1. Tell us about yourself:
I have spent over 37 years in the field of education. I have been everything from a teacher to principal to superintendent of schools. For the past 4+ years I have been working as an association executive for two groups. My role is to provide professional development to administrators across Michigan. This includes planning conferences, workshops, and online experiences. My wife Lisa and I have a blended family which includes four adult boys. None are married at this time and we don’t have grandchildren yet. Each have a strong interest in the arts. All are musicians. Three are percussionist and one was a saxophone/piano player. In fact, when he went to MSU, he was a keyboard player in their jazz program. Even though none are ‘professional’ with the arts, they still stay involved.
I have spent over 37 years in the field of education. I have been everything from a teacher to principal to superintendent of schools. For the past 4+ years I have been working as an association executive for two groups. My role is to provide professional development to administrators across Michigan. This includes planning conferences, workshops, and online experiences. My wife Lisa and I have a blended family which includes four adult boys. None are married at this time and we don’t have grandchildren yet. Each have a strong interest in the arts. All are musicians. Three are percussionist and one was a saxophone/piano player. In fact, when he went to MSU, he was a keyboard player in their jazz program. Even though none are ‘professional’ with the arts, they still stay involved.
I discovered theater as an adult and was in my first show when I was 30, God’s Favorite. I did the same show two years ago, but played the father part this time. Since that first show I have been involved on or off stage in over 40 productions. It is a part of me that keeps me energized and youthful in thought.
2. Why did you pick "Fiddler" to direct?
Fiddler is one of my all time favorite shows. I was also in a production in Hartland, Michigan long ago playing Motel. LCP, as part of their 80th season asked me if I would direct this show. I believe this will be the third time it has been done by this group.
3. What is the biggest challenge and the biggest joy for you about directing.
The biggest challenge is making sure that people who commit to doing both on and off stage work on a show really understand, can and do what they have said they are going to do. The biggest joy is working together to create not only a quality theater experience, but also a positive sense of community.
4. You've been on stage as well - has your acting experienced influenced your directing methods at all?
It truly has. I have worked with many fine directors. Doing that has helped me both with my acting as well as my directing. I’m a student of both theater and movies and am always looking for tips, ideas, and ways to be as good as possible with this passion hobby of mine.
5. What do you look for when you cast a show in people? How do you know someone is "right" for a particular part?
I look for not only an individual fit for a part but also a fit with the direction and vision I have for a show and with the rest of the cast.
You take as good a guess with the selection and then work with each person to take on the role and enhance what they bring to the project. I look for a person who has stage presence, who is willing to work, doesn’t bring too big an ego to the audition and rehearsals. I do review what experience they have either from what they share on the audition sheet and from what I know about ones work in the past.
6. Tell us what people have to look forward to with "Fiddler on the Roof."
People are in for a real treat! Even as this show is so familiar, there is a freshness that we will deliver. The set is unique in that it will be storybook in look. The actors understand who they are and are working very well together. The music is rich in sound from both the pit and actors. I am sure that people will not only walk away with the tunes in their heads, but a real like for the people and the show itself.
Quick Questions:
1. What is your favorite scene from "Fiddler"?
There are many, but the one I relate to the most is the Little Bird scene where Tevye reflects on the decision of Cheva to marry outside her faith.
There are many, but the one I relate to the most is the Little Bird scene where Tevye reflects on the decision of Cheva to marry outside her faith.
The fun scene is the Dream sequence.
2. What was the first show you ever directed?
My first show directing was with LCP. It was Cheaper By The Dozen.
3. Favorite line from any show?
From Camelot, "I do enjoy being King!"
4. Dream show to act in or direct?
Les Miz
5. Why is theatre meaningful to you, and what role do you think it plays in the community?
Theatre is essential to the healthy life of a community. It is a way for all of us to either pitch in on or off stage, even as audience, to share a slice of life in a creative way. It is a great way to teach and learn. I love shows that have many people of all ages. We share back and forth. We understand each other and the world better. We see that sometimes, even when things don’t go right, we learn more about who we are and more about those around us. It gives me energy to do the things in life that are not always very pleasant. It connects me with an amazing group of people, of whom many are my best friends. Most of all, I can work hard on a project of love as I play and have fun!
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