For each production at TMT, we like to ask our cast and crew members a few questions, so we and you can get to know them better! Some questions are standard. Some are specific to the show these folks are working on. Some are biographical, some are philosophical, and some are completely off the wall! But all of these questions provide a little insight into the wonderful artists that make up our Magnetic community.
Meet the cast and crew of Fish and hear about their experience working on this show, then grab your tickets and come watch them in action, April 14th through April 29th.
Today’s Q&A: What parts of this rehearsal process have been the most special / unique for you?
Paula O’Brien
From Paula O’Brien, who plays the troubled but hopeful Laura:
Oh, the deep dive into character and individual scenes that Ashleigh [Goff, director of Fish] brought us on.
And the care taken with us personally.
There are some really dramatic/traumatic issues in this play but I always felt taken care of.
Jason Phillips
From Jason Phillips, who plays the damaged loner, Charlie:
FISH was written by a very dear friend and it’s been a lovely way to honor her. I hope that she enjoys what we have been putting together.
Plus it’s a pretty emotional show, so the fact that Ashleigh and the great cast and crew have really created a safe space to explore the depths of these characters has been amazing.
Lilly Mills
Lilly Mills plays Missi, the party-hard college girl:
We did more table work on this show than I have ever been fortunate enough to experience, and it really made us all feel like a solid unit.
That is so important for a show that is so small and intimate but where, as characters, so few of us get those moments of connection.
Morgan Miller
Morgan Miller plays True, Charlie’s mother and the root of some very intense moments:
This rehearsal process has been so intimate and character driven and has allowed me to really explore acting techniques and physicality in ways I haven’t been introduced to in the past, and it has been such a pleasure to work with this entire cast of unbelievable performers and to work with such an inventive, caring and talented director like Ashleigh.
Evan Eckstrom
Evan Eckstrom plays six different characters throughout the course of Fish:
Ashleigh's trust in us to do the work of finding out who these characters truly are has been a treat.
The thoughtful style of directing is something I haven't worked with since being directed by my old business partner in Boston.
Quinn Terry
Quinn Terry, who you may have seen rockin’ the stage in HappyLand, is behind the scenes this time, as Stage Manager for Fish:
Being able to see each of these performers put their heart and soul into their characters.
Watching Ashleigh help them grow into this difficult show with kindness and intention has been an honor.
This cast and their director are shining stars and I'm honored to have seen this show unfurl before my eyes.
For an actor or a stage manager (or one who does both!) there’s nothing quite like a rehearsal process that digs deep into fascinating characters. Getting to know the director, the other actors and crew, and the fictional people who make up the world of a play can be an exciting and fulfilling experience, as well as an emotional and intellectual challenge. We’re glad to hear the folks of Fish are enjoying their deep dives and making great connections, and we can’t wait to share their work!
For our next Q&A, we’ll lighten up a little as these awesome artists share their favorite Asheville dives and go-to drinks.
Stay tuned, and make your plans to see the show!