sometimes I draw inspiration for my characters from the famous actresses who have also played these characters.
Rita Moreno
Anita, West Side Story
Rita Moreno played the role of Anita in Robert Wise's film adaptation
of Leonard Bernstein's and Stephen Sondheim's Broadway musical, West Side Story. In one of her most famous roles, Moreno earned an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. I also played Anita in West Side Story in 2005 and I drew inspiration from Moreno's passion, flair, energy, and spunk in the movie.
Dolly Parton
Truvy, Steel Magnolias
Dolly Parton is one of the most successful American country music artists of all time. In addition to these successes, Parton also played the part of Truvy Jones in the Tri-Star Pictures production of Steel Magnolias, a stage play written by Robert Harling. I also played the part of Truvy at Drury University in 2006. The action of the play centers around Truvy's southern beauty parlor and the women who regularly gather there. The film, which I have always enjoyed, and Parton's portrayal of Truvy were an inspiration to me when developing my character.
Chita Rivera
Nickie, Sweet Charity
Anita, West Side Story
Chita Rivera played Nickie Pignatelli in the 1969 film version of Sweet Charity and also played Anita in the Broadway production of West Side Story. In Sweet Charity, Nickie is one of Charity's closest friends and dancer at the Fandango Ballroom. Rivera's dynamic dance skills and spunky personality brought so much to the screen version of Nicki and she proved to be a huge inspiration for the development of my character.
Nicki and Helene, Charity's best friends
Helena Bonham Carter
Olivia, Twelfth Night
Helena Bonham Carter played Olivia in the film version of Twelfth Night: Or What You Will in 1996, directed by Trevor Nunn. This version is set in the early 19th century, much like the Drury University Theatre adaptation. I play the part of Olivia and I drew much of my inspiration from her interpretation of Shakespeare's text. Drury's production of Twelfth Night runs November 13th - 15th and 20th - 22nd at 8:00pm in Wilhoit Theatre on Drury University's campus. Ticket reservations can be made by calling the Drury Theatre Box Office at (417) 873-7255.
Check out the Springfield News Leader's review of our performance!
Olivia and Cesario
