Tuesday, April 22, 2014

The Gospel According to...Jack DellaTorri

Name: Jack DellaTorri

Hometown: Staten Island, NY / Tucson, AZ

Education: BFA in Musical Theatre from University of Arizona

Who do you play in The Mysteries?: A punk rock angel.

Tell us about The Mysteries: You've probably already heard the facts: Radical retelling of the Bible, 48 playwrights, 54 actors, awesome downtown theatre, etc. What you really need to know is that you will be affected by this experience because it's not like anything you've ever seen before. You, like I, may have been raised going to church and hearing the stories in the Bible, but The Mysteries expresses the humanity of these characters we're familiar with. This show isn't about religion and Christianity, it's about the human condition, what connects us all in the essence of what it is to be alive, regardless of gender, race, culture, class, or beliefs.

Describe The Mysteries in three words: Emotional. Beautiful. Transcendent.

What's the wildest costume you wear in The Mysteries?: Fluorescent glow-in-the-dark mummy/zombie takes the cake. Easy.

If you could be anyone from The Bible, who would you be?: Jael or Judith. Badass women for sure.

Which company member is most likely to actually have lived during Biblical times?: I'm pretty sure everyone in this company has a smart phone so I'm gonna say none of 'em.

Which company member is most likely to be the Messiah?:
Alesandra Nahodil. She represents women so beautifully in this production and I'm constantly in awe of her.

 Most likely to become an angel?: Tyler Gardella, which you'll find is pretty ironic once you see the show. He is such a kind and compassionate soul, you can't help but love him.

Most likely to hear voices in their head?: Xan Russell, without a doubt. We always joke that she's spacing out on Planet Xan.

Who's the most spiritual?: Jessie MacBeth and Brittane Rhodes because they take you to church in their duet. It's stunning.

On the 8th day god said_____: I'd like to think he said something along the lines of "Live a life that brings joy to you and those who have the pleasure of meeting you. Above all else, love each other, and yourself."

Are you going to heaven or hell?: Wherever the bigger party is.

Which of the Seven Deadly Sins are you?:
Pride. Maybe lust. It depends on the day.

What's the biggest inside joke at The Mysteries?: All of the Ed-isms we quote to each other. Our director has a brilliant way with words and when giving notes he can be extremely hilarious. We crack up every time. Also, "You are blessed in face."

What's your favorite moment from The Mysteries?: "The Transfiguration". It's the first time you get to see the angels really let go and radiate joy, and the response we get from having the whole company on stage just does something magical to my heart.

What is the most rewarding part about being a member of The Mysteries?: Meeting this community of other young, passionate, talented artists who want to make meaningful art and share it with people. I can't say enough how in love I am with this entire cast.

Why should we come see The Mysteries?: We have everything you're looking for in a fantastic night out. Innovative theatre, music, food and drinks, a wonderfully social setting, beautiful, talented people, and the promise of the continuation of the party into the wee hours of the morning.

For more on Jack,visit http://jackdellatorri.com/