Charles Eaton has been having a blast as part of the cast of The Pirates of Penzance on our Proscenium Stage through March 25. It’s been one of those gigs when work is truly play, and the hardest part may well be to keep a straight face on stage. Here he is to tell us about his experience in this hilarious Park Square production:
1. What has it been like for you to be a singing pirate and police officer in this production? Tell me all about the good, the bad and the silly!
It’s been a tricky but mostly hilarious challenge to keep the two straight. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had to think, “Okay, are you a policeman here, or a pirate, or just an actor in the troupe?”
The police officers of Penzance!
(Photo by Petronella J. Ytsma)
2. Actors were cast primarily for their singing and acting abilities. How has it been for you to learn the physical moves in the dance sequences?
I, by no means, consider myself a dancer; but it has been a really good experience for me. It’s especially exciting to be constantly thinking about physicality on stage–being a pirate is a totally different persona than being a policeman.
3. What sparked your passion for singing and acting, and how long has this obsession been going on?
I’ve always loved music and always sang in choirs in school. My first musical was in 6th grade (Cornelius in Hello, Dolly!), but it wasn’t until college that I started taking voice lessons. I started music education; but after seeing La Boheme at the Metropolitan Opera, I knew that performing is what I wanted to do.
The pirates of Penzance!
(Photo by Petronella J. Ytsma)
4. What is your favorite “piratey” thing?
I parrot sit a lot and have formed quite the bond with the little guy, so I guess . . . parrots?
5. Why should people come to see The Pirates of Penzance?
There are SO many moments on stage when I have to truly hold back my laughter because of the hilarity that my awesome colleagues create. Anyone who doesn’t see it is missing out on some belly laughs!
Tickets and information here.
