Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Spotlight On...Christopher Michael Clark


Name: Christopher Michael Clark

Hometown: Huntsville, AL

Education: The American Musical and Dramatic Academy

Select Credits: Greg Pierotti in The Laramie Project (YAPP @ The Looking Glass Theatre), Ellard Simms in The Foreigner (TH @ The Playhouse)

Why theater: Because I've been fired from every day job I've ever had! I don't know how to do anything else. All kidding aside, it's the easiest way I know to identify with all walks of life and all kinds of people. It's about humanity, and telling a story.

Tell us about The Flowers of Fantastico: Funny and engaging. A clever script written and directed by Rachel Kerry of Brain Melt Consortium, The Flowers of Fantastico is a bisexual romantic horror comedy that pays an earnest homage to B-movies (and the people who love them). When perpetually lovelorn Tara finds a mysterious VHS cassette tape hidden in a 30-year-old vending machine, she uncovers the dark secret it harbors, putting the destiny of millions at stake. From awkwardly hilarious breakups to the pursuit of ones sexual identity, Fantastico will tickle your funny bone and tug at your heart strings. Plus , we have superhero nuns, demonic baked goods AND exciting special effects designed by Bloodpump Productions. Did I mention a celesbian wedding that could end the world?

What is it like to be a part of The Flowers of Fantastico: SO. MUCH. FUN. Rachel has assembled a hilarious cast of up-and-comers who treat comedy like it's their job. It's so humbling to see what these amazing actors bring to the table each week and watch them breathe life into these characters that we've all come to love. Also, we have a ridiculously supportive creative team behind us. They make the magic.

What kind of theater speaks to you? What or who inspires you as an artist?: I find myself drawn to theatre that challenges your perspective and allows you to see into a window of life that maybe you never understood. Everyone deserves a chance to tell their story and if you'll just listen you may learn a thing or two. Inspiration can be found all around if you just open your eyes.

What’s it like to be a part of FringeNYC?: Thrilling. It's like being in the same room with 200 other people who just GET it, and don't judge you for thinking outside of the box. It's been an emotional experience as an artist and a safe environment to let go and create.

Any role you’re dying to play?: Joe in Angels in America

What show have you recommended to your friends?: My Fringe picks: Ampersand, The Eternal Husband, and Sammy Gets Mugged. I've also heard amazing things about Salamander Stew and All The Windows on Alcatraz.

What’s up next?: No theatre in the immediate future, however, you can catch me this fall as Jesse Einhorn in The RA's a new webseries by John Capo (Winner, Best Pitch, NY Television Festival 2011) premiering September 8th. www.watchtheras.com

For more information on The Flowers of Fantastico, please visit http://www.brainmeltconsortium.com/