Jhonika, one of our Season 45 Resident Actors, is performing the character of “Annie,” the stage manager of the play-within-a-play of The Play That Goes Wrong at the Historic Dock Street Theatre. Hear more about her process preparing for “Play” and being an actor with Charleston Stage!
You are a member of our Season 45 Resident Acting Company–welcome to Charleston! What have you enjoyed about the experience so far?
Prior to moving here, I had heard so many great things about Charleston! Everyone talked about the amazing food, the history, and the city’s beauty. I have enjoyed getting to explore around town and meet new people. One of my favorite things has been getting to know everyone in the Charleston Stage Company, especially my fellow Resident Actors. We come from all over the country, so it’s been rewarding to hear about their life experiences, backgrounds, homes and passion for theatre that we all share.
How have you been preparing to play the role of Annie, the stage manager for the show-within-a-show that takes place in “The Play That Goes Wrong?”
While I have never stage managed a show before, I have experienced working backstage and handling things going wrong in productions I’ve worked on! It’s been relatively easy to channel Annie’s mentality of making sure things go well and fixing mistakes backstage. However, without spoiling what happens, it’s definitely been fun exploring the “show must go on” mentality stage managers have to have.
This show is very technically and physically challenging–you and your fellow actors have to coordinate so many tricks, falls and mishaps. What has been the most difficult aspect of rehearsals for you? What has come more naturally?
Because this is a show with many tricks and mishaps, it’s been very important for us to block our movements and memorize our lines very quickly so that we can have plenty of time to work out the purposeful “mistakes.” I feel like it will be an adjustment once we add those elements on stage, but it will also be very exciting to do so!
Surprisingly, understanding the context of the show-within-a-show has come more naturally than I thought it would. When I first heard about the show it sounded a little confusing, but after reading through it a few times I was able to grasp the concept and the characters’ motives.
What are your standard pre-show routines as you get ready to perform?
Warm-ups, warm-ups, and more warm-ups! Before shows I always try to do some cardio or a body warm-up to make sure I am physically ready for performances. Along with doing vocal warm-ups, you can catch me with a cup of tea in one hand and my water bottle in the other. Once I’m at the theatre getting ready, I always listen to my pre-show playlist with all of my favorite songs!
What is your favorite show of all time?
It’s definitely Once on This Island! I discovered the show when I was in high school and immediately loved it. Not only is the story one of my favorites, but the music is what truly gives it life and makes it beautiful. I cannot wait for our production of it in the spring!
Jhonika is thrilled to be joining Charleston Stage as a Resident Actor! Originally from Maryland, she spent most of her life in Arkansas where she graduated from Ouachita Baptist University and received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre. Her favorite roles include: Wendla (Spring Awakening), Cairo (We Are the Tigers), Woman 1 (Songs for a New World), Grizabella (Cats), and Yertle the Turtle (Seussical the Musical). Sending all the love to her incredible family and friends for their endless support, “This one is for you!” To keep up with all things Jhonika, you can visit her Instagram: @jhonikaaaa