#TAABeauty Cast Spotlight: Tyler Jarrett, "Cogsworth"

Tyler Jarrett's straight-laced and hysterical performance as Cogsworth in Theater Arts Alliance's production of Disney's "Beauty and the Beast" keeps us rolling with laughter, even in rehearsals!  Tyler has been seen in leading roles across Tulare County, and we are so glad that he has joined us for #TAABeauty!  We asked him a few questions about life in and out of theater...

When you're not on stage, what are you up to?
During the day I am a Science teacher for 7th and 8th grade at Mulcahy Middle School in Tulare. When I am not working or in theater I like to play video games, work out, and go on adventures.

Tell us about Cogsworth -- how is he important to Beauty and the Beast?
Cogsworth is an eccentric yet exciting character who is completely loyal to the Beast even if he is frightened of him. He adds comic relief to the show and serves as a foil to Lumiere in that Lumiere has a blatant disregard for the rules while Cogsworth MUST uphold them. 

What other roles have you played?
Recently, I was Princeton in Avenue Q, Edward Bloom in Big Fish, and Danny Zuko in Grease. After Beauty and the Beast closes, I will start another run as Edward Bloom in Big Fish at Selma Arts Center. These three roles have been some of my favorites because even though they are different, they are all just guys trying to follow their hearts. Cogsworth is now a favorite too because he is so different from those roles.


Why musical theater?  How is it important to you and to the community?
Musical theater is such an important part of my life because I literally grew up on stage. I met many of my best friends there and it helped me come out of my shell. Just like Belle and her books, musical theater has taken me to far off places and allowed me to take on the life of a new character with every show. For people who enjoy books, movies, and even video games, musical theater is a great form of entertainment. 

Who would you recommend come to see #TAABeauty?
Beauty and the Beast is one show that people of all ages will enjoy. There is comedy, drama, and a wonderful lesson to be learned.
This cast is amazingly talented and I am very excited to be a part of it.

See Tyler and the rest of the memorable #TAABeauty cast

August 18-21 at Visalia's LJ Williams Theater!
Tickets online at
Brown Paper Tickets: Beauty and the Beast

#TAABeauty Cast Spotlight: Ensemble and Featured Dancer Christian David

 We have been fans of Christian David's musical work for a long time -- we're so excited that he is finally joining us on stage with TAA's "Beauty and the Beast!" 

We asked him some questions about his life, in and out of theater and music -- hope you enjoy getting to know him a bit better as much as we did!

You do a lot with music -- can you please tell us about the rest of your musical life and what it means for you?
My musical life is devoted to ministry. I have had the opportunity to travel and minister through song, and it's the most rewarding experience I could ask for! This is what I believe my purpose and destiny, to minister the gospel of Jesus Christ through song.

When it's not music, what else do you do with your life?
When I'm not doing music (which is very rare) I'm also a graphic design artist. I have my own business in which I design flyers, business cards banners and also do video and commercial editing.

Why musical theater?
For me, there is so much joy I get out of theater, both on stage and off. And I believe this to be true for the community as well, those who perform and those who don't. It offers the same experience to all...a chance to get a way and go to another place that's outside of your life for a while. A chance to live through breathtaking music and story telling. I believe, now more than ever, this is important. Giving people an outlet from this harsh world we live in.

Tell us about TAA's production of Disney's Beauty and the Beast...
This production is filled with so many genuine people who just love to perform. An awesome group of people who really just love to be nice. And that's exactly what comes across during performances. 

Any additional thoughts on life?

No matter what, live! Life may throw a harsh temporary reality your way, but there's always hope! Choose to live and not look back on what was and will never be again!

He didn't mention this in the interview, but we have to!  Christian's CDs are fantastic!  Find his work on iTunes and Amazon and GooglePlay!  

See and hear Christian and the rest of the spectacular TAA Beauty and the Beast cast perform at Visalia's LJ Williams Theater August 18-21!
For tickets call 559-972-8417 or visit Brown Paper Tickets Online

#TAABeauty Cast Spotlight: Featured Dancer LeAnn Medina!

Featured Dancer LeAnn Medina is a treasure in Visalia's young artist's community.  She has been part of TAA since our first production, appearing as Clara in the Nutcracker Ballet and we are so glad she is with us!  A sophomore at Golden West High School,  she is not only a competitive dancer but a member of youth symphony as a cellist.  We can hardly wait to see what the future brings for this passionate and dedicated artist!  

You have a beautiful start to your life as a performing artist -- could you tell us some of your background so far?  
I havvvve to start with DANCE!  I started classes at 6 years old and I currently dance at Elite

Dance Acadamy.  I've been studying dance for nine years!  My family did not have enough money to consistently afford dance classes so my aunt helped me out for 8 years financially, but now I'm a teacher assistant which helps pay for the tuition and dance team costs.  I'm in the Golden West "Illusions" dance team as well 

My favorite part of dance is just the feeling of being free in the movement. A dancer knows the feeling of being on stage. Every art has some sort of original feeling of happiness and just loving what you're doing.  When I was five years old I watched Barbie in the Nutcracker every day for a whole year!  My parents always snuck by and caught me dancing the the final pas de deux of the Nutcracker, which at five was just thrashing, jumping, and flailing, but you know what? It brought me to the great world of dance competitions, musicals, and I actually got to dance that final Pas de Deux in TAA's Nutcracker last year!  With no flailing!!
I also play the CELLO! In 5th grade we were given an option of playing an instrument of any

choice. I wanted to play the violin until I heard a teacher play the cello, and I fell in love with the wide variety of tones! It can go all the way to violin land but it can still go quite low similar to a bass.  I'm grateful that I continue to get scholarships for private lessons.  My favorite part of playing the cello is that music is the one language that everyone can understand. Everyone that plays sends a certain feeling to an audience. Whether it be a sad feeling, angry feeling, or cheerful feeling. We all can get it no matter what language they speak. 

You're a competitive dancer -- tell us about that? 

I've competed for 9 years now and it is a tough game. There are many great dancers out there, but in the long run all of us, as a team, aim for improving ourselves and having fun! Many dancers are aware of Starpower, Hollywood Connection, Nuvo, NYCDA, and many other comps. We perform in front of many famous choreographers that are usually from "So You Think You Can Dance" or just famous choreographers in general. Great experience and nothing can match the feeling of passion and adrenaline on stage! And the feeling of winning is great too!

Now you've added musical theater to your list...
I've had some experience on musical theater when my studio had classes for it. Really, if you can find a dancer that can sing and read notes, the equation is all set. The hard part is doing that together. At the same time.  But you know what? The best and great old cure is (surprise surprise) practicing!  I absolutely love musical theater because it combines the two things I love most! Singing and dancing!

What do the performing arts mean to you and to the community?
I probably wouldn't be who I am today without performing arts. It's given me many gifts and

happiness in my everyday life! What better way to share your story than through a dance routine, a song, or an instrument?  I feel that the arts can bring a community together because everybody enjoys it!

Who do you think will enjoy Theater Arts Alliance's production of Beauty and the Beast?
Everyone that's a human being that can just sit down and enjoy the great talents of the community that have produced such a great and beautiful production. Beauty and the Beast has a cast that I never knew would be so talented. To add on top of that, they are all from within our community!

See LeAnn and the rest of the fantastic #TAABeauty cast August 18-21 at Visalia's LJ Williams theater! 

For tickets call 559-972-8417 or visit Brown Paper Tickets Online!

#TAABeauty Young Artist Spotlight: Featured Dancer Kaylynn Gardner!

Kaylynn Bonnie Gardner is an eleven year old sixth grader at Monroe Elementary School in Hanford, her favorite subject is math and we at Theater Arts Alliance have known that "KK" was a girl to watch ever since she walked into auditions for the Nutcracker Ballet!  We hope that this talented and enthusiastic young woman continues to be a fixture in our productions!  Here are some of her thoughts on life as a young person in the performing arts! 
 
 
How long have you been studying the performing arts? 
I have danced since before I could even walk, competing with Dancer's Edge in Hanford and the past year dancing with Ruby Slipper in Visalia. Last summer I was in my first production, Annie, where I was a lead dancer. It was so much fun and it truly sparked my desire to be on stage! Last fall I was privileged to be in Nutcracker with TAA. I played the part of Fritz, Clara's brother, and also danced as a soldier, Peppermint and Gingerbread. That was my first real experience with a professional theatre company and I loved every minute! Madama Butterfly with TAA was my first opera experience and it was amazing! With Ruby Slipper, I also performed in Mulan. I am now involved in TAA's Beauty and the Beast as a featured dancer which will perform later this month. I actually learned to walk in my first ballet class in Kings Dance Center in Hanford! I have been dancing ever since! When I am dancing, I feel inspired and happy. I am also an ambassador for a dance company, Sugar. This has been a fun experience and I get to promote their company and share my dance experiences with friends on Instagram.

Can you tell us about some of your latest adventures?  There seems to be a lot going on for you right now!  This summer has been filled with new, exciting experiences for me. I have auditioned for a movie which will start filming sometime this fall, I performed in a music video with Talia Perez, a new Christian artist, performed live with her in Los Angeles, and filmed the music video on top of the L.A. Athletic Club in downtown Los Angeles! That was such a crazy fun experience. Saturday night, after rehearing for Beauty in the Beast in Visalia, I attended my very first Red Carpet event in Hollywood, hosted by the producer and casting directors I am currently working with. It was an event to expose new film makers and actresses to the Hollywood elite! I also spent two days the past week filming a movie in Los Angeles. This was a UCLA Student film production where I was a classroom kid and a playground kid. The start was Zackary Arthur (The 5th Wave). I was on the movie set for two days. I met a lot of people. This summer I also had the opportunity to do some stock print modeling, and I had two professional photo shoots in Los Angeles. My mom is in negotiations for two new projects, however, I'm still waiting on those! 
 
Who should come and see TAABeauty and why?  I would encourage everyone to go experience Beauty and the Beast. It's going to be awesome. The singers are all amazing and the acting is very professional. I'm honored to be a part of this production. I think when people experience the performing arts, they can let the cares of the day away and you can relax and be pulled into the story for a couple of hours. The cast for Beauty and the Beast is the largest cast I've worked with and I'm loving getting to know so many new people. My dream is to someday have a lead part in a production so I can showcase the experiences I have had and perform for my family and friend. My dreams are coming true thanks to TAA and my parents and family who support me in this 100%.

Come meet Kaylynn "KK" and the rest of the fantastic
TAA Beauty cast this August 18-21 at the 

LJ Williams Theater in Visalia! 

For Tickets call 559-972-8417 

or go to http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2561633

TAABeauty Cast Spotlight: Lauren Chambers, "Babette"

"Into the Woods"

From mission work in Thailand to wowing us in every TAABeauty rehearsal with her hysterical and detailed performance as the French maid turned Feather Duster, Babette, Lauren Chambers throws her whole heart into everything she does, including her work on the stage!  She has been part of the Visalia performing arts community from an early age, and shared some of her thoughts on theater and life with us...

How did you get here?  Why is theater part of your life? I grew up watching old musicals, and I was mesmerized by them! The beautiful ladies in the beautiful dresses doing beautiful dances. It was all I ever wanted to do! Theater has also given me the opportunity to dance again, and has taught me a lot about confidence! There is something weirdly freeing about being someone else for a bit, it's fun!
 

"South Pacific"

Tell us about your performing arts background...I have been performing in one way or another in Visalia since I was in elementary school. Throughout my school years, I was very involved with Dance Arts, and since I've moved back to Visalia I've been enjoying working with the League of Christian Actors and Theater Arts Alliance. 

What is your favorite theater project to date? I think one of my favorite shows I've done was TAA's Young Frankenstein. The show itself is funny, but the cast made it hilarious! It was such a small cast, and most of us had worked together on other projects before, so it was like doing a show with your family. I was in the ensemble, so I had a million different parts. It was wonderful!  

What is your "day job," and what else do you do when you're not on stage?By day I am a teacher, I guess you could say it relates to theater by fact that I'm used to having an audience all day long. But really, I think that theater has helped me in my work simply because theater has helped me become a more confident person in general, in and out of my classroom. Aside from theater and work, I hardly have time for other hobbies, but I love to craft. I knit and and do other silly Pinterest-inspired things. I also love to bake pie! 

Real-life in Thailand!

Why see this production of "Beauty and the Beast?" Beauty and the Beast is a fairy tale, and fairy tales are good for the soul! Beauty and the Beast sends an important message about standing up for yourself, looking for the good in others and not judging someone simply because they may look different. I think everyone should see this show, because it really is "a tale as old as time," but our cast is giving a great interpretation to this magical story!

Dancing in TAABeauty rehearsal with Lumiere

 See Lauren as Babette the Feather Duster and the rest of the marvelous TAABeauty cast 

August 18-21 at Visalia's LJ Williams Theater
For tickets call 559-972-8417 

Or go to www.brownpapertickets.com

#TAABeauty Cast Spotlight: Seth Vazquez, "Gaston"

Introducing Seth Vazquez, "Gaston" in TAA's upcoming production of Beauty and the Beast!
Seth Vazquez is an accomplished and well-established actor and singer in the Central Valley.  In roles as diverse as the thoughtful and romantic Lieutenant Cable in South Pacific to the zealous and passionate Enjolras in Les Miserables, Seth brings a strength and excitement to every stage!  We asked Seth a few questions as he prepares for "Gaston."

Audiences will get to know you on stage -- what do you do the rest of the time?
By day, I am an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), either on a ambulance or in a hospital ER.  The biggest drive in my life is helping those who are experiencing possibly the worst moments of their lives. As an adrenaline junkie, quick thinking and fast interventions are like second nature to me, so much so that I'm in the process of advancing my education at Fresno state in hopes of becoming an Emergency Room Physicians Assistant (PA) so that I will be able to help more people then ever possible.

How did you get your start in theater?  I started doing theater based on a dare, funny enough. A girlfriend in high school had been trying to convince me to audition for the school musical but I just couldn't bring myself to do so. In fact, I waited until the last 10 minutes of the audition process to reluctantly walk in, but I am sure glad I did. Being up on stage, being someone else, is something that really can't be explained to another: it has to be experienced! For me, the feeling I get on stage is addictive, I think that's what keeps bringing me back to the stage. No matter where I go in life I know that as long as I have a voice and a body to be in, I will find a stage to be on.

Tell us about the character you play in Beauty and the Beast -- Gaston.

I have always found Gaston to be unique in the realm of Disney villains. Where others mirror their horrible intentions on their exterior, Gaston is physically attractive and really drives the

phrase, "don't judge a book by its cover" home. What really drove me to him is his character arch. In the beginning, Gaston is rude, narcissistic, and chauvinist yet somehow remains charming to the audience. Yet as the show progresses his once charming nature morphs into one of malice and jealousy which ultimately drives him to become the villain of the piece.
Gaston is important to the show because I believe he represents the kind of villain we each can become. It's sometimes easy to let your pride get out of control and to think we deserve only the best, as Gaston frequently states. Where Belle represents whole, complete beauty and the Beast represents beauty on the inside, Gaston is extremely important to the message of "beauty is found within" due to his beautiful exterior but not so beautiful interior.


Why live theater?  Theater for me is something that I can always look forward to, it's something

Seth as "Enjolras" in the Fresno Grand Opera
production of "Les Miserables"

that no matter what troubles or obstacles in life I may be facing, I know that in theater and on the stage I can forget about all the outside world and just enjoy what the cast has spent so many so many painstaking hours preparing for the audience.
I believe theater should be a mirror to life. When one goes to the theater to see a performance I believe that it is our job as actors to not only entertain them, but to move them in a way that no other medium can, to make them feel different about the world by having seen our show. I know that is what I strive for every time I step on a stage. And Beauty and the Beast will be no exception -- prepare to cry all kinds of tears, audience!

Who is this show for?  Who should come see "Beauty and the Beast?"
If you live in California, come see this show!!! This cast will represent some of the premiere actors and singer the region has to offer. Children of all ages would love to experience the wonderful magic and touching message of Beauty and the Beast in LIVE ACTION right before your eyes! From the spoons to Belle herself, each cast and crew member has one goal, to make you, the audience, laugh, cry, and experience the magic that is a Disney spectacular. So "be our guest" and discover the true nature of beauty this August only at the LJ Williams Theater!

Come see Seth and the rest of the Beauty and the Beast cast August 18-21 at the LJ Williams Theater in Visalia!  Tickets at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2561633

TAA Frankenstein Artist Spotlight: Brooke Rogers as Elizabeth Benning!

TAA is so excited to have amazing actress Brooke Rogers join us on stage this season!  An incredibly versatile actress, Brooke is stunning in serious and period pieces, but in this comic romp her sparkling wit will have everyone rolling in the aisles as she portrays Elizabeth Benning, Frederick Frankenstein's "madcap fiancee!"

"I'd say any adults with a sense of humor should see Young Frankenstein and have a great time, and adults without a sense of humor should see it so they can get one!"



 We asked Brooke a few more questions about her life in theater and current project... read her other thoughts below!

 1) What roles have you played in recent years and what are your all time favorites?  I just finished playing Anna in The King and I at COS and had an amazing time. It was the first musical I had done in YEARS and the fact that I got to be in such a classic show playing one of the roles I have always wanted to play made it extra special. A couple years before that, I did The Glass Menagerie as Laura, which was another dream time. I'd love to do that show again, I love it so much! I got to be both Belle and Mrs.Potts, which was awesome. At CAL STATE FULLERTON, I had an incredible experience in being an ensemble show called The Spoon River Project as well as The Laramie Project. Both let me explore many diverse characters and it was not only exciting, but it was provided great growth.

2) How is Elizabeth Benning the same/different from any of these? Does she present any particular challenges or fun for you? Elizabeth is SO different from most roles I've played!! It's one of the reasons I was so stoked to take it on, apart from the fact that it's Madeline Kahn's character in the movie. I've played big, out-there characters like Miss. Hannigan in Annie and Nanny in Baby with the Bathwater (who I think is the most Elizabeth-like role I've had). It's going to be hard letting myself be as big and bold as I can be! I'm so freaking excited. She's definitely the dirtiest broad I've ever played, that's for sure. BRING IT ON!

3) Why Theater? Is this kind of art important for the community? Yes yes yes yes yes yes yes. I've seen theater inspire many people, may it be backstage, onstage, or in the audience. The theater community goes past just the cast and crew. The community is incomplete without an audience, so being able to be a part of a show and connect the outside world with the artistic world is an honor, and from the audience point of view, it's an honor to be invited into the story being told.

4) Why see Young Frankenstein?   Um... because it's hysterical. Fans of the movie will get to see many beloved moments live onstage. Even those who haven't seen the movie will have a blast. It has a definite melodramatic element which makes the site even funnier! I'd say any adults with a sense of humor should see it and have a great time, and adults without a sense of humor should see it so they can get one!

Come see Brooke and the rest of the incredible #TAAFrankenstein cast May 26th-28th at the Main Street Theater in Visalia!  
For tickets, call Kym at 559-972-8417 
or go to http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2540771

TAA Butterfly Spotlight -- Lauren Farris, "La Madre"

 
 Lauren Farris' crystal soprano tone and perfectly centered pitch make her a favorite in the Tulare County area for some of the most difficult classical works.  Performing works as diverse as coloratura opera repertoire to Bach's St. John's Passion, Lauren is always riveting and beautiful.  Here are her thoughts on performing with the Theater Arts Alliance in Puccini's masterwork, Madama Butterfly...


What made you decide to join the Butterfly cast?

I’ll pretty much sing anything that Puccini has written, given the chance! His music is what made me fall in love with opera over fifteen years ago! I was gifted a vintage copy of the Prima Donna album when I was in high school, and as I was flipping through the book I came across a piece by Puccini and I’ve been hooked ever since.

What is your vocal and theater training?
I have a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance and have a diverse performance background- I’ve been cast in lead roles in straight plays as well as musical works and enjoy both, immensely. Along with performing, I’ve been a musical director and/or accompanist for several performances as well. I enjoy being on both sides of the performance process.

What is your favorite part of a rehearsal process?
I really love the initial sight-reading part of rehearsal- I enjoy a musical challenge and testing myself. I also really enjoy the hustle at the end of the process where you’re not sure if everything is going to come together in time and then somehow, it always does!

How is Butterfly different and/or the same as other shows you've done?
I’ve not participated in any local opera performances since moving back to Visalia, so this will be my first one here in town! Although I’ve sung Puccini in recital settings, I’ve never performed even as much as a scene from one of his operas.

What is your favorite section of this opera?
My favorite part is Butterfly's “un bel di vedremo” aria because it’s absolutely magical.

What is your "day job" and other hobbies in life?
My “day job” is teaching voice and piano in various venues. I teach private lessons, I am on staff as a voice teacher at the Ruby Slipper Performing Arts Academy, and also an Associate Voice Teacher for College of the Sequoias. I’m an old soul so in my free time I enjoy sewing, needlework, designing and creating. I also have an online business where I source and resell vintage treasures!

What is your next musical project?
I will be performing as a soloist for the COS Chamber Chorale’s performance of Carmina Burana in May and as a soloist for Poulenc’s Gloria with the TAA in June. I’m really looking forward to both!

 Hear Lauren's beautiful voice and the rest of the #TAAButterfly cast March 4th and 6th at the Main Street Theater in Visalia!
Tickets at:  Brown Paper Tickets: Madama Butterfly

TAA Butterfly Spotlight: Ensemble Member Scott Rogers!

Ensemble member Scott Rogers is one of the best people to work with in the Tulare County theater community, and we are grateful whenever we win the fight with the Ag Show or planting or harvest and get to have him in a show!

Why did you decide to be part of Madama Butterfly?  
A different experience. I have never done an opera before, and what a great one to start with! 

What is your favorite part of the rehearsal process?
When it all starts to come together. I know that when I get the chills during rehearsal we are there and the audience is going to feel it too. 

You've been part of many shows; how is this one different? 
Butterfly is very different for me, not only is the music difficult, but memorizing and pronouncing Italian is hard! 

What is your favorite section as a singer?
I enjoy the men's chorus entrance section; not only do we (the tenors) get to trade off with the women, but also with the baritones as well. Then we swell together and hit the big high notes.

Scott in "real life" as a thriving Tulare County Farmer

What else interests you besides music and theater? I love to travel, especially with my family. I would like to visit all the great theaters around the world someday. 

Do you have any future goals in theater work? To keep working and getting better. I hope I can continue to do what I love. Live theater is so much fun. So much work but the rewards are great. 

Why perform?
 I love to make a connection with the audience, and make them feel what the composer wanted them to feel. 

Future theater projects? Not sure yet, "Chicago" would be a blast! We will see what the future brings.



See Scott Rogers and the rest of the #TAAButterfly cast March 4th and 6th at the Main Street Theater in Visalia! 
Tickets at:  Brown Paper Tickets: Madama Butterfly

 

Scott in the "Master of the House" scene in the LCA production of Les Miserables

TAA Butterfly Spotlight: Ensemble Member Kat Goodin!

How many people can say that their first experience doing theater is in an opera?  This is true for beautiful mezzo-soprano Kat Goodin.  Though she has sung choral masterworks such as Handel's Messiah, this is her first time putting on a character for the stage -- and it seems like she has been doing it all her life!

Why did you join the TAA Butterfly cast?  I wanted to join the cast because I love to sing! 

What is the best part of the rehearsal process?  I really love that moment when the group is working on a vocal piece and it just clicks, everything comes together. 

What are your other interests?  My day job is Speech-language pathologist, working in the school district with kids. Interests are music, cooking, and spending time with my family. I'm also a little addicted to clothing, shoes, and accessories. 

Why opera?  I believe music is universal. It brings dimension, healing, and purpose to life.

See Kat and the rest of the #TAAButterfly cast March 4th and 6th at the Main Street Theater in Visalia!  Tickets at Brown Paper Tickets -- Madama Butterfly

TAA Butterfly Spotlight: Ensemble/Uffiziale Adrian Oceguera

The Theater Arts Alliance production of Madama Butterfly is starting to take beautiful shape, and over the next few days I want to introduce the members of the cast, especially the fantastic chorus that provides some of the most exciting moments of the show! 

This spotlight is on Adrian Oceguera, an extremely talented tenor from Selma.  This is his first work in opera, and he has dived in wholeheartedly, even to the point of covering for the lead tenor during ensemble rehearsals!  Adrian also plays the secondary "Uffiziale" -- the official that oversees the marriage between Pinkerton and Cio-Cio San.  

What made you decide to join the Butterfly cast?
I have never, nor did I ever think I would, perform in an opera, and it seemed intriguing to me, so I took a jump and joined the cast. Plus, it was an easier decision knowing I could get my niece involved as well.

What is your favorite part of a rehearsal process?
My favorite part has always been learning a new song. The songs in this show have proven to be challenging, but are definitely helping everyone grow as musicians and people. 

How is Butterfly different and/or the same as other shows you've done? Well there's singing! While I've not been in many shows, almost all of them have involved singing. That's how they'd be the same. How they're different? Well, I'd say the difficulty has definitely been turned up a few notches, as well as it all being in a different language. 

What is your favorite section to sing? My favorite section is the one that starts with "Bello non e' in verita bello non e'," sung by the chorus. There are so many different parts going on at one time and you have to be perfect rhythmically and tonally for it to sound well. The challenge has been accepted by fellow singers and I. 

What is your "day job" and what are your other hobbies in life? I am a Software Developer for Madera Unified School District and I also own my own karaoke business. I consider myself a craft beer connoisseur and am also a competitive bowler. I've played in multiple bands throughout my time, playing both bass and guitar, and most recently opened up for mega bands from the 90's. So that was exciting! 

What is your next theater project? Right now, I am gearing up for multiple shows. After Butterfly, I am playing the title role, Frederich Frankenstein, in Young Frankenstein with Theater Arts Alliance and I will also be in Shrek! with the Raisin' Cain Players out of Selma, CA 

Come and see Adrian and the rest of the incredible Butterfly cast on March 4th and 6th at the Main Street Theater in Visalia! 
Tickets at:  Brown Paper Tickets: Madama Butterfly