Q) You are no stranger to the Dock Street Theatre stage. What are a few of your favorite past roles that you’ve performed with Charleston Stage?
I’ve been working with Charleston Stage for 7 seasons now, my first being in 2011 as a Resident Actor. Some of my favorite past roles have been Princeton/Rod in the 2012 production of Avenue Q, Franz in The Producers, Eddie in Shear Madness, and Scuttle in The Little Mermaid.
Q) What is your role in Mamma Mia and what do you like most about your character?
I play the role of Bill Austin, one of Sophie’s “Maybe Dads.” I like to describe him as the “fun dad” – he’s a writer, an adventurer, and isn’t afraid of have a good time!
Q) What drew you to performing in Mamma Mia?
To be honest, I was never in to the original ABBA music. But 10 years ago I was on tour with a theatre group and we happened in to Las Vegas for a few days. I pulled $20 out of my bank account and told myself that was all I was able to gamble. I ended up winning $100 and decided to buy a second row seat to the production of Mamma Mia playing there. It was an absolute blast! All I remember was having a great time and enjoying every moment. So when the opportunity arose to be in the show here at Charleston Stage, I didn’t even think twice.
Q) What are you most excited about that audiences will experience with Charleston Stage’s production of Mamma Mia?
The band is absolutely STELLAR! Sam Henderson, our Resident Music Director and Director of Music Education, has put together an amazing group. From the Overture to the Exit Music, I’m completely enthralled with every sound that comes from the pit.
Q) Share a little bit about yourself.
My husband Ryan (playing Harry Bright) and I live in West Ashley with our amazing family of three cats – Hermes, Apollo, and Gypsy. I’ve been a theatre teacher for the Charleston County School District for the past 5 years, and just started this year at Cario Middle School.
Q) What’s up next for you? Will you be performing in another role with Charleston Stage or outside of the company?
Later this season I’ll be playing Cogsworth in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, and I’ll also be appearing in Vanity Fair at the Woolfe Street Playhouse this winter.
Final Performance is tonight (Sept. 23) at 7:30pm at the Historic Dock Street Theatre. Ticket sales available in person at the Box Office.
