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 Lauren McKay
Lauren performs in Reach/Recover, the next #newworkshop selection in Now & Then's 3rd season. Artistic Director John Perovich had a chance to speak with Lauren 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): Lauren—thank you for joining us at Now & Then for the very first time! To get things started, can you share a bit with us about your character for Reach/Recover?
Lauren McKay (LM): Sam is an astronomy grad student who sees the value and beauty in things no matter the distance between them. They’re trying to maintain a healthy long-distance relationship while studying objects over 500 light years away. Sam is also a unique character in that gender of the actor playing them isn’t finite.
JP: Thank you. Can you share a bit of your process with us? How has it been different for this workshop of Reach/Recover?
LM: The process of any reading is always unique. It’s a shortened project over all and as an actor, you need to adapt your skills in order to effectively tell the story and create the world of the show without all the set/props/costumes. Readings are a great way for actors to let go of that ego, become part of a mighty team, and work with the playwright in the room.
JP: I love what you share about being a part of a team and working with the playwright. It's a unique opportunity to work as a team to test the story, shape its moments, and interrogate its meaning. 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?
LM: There’s an overwhelming amount of entertaining content being released every day; the industry as a whole moves SO fast. Live theatre is a beautiful way to slow down in real time and fully experience the vulneribility of a piece of work. New work readings specifically are like looking through a magnifying glass at the formation of a script. Reach/Recover focuses on communication within relationships when time and distance get in the way. It’s honestly the PERFECT piece to experience live with us and contribute.
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.