On the Head of a Pin
nytheatre.com q&a preview by James Ortiz
September 26, 2012
What is your job on this show?
Actor and co- artistic director of StrangeMen & Co..
Are there boundaries as to what kind of theatre you will take part in?
No, i don't think so - there are so many different types of theatrical storytelling that I love- musicals, straight plays, performance art, puppet shows... and each method of storytelling has its benefits in making a connection with different audiences. For me, the big question before a project begins is if the story of the piece is WORTH telling and would connect to an audience.
Complete this sentence: My show is the only one opening in NYC this fall that...?
...that is an entertaining, funny, character-driven story that somehow manages to also pose some fascinating questions about big business's effect on all of our lives, the dying newspaper industry, and the shocking things we all might be driven towards in the name of love or loyalty. I have no idea how Frank Winters (our playwright and director) has done it.
In your own words, what do you think this show is about? What will audiences take away with them after seeing it?
It's about love, and hard work, and passion, and its also about how amazingly difficult it is to do the right thing over the easy thing.
I think audiences will be dazzled by these characters and I think their stories may just spark some really interesting conversation. I only wish we could join in on some of those post-show chats!
Which cartoon character would you identify your show with: Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Mickey Mouse, Marge Simpson?
Daffy Duck. What makes him funny is also what makes him angry. On the Head of a Pin is about funny, frustrated people who don't understand why the world is being so difficult. definitely Daffy Duck.
Can theater bring about societal change? Why or why not?
Well, come see the show and you can tell me.
