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Meet Actor Alan Khoutakoun
Alan is performing in Lottery House by Angelica Howland, the next #newworkshop selection in Now & Then's 3rd season. Artistic Director John Perovich had a chance to speak with Alan about his role and process for the workshop. Lottery House by Angelica Howland will be presented to audiences Friday, November 15 at 7:30PM and Saturday, November 16 at 11:00AM.
John Perovich (JP): Alan, it's wonderful to to have you back with us at Now & Then! Some of you might remember Alan from our season opener—Pluck the Day by Kirt Shineman. Welcome back! Can you share a bit about your character with us?
Alan Khoutakoun (AK): Rayce is the nerdy millennial that thinks everything that they need to know is on the internet. They are bit standoffish at first, but really just want to belong.
JP: That's interesting that you mention them wanting to belong. Some of the other cast members I've spoken with have described their characters as wanting a connection with others. Even those characters in the play who seem really standoffish—guarded—there is also a yearning for a connection...for acceptance. That's in the writing—thank you, Angelica, for that lovely, realistic contrast. Please tell us a bit about your process as an actor. How has it been different for this workshop?
AK: I have an overactive imagination and visuals tend to stick with me way too long, so I don’t watch horror movies. But to help feel the energy for this show, I have been listening to horror themed podcasts!
JP: Sometimes I find those scarier! Lottery House is packed with references to the horror genre, nods to tropes, and callbacks to classic horror stories. If you—or the audience—dare to brave at least one film that Angelica was particularly drawn to for inspiration for Lottery House, I'd recommend The Haunting (1963...stay far away from the 1999 remake). Final question, there are so many options for seeing theatre in the valley or staying at home to stream stuff (Disney+ seems to be on everyone's minds). Why should audiences check out Lottery House?
AK: Angelica has included all of the horror tropes a horror fan will love, but it’s also an exquisitely written play. Combine that with the direction from Louis Farber, this amazing cast, and the chance to be a part of a play’s development—it’s a no brainer for you to come see this show!
Lottery House by Angelica Howland will be presented to audiences this Friday, November 15 at 7:30PM and Saturday, November 16 at 11:00AM. For info and tickets, click here.