Thursday, July 21, 2016

Spotlight On...Trent Saunders

Name: Trent Saunders

Hometown: Kirkland, WA

Education: Bachelor of Music, University of Miami

Select Credits: American Idiot (St. Jimmy), Aladdin the Musical (Ensemble, u/s Aladdin/Babkak)

Why theater?: I find theatre to be a space to explore the sensitivities and diversities found in people.  Personally I was originally drawn to it as a means to safely and creatively explore myself through the stories of others.  These days, I find myself drawn to the community, and the incredible people that this business surrounds me with.

Who do you play in Newton’s Cradle?: I play Michael, brother of Evan, son of Audrey and Nate.

Tell us about Newton’s Cradle: Newton’s Cradle is a unique exploration into the life and upbringing of Evan, a boy diagnosed with autism, and those most effected by his diagnosis.

What is it like being a part of Newton’s Cradle?: Newton’s Cradle is a show that explores a topic that I think is so prevalent in today’s society, where the labels we place on people seem to define so much.  I love the character of Michael, and find his perspective to be challenging to make clear.  I like challenges.  I also can’t say enough about the incredible group of people that I get to tell this story with.  Rose Hemingway is beautiful and an immense talent.  And Victoria Clark is a dream.

What kind of theater speaks to you? What or who inspires you as an artist?: I have a great appreciation for theatre that makes me feel strongly about something.  It could be a positive or a negative feeling.  I just want to be moved, to leave the theatre different from when I entered.  That, or I just want to have the time of my life.  Fun is good too ☺ As far as inspiration, I find unique storytelling inspiring.  Steven Hoggett’s movement in American Idiot was an incredible thing to experience, and watching it in applied Once had me stifling tears.

Any roles you’re dying to play?:  I would love to play Fiyero in Wicked.  Simba would be a blast too!

What’s your favorite showtune?: "If I Loved You".  Hate the show, love the song.

If you could work with anyone you’ve yet to work with, who would it be?: Bartlett Sher, Audra McDonald, Dwayne Johnson, Denzel Washington, Stephen Hoggett

Who would play you in a movie about yourself and what would it be called?: Dwayne Johnson.  Yes, I love Dwayne Johnson.

If you could go back in time and see any play or musical you missed, what would it be?: Most recently I wish that I had seen American Psycho.

What show have you recommended to your friends?:  Fiddler on the Roof was an incredible revival of a spectacular show.

What’s your biggest guilty pleasure?: Ice Cream.  Lots of ice cream.

What’s up next?:  Lets just wait and see ☺