TABLE TO STAGE BLOG
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RISING STAR: ZACKARY SCOT WOLFE
What was the place of your birth with reference to its influence on the artist you have become today?
I was born right here in San Diego CA. Growing up here obsessed with the surf/rock ‘n’ roll culture of Southern CA which has had a major influence on me… from choosing the projects I’d like to be involved with, to learning how to sing from the Beach Boys high falsetto.
Were there any changes of residence and/or other disruptions, blessings which impacted you significantly during your youth?
Nope. We stayed around SD county my entire childhood. I suppose that could be significant, so as to have a steady friend group and familiarity.
How did your rearing as a child affect the artist you have become today? (parents, siblings, other relatives)
As a family we communicated very openly and honestly (maybe too much, ha), and we always looked at each other in the eye. I try my best to use these things every time I step on stage.
What were the specific circumstances surrounding your basic education including preschool, elementary school, secondary school, college, graduate school? What were the major features of the schooling which have prominently affected you today?
I actually didn’t go to college, nor have I taken classes (voice/dance/acting, etc.). I just “kinda” started doing it. I see the major value in going to school; it’s just not for me. However, I think it is time to sign up for a few voice lessons, or dance classes…couldn’t hurt right?!
Was/Were there any artistic event(s) from your youth which inspired you to pursue the Arts?
My family was involved with CYT (Christian Youth Theater) growing up. Through that community, and my friend group, the participants really encouraged and inspired one another to be fearless, and go for it whether it be musicals, film, plays, crew, or production. I – of course – landed on the stage.
Do you have any mentors in the Arts who deserve a special shout out as being out-sized influences in your artistic achievement?
I have had a lot of help along the way. Many San Diego veteran performers have been so kind to me, with encouragement, guidance , and really walked me through season to season. The list can go on and on, but Allison Sprat Pierce, Jon Lorenz, Colleen Kollar Smith and Craig Campbell have helped me more than they know.
On a personal level, other than original family who influenced your character, do you wish to single out any individual(s) who have shaped your character in wonderful ways? (loves, friendships)
The San Diego Theater Community is amazing. I am so very blessed to have met artist during a show, audition, workshop that now are my actual life long friends. They know who they are. I would however like to give a shout out to my bestie Jonathan Sangster. Throughout the years, I don’t think there has been anyone who has pushed me, encouraged me, yelled at me, or loved me more. Love you!
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?
One of my favorite jobs ive had while performing was I played “Biff”, the host of the Sea Lion and Otter Show at Sea World San Diego. It was an improv/dance/singing hybrid of a comedic character and it was a blast. I played the part year round for about 5 years. In my estimation I must’ve done around 6,000 shows, and every single one was differ’nt LOL
What was your very first role on any stage? (show title, role)
“Munchkin #2” in the Wizard of Oz. I was 10 years old, and thought I was so cool because they gave me fake sideburns.
What was/were your most rewarding amateur role(s) during your schooling? (show title, role)
Growing up I’ve always been not so secretly obsessed with Peter Pan for as long as I can remember. I had the opportunity to play “Peter” in Peter Pan….I thought I had died and gone to heaven.
What are the earliest songs that you remember singing (if any)? (title, composer, lyricist)
My favorite childhood bangers were the following:
“Distant Lullaby” – Peter Pan
“Can You Feel the Love Tonight?” – The Lion King
“Edelweiss” – The Sound of Music
What was your first professional performance? (show title, role, venue)
After high school I took a long break from performing and traveled the world. Honestly, I had no intention of performing again. A friend of mine, J. Scott Lapp (who is now a very successful director), asked if I would attend callbacks for “Mark” for a production of Rent he was doing. After doing that show, with that cast and crew, I was HOOKED again.
List any “go to” songs and monologues that you have used during auditions in the past.
I try to change it up to be show appropriate. However, I do have a couple of go-to’s.
Song: “Babe”-Styx
Monologue(s): “Elder Price” Orlando Monologue – Book of Mormon , and Oprah‘s Weight Watchers commercial “ I LOVE BREAD, I EAT BREAD EVERYDAY…”
Is there a particular theatre of which you will be eternally grateful for your development as an artist?
I would be remiss if I didn’t take a second to thank New Village Arts for always giving me a home over the years, and truly allowing me to “fly free” and make choices.
Were there any critical reviews which remain expressly memorable? (show title, role, venue, critic, exact quote or other details)
They all have been very memorable. I have been truly blessed over the past couple years to receive very nice, uplifting mentions on reviews from the San Diego Critics Circle, blogs, or even a personal Facebook message. Thank you all; it means the world.
What was/were your past performance(s) which now you regard as most artistically satisfying to you? (show title, role, venue)
This is the hardest question! Each part is a new challenge, which is exciting. Recently two stand out for different reasons.
“Princeton”/ “Rod” – Avenue Q (NVA) – I had never worked with puppets before, so of course that had been the immediate challenge. However, once that became more comfortable, the artisitically satisfying aspect was finding the story arcs and heart of these extremely different potty- mouthed characters.
“Franz” – Rock of Ages (Cygnet Theatre) – I loved playing this guy. It is different from anything I’d done previously given the body language, German accent, vocalizations, Jazzercise… lol. I am happy with the way the character read, but I will say I was nervous accepting the role…I’m so glad I did.
Do you have any role(s) that your heart yearns to play in the future?
“Yearns” is a stretch. I don’t think I have anything specific in mind. However, I’d love to play a little more with the dramatic side of theater. I love comedy so much, but it might be a fun new challenge to bring on the tears!
Fun Stuff:
Color(s) that you like to wear?
I like to wear black, or white, but really it’s because I’m color-blind, and those colors always match each other lol
Casual “go to” dress in public and around the house?
I have a leopard-print caftan that my buddy Rachel Tate gave me….sometimes I’ll wear it in public.
Example(s) of (a) skill(s) that you possess which is/are far removed from the performance arena?
I love to surf and skate. I’ll often try to do one or both before two show Saturdays , or even between shows if I can.
Food and drink regular preferences?
COFFEE. A cold brew will always make me feel better.
Example(s) of guilty food or drink embarrassment(s)?
Taco Bell…actually, I’m not guilty of that; I’m proud. LIVE MAS BABY!
“Go to” favorite word(s) or phrase(s)?
“That’s show biz bb!”
“Who’s to say?”
Would you do nudity on stage?
I wouldn’t have a problem with it at all. Hopefully I’m tan then.
Which person(s) in the news make(s) you grind your teeth?
LOL If you don’t know, I don’t know.
Do you have a regular sleep regimen?
I’m a horrible sleeper. So if I get a good four hours a night, I’m super-pumped.
Do you have a social “cause” for which you are passionate?
I’d do anything for our LGBTQ brothers and sisters.
Middle name(s)?
Scot
Most ridiculous costume(s) you have ever worn onstage?
A neon spandex Jazzercise outfit with a rip-away suit reveal.
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 can be a bit of a prankster. I don’t have a “go to”, but I do prank a lot. I will say… I will only prank when its not distracting or harmful to the run or performance.
Is there a particular role that you wouldn’t mind playing over and over again? (show title, role)
“Mark” – Rent
I could play him forever; I love his heart and mind.
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”, do you have any suggestion(s) about how to deal with vocal issues and/or physical vitality concerns?
Just take care of yourself mentally. If you need to sit in the park, go. Read a book… read. In my opinion (especially during a long run) those little things you can do for your happiness are most important. Oh… and drink water lol
Upcoming gig(s) (if known)?
I have a few things in the works, but can’t say just yet …. Stay tuned! Here’s one: I will be doing A Christmas Carol at Cygnet Theatre as the “Male Swing“this holiday season.
Solo project in the works (if any)?
It’s not really “Solo” , but come see a full concert version of The Toxic Avenger at New Village Arts with me and San Diego‘s best!
Anything else about yourself that you wish to share?
I am very very thankful.
Date Interview Submitted: August 27,2019; revised October 23,2019
Bill Reese
Admin (bill@tabletostage.com)
