A veteran of the Milwaukee theatre scene for over 30 years, Norman Moses returns to MCT after performing as multiple roles in AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS, Graham in TALKING HEADS, Gabe in DINNER WITH FRIENDS and Nick in WHO'S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF among many others.
about your characters. What is it like playing two roles?
Tom Travers is the owner of Brinkley Court, a rather lavish estate in England. He is married to Dahlia Travers, who’s nephew, Bertie Wooster, is the source of much of his personal distress (and his acute dyspepsia). Chef Anatole is the French, personal chef for the Travers household whose tempestuous temperament is almost as renowned as his amazing culinary achievements. These two roles were written to be performed by one actor, so it does present some unique challenges. The British and French dialects became a big focus of my initial preparation. I recently met with a native speaking French teacher at the Alliance Française and recorded him reading my Anatole lines, to hear an authentic dialect. I have found this to be an extremely effective tool in getting an accurate sound. The key for me is to say the lines enough times so that I don’t have to think about the dialect, and it just flows naturally. At the same time I focus on the character and the story telling. I also try to develop physicality for each of the characters, and then build upon that to tell the story of each character as determined by the plot and dialogue.
What are some of the benefits and challenges of performing in such a comedic play?
L-R: Norman Moses, Matt Daniels and Chris Klopatek in AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS (2009) |
What are some of your favorite moments in theatre that made you who you are today?
One of the greatest experiences in comedy I have ever had was doing BEYOND THE FRINGE
L-R: Montgomery Davis, Norman Moses, Colin Cabot and Bill Leach in BEYOND THE FRINGE (1984) |
What do you like about being a theatre artist in Milwaukee?
We are probably the nicest group of actors you’ll ever want to meet. There is very little of the fierce competition that one sees in other towns. We all want to work, but if we don’t get the job, we go out and support the other actor who got it. It’s pretty unique and rare, and I think it makes one a better performer, knowing there is this community of like-minded people rooting one on.
Thanks Norman! We can't wait to see you as Tom & Chef Anatole, April 11-28!
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