financial stability, without reference to Arts remuneration, was/were there any job(s) that have been particularly rewarding along the way?

Nope. I am a horrible employee when it comes to regular jobs. I was a preschool teacher for two and a half years and that experience made me realize performing was truly where my whole hearts was. Luckily, my husband makes good money, so I can afford to pursue an acting career full-time.

What was your very first role on any stage? (show title, role)

I believe my first role was in an elementary school play about Martin Luther King’s life. I played a jail guard.

What was/were your most rewarding amateur role(s) during your schooling? (show title, role)

My first musical performance was as the “Fairy Godmother” in CINDERELLA.

What was your first role outside of the school “umbrella”? (community) (show title, role, venue)

ANTON IN SHOW BUSINESS, “T-Anne”, Sixth at Penn

What was your first professional performance? (show title, role, venue)

ANTON IN SHOW BUSINESS, “T-Anne”, Sixth at Penn

List any “go to” songs and monologues that you have used during auditions in the past?

George C Wolfe’s THE COLORED MUSEUM

Julia Jordan’s  SMOKING LESSON

Is there a particular theatre of which you will be eternally grateful for your development as an Artist?

Moxie Theatre and the La Jolla Playhouse

What was/were your past performance(s) which now you regard as most artistically satisfying to you? (show title, role, venue)

There are a few but I just closed, HEDWIG AND THE ANGRY INCH and I’m still not over how incredible that production was and its impact on the community as well.

Do you have any role(s) that your heart yearns to play in the future?

I want to play a person eating a Dorito in a Super Bowl commercial!

More than anything else, what recommends your character?

Living life happily.

Where are you headed as an artist in the future? (aspirations, goals)

I have an agent in LA and I have been pursuing more commercial/film opportunities. Hoping to book a Super Bowl commercial and make millions of dollars, so my husband and I can retire and travel! 

 Fun Stuff:

Sing in the shower or bathtub?

Constantly singing. Everywhere.

Example(s) of (a) skill that you possess which is/are far removed from performance arena?

I’m really good at remembering names.

Food and drink regular preferences?

French Fries

Example(s) of guilty food or drink embarrassment(s)?

Keebler’s Strawberry Wafers

How do you keep yourself entertained when boredom knocks at your door?

Social Media

Would you do nudity on stage?

Been there, done that. It was very liberating!

Which person(s) in the news make(s) you grind your teeth?

Donald Trump and the people who support him.

Do you have a regular sleep regimen?

floss/brush

Performer(s) past or present that you revere?

Lucille Ball, Whitney Houston, Beyonce

What is/are your asset(s) which allow you to claw your way out of the occasional quagmire of a depressive mental state? (if any)

Yoga, Talking to my husband, Dancing, Reading. I’m a naturally upbeat person and I’m resilient.

Do you have a social “cause” for which you are passionate?

LGBTQ, Championing people of color

Middle Name(s)?

Monya

Color which captures your essential nature?

Yellow

Temper (tantrum or variation otherwise)?

I rarely lose my temper, but road rage is a thing. Also, when I’m hungry.

Most ridiculous costume(s) you have ever worn onstage?

The dress I wear during “Suddenly Seymour” in LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS is fairly ridiculous.

Is there a personal vice which you have no problem revealing to others?

I talk before I think. And I’m loud.

Flattering or unflattering nickname(s)?

“Cash”, “Lil”

From your perspective, the trials and tribulations of the performing life?

Being broke, never having availability on the weekends, not being able to plan trips or attend weddings because you’re in a show, losing your sense of self because you spend so much time being other people

Do you have any recommendations for other performers about how to stay healthy during the run of a show? Or, if temporarily “under the weather”, how to deal with vocal issues and/or physical vitality concerns?)

daily exercise, staying hydrated, oil of oregano, allergy pills, vitamins, humidifier

Date Interview Submitted: May 29, 2019

Bill Reese

Admin tabletostage.com

The post RISING STAR INSIDER INTERVIEW: CASHAE MONYA appeared first on Table To Stage.

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Rising Star Interview: Kristin Towers-Rowles

Tell us about your latest project.

I am currently directing the Los Angeles Premiere of a wonderful comedy written by Playwright Cricket Daniels: THE LOST VIRGINITY TOUR. It is a great piece about women in their Golden Years, who take a road trip to where they began their adult journeys. What starts off as a fun tour turns into a healing, bonding trip of a lifetime. I am working with fantastic actresses Joy Rinaldi, Toni Perrotta, Madonna Young Magee and Paulette Dozier. The show runs April 13th-May 5th at McCadden Place Theatre in Hollywood – tix are available at: https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/4191014

Do you have any stage solo shows at present or in the works?

My multi-award-winning solo show is A LOVELY LINEAGE, about growing up the Granddaughter of MGM Film Star, Kathryn Grayson.

The show began in 2011 at Sterling’s at Vitello’s and I have done it all over Southern California and Oregon.

I will next be performing the show at Coachella Valley Rep in Palm Desert as part of their  Cabaret Series July 28th, 2 PM, 2019 www.cvrep.org

Is there a one night event in the near future you wish to share?

On Monday April 8th, I will be one of 3 soloists at the 50th Anniversary Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle Awards at the Pasadena Playhouse.

Musically Directed by Christopher Raymond

https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/4076176

Also, I am participating in 2 readings in April: (1) DEADLY (Book & Lyrics by Vanessa Stewart, Music by Ryan Johnson at Sacred Fools Co.) and (2) KISS ME QUICK (written by Kelly Brighton)

What was the place of your birth including reference to its influence on your character today?

I was born and raised in LA…but I am a weirdo. Even though I was surrounded by, and my entire family made their living in the film business, I have only ever felt at home on the stage.

Were there any changes of residence and/or  other disruptions, blessings which impacted you significantly during your youth?

I grew up in LA until I was 14 and then went to live with my grandfather and his wife in Florida. That began a chain of brokenness for me. At 15, I moved back to LA and my mother left our home and didn’t come back for 6 years. My father worked very hard to try to raise my brother and me on his own. I left at 19 for Conservatory in NYC and never went back.

How did your rearing as a child affect the artist you have become today? (parents, siblings, other relatives)

I grew up with a working actor for a father. He did commercials, TV, film, voice-over, theatre…his work ethic and lack of ego was my example. It has kept me working hard and continually being grateful for each and every job I have been blessed with.

What are the specific circumstances surrounding your basic education including preschool, elementary school, secondary school, college, graduate school? What are the major features of the schooling which have prominently affected you today?

I was so lucky to go to Hollywood High Performing Arts and then AMDA (The American Musical and Dramatic Academy) in NYC – those two schools helped me focus and develop as an actress, singer and dancer. I am particularly grateful for my time in NYC which I truly consider the best time of my youth. I learned so much in 2 years and made lifelong friends I still have to this day. My education at AMDA and the amazing teachers I had are why I am still a working actress 2.5 decades later.

Please share one or two stories from your basic educational experiences which could explain to others your essential nature?

Because of my upbringing in the biz and my Conservatory education, I am always ultra- prepared. I am sometimes focused to a fault…many people have said that they have learned a lot working with me.I just follow the lead of the amazing pros I trained under and have been honored to work with over the years.

During your basic education, did you cherish a particular teacher? If so, why?

While training in NYC, I studied under Randolph Pearson…he was a no nonsense kind of guy and he taught me so much about being specific in my choices and 100% committed. He taught about being off book and the importance of knowing your lines asap so that you can then begin acting. That is some serious truth.

Were there any artistic event(s) from your youth which inspired you to pursue the Arts?

I always performed – it was our family business. But I think the most eye opening moment for me was singing “My Man” from Showboat in the show Broadway Melody at Hollywood High School and having many pros in the audience say to me that I had “It” – I was 16 and had no idea what that meant, but I knew that I needed to follow that fire in my belly and keep going, no matter what.

At what point did you recognize that you possessed a special talent which might allow you to pursue a life in the Arts?

My senior year in High School at Hollywood High, I won “Best Actress” and I knew then that I was going to pursue this life. I had no real support (financial or otherwise) and recognized I would be doing it alone, but I knew I had to do it. I guess in many ways, I was lucky I didn’t come from a “normal” family…I had no fear.

What were the particulars of your Arts training adventures that you have pursued in order to achieve excellence? (theatre, music, dance)

After studying at AMDA in NYC, I moved back to LA and began really pounding the pavement. I joined SAG/AFTRA, AGVA and Actors Equity.

Do you have any mentors in the Arts who deserve a special shout out as being outsized influences in your artistic achievement?

I am strange in that I live in LA, but I am really a theatre girl. I have a few women I look to as amazing examples: Kelli O’Hara, Audra McDonald, Megan Hilty, Faith Prince..all amazing ladies of the stage who have done both comedy and drama and crossed over to Film/TV. They are all as good actresses as they are singers.

On a personal level, other than original family who shaped your character, do you wish to single out any individual(s) who have shaped your character in wonderful ways? (loves, friendships)

I am so lucky to have an amazing partner, my husband, Ryan Rowles and my 3 beautiful daughters – Ryanna (14), Makayla (13) and Amelya (11) – they keep me going. I know that they are watching me and it keeps me moving forward. Also, I have an amazing dad who is my acting mentor, Robert Towers.

On your road to financial stability, without reference to Arts remuneration, was/were there any job(s) that have been particularly rewarding along the way?

I wish I could say that I’ve had “financial stability” – but in our business, it is often feast or famine. I have been lucky to have completed  7 National Tours, to have worked on cruise ships, to have done revues in Europe and Asia, to have performed  Theatre for Young Audiences for a couple of long contracts…but really, there is no long-term paying theatre work in LA – it just doesn’t exist, outside of theme park work.

What was your very first role on any stage? (show title, role)

My first true “role” onstage was playing “The Lion” in Aesop’s Fables. It was my first in a long line of feisty roles. I had no idea I was looking at my future

What was/were your most rewarding amateur role(s) during your schooling? (show title, role)

My most rewarding role at school was playing “Daisy Mae” in Li’l Abner my senior year of high school. I had grown up seeing my dad play “Pappy Yokum” in pro productions, so I felt super special to be playing Daisy. Plus, she was the “Pretty Girl” and I had not really seen myself that way…it was eye opening that I was being cast that way. It was the beginning of me understanding my “type”

What are the earliest songs that you remember singing (if any)? (title, composer, lyricist)

As a tween and early teen, I was in a performing group called “Kids of the Century” and I got to sing “That’s What Friends Are For” – it was my first big solo and I really found that I had a voice.

Do you remember any personal performing disasters during your schooling?

In elementary school, I was singing “Be a Clown” from“Singin’ In The Rain” and my wig flew off. I had no real training at that point but my instincts were great, and I actually buttoned the song by putting the wig back on. I got a standing ovation. Later in my professional life, I had another wig disaster playing “Cinderella” in INTO THE WOODS and I got the best hand in the show ad-libbing my way thru that. Sometimes those “disasters” wind up being blessings

What was your first role outside of the school “umbrella”? (community) (show title, role, venue)

My first show out of college was H.M.S Pinafore at a non-union great theatre here in LA. I understudied the lead and had a weekend as the role and the following year I booked a National Tour of the same show/role. I will always be so grateful to have had that experience as “Josephine”.

What was your first professional performance? (show title, role, venue)

My first truly pro gig was when I was 12 at LA Opera at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion at The Music Center in LA. I worked with Opera Berlin there and played an “Angel” in Die Tote Stadt. I also did voice-over and commercials growing up…but LA Opera was my first pro stage gig.

List any “go to” songs and monologues that you have used during auditions in the past?

My “go to” songs are “Vanilla Ice Cream” from She Loves Me for Soprano and “I Got Lost in His Arms” from Annie Get Your Gun for Mezzo. Monologues are “Rose Ritz” from I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change and “Emilia” from Othello.

Is there a particular theatre of which you will be eternally grateful for your development as an artist?

I have been so lucky to work at many theatres…one that has really been instrumental is the El Portal in Noho. I starred in the LA Premieres of both TARZAN and VIOLET there. I also directed THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE and SWEENEY TODD there – all with Kelrik Productions.

Were there any critical reviews which remain expressly memorable? (show title, role, venue, critic, exact quote or other details)

I take reviews with a grain of salt, honestly. I mostly have gotten amazing reviews for my work, but sometimes I have been in shows that have been critically reviewed and not that person’s cup of tea. As the saying goes, “You can be the sweetest peach but not everyone likes peaches.”

What was/were your past performance(s) which now you regard as most artistically satisfying to you? (show title, role, venue)

I think my most satisfying role I’ve ever played was playing “Violet” in the Jeanine Tesori musical VIOLET. In 2001, I played “Young Violet” at Sierra Rep and then in 2015, I played “Older Violet”. It was a full circle, cathartic, life changing role. I have no words for what it meant to me.

Do you have any role(s) that your heart yearns to play in the future?

My heart aches to play “Francesca” in THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY. It is the perfect role for me at my age and for my voice. I am GOING to play that role.

Name one professional performance which embodies a personal regret in your own artistic achievement? (show title, role, venue)

A huge regret is that I didn’t attend a callback to play “Martha Jefferson” in the National Tour of 1776 (my dad booked the show and toured with it for over a year). I didn’t go to the callback because I flew to see my ex open in a show. A huge “What If” I have lived with for years.

More than anything else, what recommends your character?

As I have been in this business for more than 30 years, I have been through a lot of cattiness and mean behavior directed at me…so I make it my mission to not be a gossip and to treat everyone the way I want to be treated. I try to be an influence at auditions, when I direct and in all work situations.

Where do you live today at this stage in your career?

I currently live in Los Angeles, where I work as an actress, director, singer, dancer and coach.

Where are you headed as an artist in the future? (aspirations, goals)

Looking to the future, as I get older, I want to keep representing women of all ages on stage. So many women sort of “disappear” in stories and I want to make sure that women in their 40’s, 50’s and beyond have their stories told. I hope to be able to have my theatre company, Sustaining Sound, start up again and choose material that shows a different side of women as they age. They are the heart and soul of society and yet most of what we see are women in their early 20’s, before they’ve really lived. Older women have so much to offer while older men are always revered. It should be no different with women!

Fun Stuff:

Example(s) of your goofy or unexpected behavior?

My husband and I have a very funny and strange language all our own. We have spoken in strange tones and words since we were dating. It keeps things light, especially with 3 teens in the house!!

Example(s) of distinctive performance-related physical prowess?

People say that I am a Force To Be Reckoned With onstage. I am 5 ft tall and don’t weigh much, but I am huge presence; that mostly has been a blessing, but is something I’ve had to check A LOT in intimate theatre. I don’t think of myself as small and when I get offstage most people are shocked at how petite I am.

Color(s) that you like to wear?

I am a redhead and along the way I have always heard that redheads look best in Emerald Green  – it is so true. I wear green for all of my concerts…it’s my thing

Casual “go to” dress in public and around the house?

I am not a fancy person offstage. I am a jeans, boots, t-shirt, sweater gal. I am pretty “Mom”-looking outside of the theatre.

Sing in the shower or bathtub?

I live in 1100 sq ft with 4 other people – I can’t sing in the shower because I will either wake someone up or bug them

A secret that you only have revealed to no more than one person that you now are confident enough to share with others?

I am now able to talk about my #metoo moments. They began as a young girl with an extended family member. They shaped my entire life. I now talk about them because it is important to add my voice to the very important national conversation. I truly don’t have a single female friend who doesn’t have a #metoo moment or many, many moments.

Example(s) of (a) skill that you possess which is/are far removed from performance arena?

I am a chef!  I am also a nutritionist. Food and healthy eating are my other passion. I have lost 80 lbs since my youngest daughter was born and I have helped others do the same. I have some college classes towards becoming a registered dietitian.

Food and drink regular preferences?

I am a very healthy eater…whole foods all the way. Not a fan of sweets, but I am a huge fan of vodka Love dark chocolate, red wine, coffee, sushi, Thai food, Vietnamese and I have a serious addiction to glass noodles.

Example(s) of guilty food or drink embarrassment(s)?

I am a Kombucha addict. It really helps with digestion but it’s trendy, so it’s a bit annoying.

How do you keep yourself entertained when boredom knocks at your door?

I have not a second of boredom since I went back to acting 10 years ago in 2009. I have 2 adopted dogs and if I have a moment of downtime, I play with them and they restore me

Word(s) that you despise?

“Moist” is the worst word in the English language. My daughter, Makayla, has also turned me onto hating the word “ointment”. I can’t say it without laughing now.

“Go to” favorite word(s) or phrase(s)?

My favorite word is” empowerment”. My favorite phrase is “female empowerment”.

Would you do nudity on stage?

The question is not would I do nudity onstage; instead, the question is would anyone want to put a mother of 3 nude on a stage???

Which person(s) in the news make(s) you grind your teeth?

I am sad to say that most of the news makes me grind my teeth these days and if you know me, even casually, you know that our current president is just about my least favorite human in the world.

Do you have a regular sleep regimen?

Sleep?  Hahahaha…but seriously, I am a terrible sleeper. Chronic insomnia. I steal sleep whenever my body allows…which isn’t often. My dogs snuggle in my bed and that is very helpful.

Performer(s) past or present that you revere?

I love Barbara Cook and Kelly O’Hara. I also absolutely LOVED Marin Mazzie and miss her. We were friends on Facebook and she was such an amazing light.

Is there a famous performer whom you consider to be most like you?

I look up to people for their character, not just their talents and abilities. I love Elizabeth Warren for her amazing leadership. I love my friend Barbara Brownell for her kindness and sunny disposition. But mostly, I look up to my daughter, Ryanna, for her focus and hard work. I’ve never seen a kid like her.

What is/are your asset(s) which allow you to claw your way out of the occasional quagmire of a depressive mental state? (if any)

This business can be depressing – I’ve had a lot of Highs but of course there have been lows…I love walking. I wear a Fitbit and will go for a walk to feel as if I am outside living my life in this beautiful city. It helps raise my mood.

Do you have a social “cause” for which you are passionate?

I am a big social justice advocate – I believe in equality for all and keeping anyone’s religion out of our laws. I support the ACLU and Southern Poverty Law Center. I support Women in the Arts. I also am and will always be a huge advocate for 99 seat theatre in LA.

Middle name(s)?

“Elizabeth” (like my grandmother, Kathryn Grayson, and my daughter Amelya).

Color which captures your essential nature?

I love green, not just to wear, but for the fact that it is both rich and bright…it can be very deep but there is always color…

Temper (tantrum or variation otherwise)?

Oh, I have a temper…I’m a redhead. Because I love justice, I lose it when I feel things are unfair (like a 2 faced friend or a tyrannical government) If I am being condescended to, I have been known to raise my voice and say some things.

Example(s) of a time in your life when you were totally humiliated?

I gave birth to my daughters at UCLA (which is a teaching hospital) In my 2nd labor, I looked up to 10 men with clipboards looking at all my business…that was weird.

Most ridiculous costume(s) you have ever worn onstage?

My most ridiculous costume was absolutely playing “Junior Asparagus” in the National Tour of Veggie Tales. I was in the costume and puppeteered from inside. It was inflatable…it was heavy, awkward, claustrophobic and weighed like 75 lbs….I did the show for 5 months…not my fav.

Flattering or unflattering nickname(s)?

Growing up I was “Kristi”. My mother called me “Kristi Beth”.

Most amusing backstage anecdote(s) that you have witnessed – or, if you care to admit, in which you were a participant – during your performing career (N.B. Reveal names at your own peril).

My friend Gail Matthias and I did the musical BABY together and I have a picture of us laughing our butts off on our backs like turtles. She used to be on SNL and she is one of the funniest people I know.

From your perspective, the trials and tribulations of the performing life?

Right now is a very hard time for union actors…most commercials being shot are non- union and most theatres in LA that were AEA are either all non-union now or closed. It’s very sad. Being union is a hindrance and it’s a very sad state of things when those of us who have worked our whole lives to be union can’t get onstage in our hometown. This is the thing that most depresses me.

Is there a particular role that you wouldn’t mind playing over and over again? (show title, role)

I could play “Princess Winifred” from ONCE UPON A MATTRESS forever. I hope I get the chance to play her again.

Do you have any recommendations for other performers about how to stay healthy during the run of a show? Or, if temporarily “under the weather”, how to deal with vocal issues and/or physical vitality concerns?

Staying healthy – go home and sleep. Don’t go out till 5 am and party every night. Your body is your business. Treat it as such.

Anything else about yourself that you wish to share?

I want to change the world by approaching the stage as the world’s greatest secular church. Whether I am acting, singing or directing, I want to make great theatre that literally changes the world as only the theatre can do.

Also…

*Kristin Towers-Rowles*

SAG-AFTRA, AEA, AGVA

http://www.kristintowers-rowles.com

http://www.facebook.com/KristinTowersRowles

http://www.twitter.com/ktrowles

Date Interview Submitted:

March 23,2019

Place of Interview:

Coral Tree Cafe in Encino, CA (w/follow-up reflection)

Bill Reese

Admin/tabletostage.com

The post RISING STAR INSIDER INTERVIEW: KRISTIN TOWERS-ROWLES appeared first on Table To Stage.