Meet Celeste Margot Riddle, Starring as Pilar in “Legally Blonde the Musical.”

Celeste Margot Riddle

 

Q: Where did you grow up? Were there any activities you did as a child that led to your passion for theatre and the arts?
A: I grew up all over the south, my father is a pastor so we moved around quite a bit. Ever since a young age I’d sing in the church choruses and when I got a little older I’d audition for the musicals that each school had. That’s where this crazy obsession with theatre all began.

 

Q: Where did you study theatre?
A: I’m currently at the College of Charleston studying theatre performance and scenic design.

 

Q: Where have you worked previously? What are some of your favorite roles?
A: I’ve worked at the College of Charleston and the Charleston Actor’s Studio with Sheri Grace Productions.

My absolute favorite role I’ve played is May from Last Train to Nibroc by Arlene Hutton. She was so challenging for me because it was a character that was so close in age and background. It forced me to find a different person within myself in order to play someone who grew up very similar to how I did.

 

Q: How did you prepare for playing the role of Pilar? Were there any challenges or things that you were excited about with taking on this character?
A: Preparing for a role is always an experience. For this role in particular I had to do a little bit of background story work. I had to figure out every relationship I had with all the girls in Delta Nu, especially Elle.  Everyone in this cast is so phenomenal and friendly so the actual friendships that are the foundation for the character came naturally.

I was a little nervous when I was offered the role because it is the most modern character I’ve ever had the opportunity to play. Plus, Pilar is super sassy. (Sassy is the last word anyone would use to describe me.) So I was very excited to try things that had a little bit more flare than I could pull off in everyday life.

 

Q: You’ve been in performances for the past two weeks… what do you look forward to each performance playing Pilar?
A: I always love the court room scene in the second act. It is my favourite because Lauren, Arielle and I get to play around with our characters while the trial is going on. We are snapping, dancing or trying to get Paulette’s attention in the craziest way possible. It gives us a little bit of time to show our vivaciousness compared to the composed law students. It offers a really neat dynamic to the environment. I think all three of us dive head first every night into our characters and truly enjoy watching Elle, played by Vanessa, win the case.  It’s always exciting to perform with those girls.

 

Q: What do you do in your spare time?
A: Spare time, that’s a foreign concept for me. I tend to take advantage of any opportunity I can, so I keep pretty busy. But when I do get a little time I take my dog, Brother, out for a run. On on some Sundays that I don’t have a show some of my close friends and I all cook a whole lot of food and have “family” dinners. I look forward to those days because that’s when we all relax, laugh and enjoy each others company. Whether I’m running between meetings and rehearsals or designing a show I am always excited for whats to come!

 

Front Center: Celeste Margot Riddle as Pilar in "Legally Blonde the Musical."

 

Front Right: Celeste Margot Riddle as Pilar in "Legally Blonde the Musical."