Welcome to Artist Features—an offering from Now & Then that provides depth and insight into the work of our artists. For show info and tickets, visit our box office.
Meet Actor Erin Coté
Erin performs in Reach/Recover, the next #newworkshop selection in Now & Then's 3rd season. Artistic Director John Perovich had a chance to speak with Erin about the process. Reach/Recover by Christopher Patrick Allen will be presented to audiences this Friday, March 6 at 7:30PM and Saturday, March 7 at 11:00AM
John Perovich (JP): Erin—thank you for joining us at Now & Then for the very first time! Let's jump right in: Can you share a bit with us about your character for Reach/Recover?
Erin Coté (EC): I am thrilled to get to play a few different characters in Reach/Recover! The two I will talk about are Christina and Violet. Although they have different personalities, both women make the choice to end their relationships—they are similar in how mature they are with their break-up conversations. Their decisions come from a thoughtful, logical place. I think it is wonderful to see examples of relationships ending in a way that is not over dramatic.
JP: Sometimes things just...end—which is part of the story's exploration. Can you share a bit of your process with us? How has it been different for this workshop of Reach/Recover?
EC: It is rare to have the opportunity to work with the writer of a piece, so having Christopher’s insight has been valuable. Also, this process is very fast! We had a couple rehearsals to learn music and now just a week for blocking and developing relationships with the other actors. This is a wonderful group to perform with and there has been a sense of safety (to make choices around the actors) from the get-go.
JP: It is a quick process. From the work that we've been creating in our workshops, we try to make instinctual choices and keep things moving. A lot can be uncovered...but not nearly as much as would be found in a full rehearsal process. Hopefully this workshop will reveal the possibilities of a future production and we'll see that come to fruition. Final question: There are so many options for seeing theatre in the valley or staying at home to stream entertainment. Why should audiences come see Reach/Recover?
EC: Love is a human experience that we can all relate to. The message of Reach/Recover is positive, and I think the way the show speaks about reaching out for help is also very powerful. Watching a live performance is electric—you don’t get to “feel the air change in the room” when you watch a movie or tv.
JP: Thank you, Erin! Join us this Friday and Saturday for Reach/Recover!
Reach/Recover by Christopher Patrick Allen will be presented to audiences Friday, March 6 at 7:30PM and Saturday, March 7 at 11:00AM. For info and tickets, click here.