Q: You are playing the iconic role of George. Please discuss the challenges/rewards of performing this character and what are you hoping audiences will take away from your performance?
A: George is a very multi-faceted character. He can be seen as short-tempered and mean, but considering the fact that he took care of a person with special needs (before we really knew what this was), unrelated to him, is kind of remarkable. He is a very kind person, deep down, and he really wants what’s best for Lennie and himself. He wants a place of their own, for his own reasons, of course, but if they did have a place to themselves, he wouldn’t have to worry about public perception of Lennie. No one could fire them. They could live a simple life. I think a challenge is letting George’s compassion for misfits shine through his hard exterior. Also, his struggle with the “final decision” about Lennie is quite a challenge. How do you put down a horse that’s sick when that horse is a part of you? When you love that horse? You know that horse is suffering and you know the alternative to you peacefully ending its life is much worse. Breaking down his hard exterior and letting the light shine through is the biggest challenge. The greatest reward? Getting to be friends and travel along with Lennie–a pure soul.
Q: Please explain the relationship between George and Lennie. Why do you think this friendship exists and what are the challenges within this duo?
A: George and Lennie are a wonderful pair of opposites bringing out the best in each other. George is pretty sharp, Lennie is not. Lennie is super strong, George simply gets by. In the end, though, they just want a peaceful, simple life. I think they really need each other for balance. George is so serious all the time, but Lennie brings out the “play” in George’s life. George grounds Lennie and keeps him out of trouble. And when Lennie does get in trouble (quite frequently, actually) George is right there to get him out–but scolds Lennie about it anyway. They need each other or life isn’t any fun–it’s just a routine. One might say that Lennie needs George to survive, literally. George needs Lennie’s kindness, purity, and friendship just as much, if not more. Life is really bleak without Lennie. (Probably why there isn’t a sequel.)
Q: Why is “Of Mice and Men” still relevant for audiences to see? How do the words of John Steinbeck and this classic story inspire you?
A: “Of Mice and Men” will always be relevant. Friendship and the bonds that unexpected characters can form are so meaningful, and this story lets you see the good in people. We are in a difficult climate where sometimes being “different” is synonymous with being “bad.” We don’t take the time to understand each other’s differences and love each other in spite of them. We don’t give people second chances as much as we should. We outright judge people by the way they look, or talk, or laugh before really trying to see who that person is and what they stand for. George shouts at Lennie, but keeps Lennie by his side because, even though they’re polar opposites, they’re there for each other. This is a story of love and ultimate sacrifice. It’s simple. It’s beautiful. I think the world can use stories like this and learn from them.
Q: What other roles will you be performing with Charleston Stage this season?
A: I will be Marley and several other characters in “A Christmas Carol.” I will also be directing Steel Magnolias and Number the Stars.
Performances of “Of Mice and Men” run Oct. 17 – Nov. 4 at the Historic Dock Street Theatre. Ticket sales are available online by clicking here.