The Little Theatre of Alexandria

What do you find appealing or interesting about your character and this show? Oh my . . . where to begin?   In Act I, Edith “has it all,” and by the time Act II begins, has lost it all, supposedly.   But not in her mind, as she still has a will of iron to survive as best she can.   And she does. What have you learned about yourself in playing the role of Edith Bouvier Beale? Vulnerability.   Edith doesn’t sound, look or act vulnerable, but she is.   She’s certainly controlling, but underneath that she is frightened and vulnerable. What single word would you use to describe your character in Grey Gardens? Survivor! What do you want the audience to experience/take away from this show? Compassion.   So often we are quick to pass judgment on people, their choices, and the resulting consequences.   Edith and Edie could (and were) called “crazy cat ladies,” and there is no denying that, but maybe there for the grace of God go all of us. How does this show dif

Meet Kate Brown playing Young Little Edie in LTA's Grey Gardens! What do you find appealing about your character and this show? I love that three women play Big Edie and Little Edie and that the first act takes place in a completely different time than the second act.  I also love the score.  I am truly fascinated by Edie, both who she was on camera for the documentary and as a girl, because she truly was the "it" girl, poised for take off, destined to have a glorious life.  I like how the show takes the audience on her journey. What single word would you use to describe Little Edie? Dreamer. What have you learned about yourself in playing this role? I am more grateful for the little things, like a clean cup and running water. What do you hope the audience takes away from Grey Gardens? I hope that the audience truly enjoys this true life musical.  I want the audience to feel they know these colorful characters, feel inspired by this amazing story, and laugh!

Meet Joel Respress who is playing Brooks Sr. and Brooks Jr. in LTA's Grey Gardens. What do you find interesting about this show? The story of Big Edie and Little Edie is fascinating... upper class to recluses. What have you learned about yourself in playing the role of Brooks? While my role is small, it helps support the story, so maintaining focus and matching the intensity of actresses who portray Little Edie in the first and second act is important. What single word would you use to describe your character? Glue. What do you want the audience to take away from this show? Just to feel the ups and downs, as well as the humor that is in Grey Gardens. How does Grey Gardens differ from other shows you have worked on? I have never worked with a small cast. How long have you been acting?  How did you get involved with LTA? I've been acting for sixteen years.  I got a late start so I learned on the job.  I started with voice lessons, then at the suggestion of my vo

What do you find appealing about your character and the show itself, Grey Gardens? My character, Jackie Bouvier, is such a well known figure in history and it is intriguing to explore what made her into the person she ultimately became.  In the play, there are a lot of foreshadowing details and glimpses into her future life and what will become of her.  The show itself is intricate and layered.  For example, one line that Little Edie speaks in the beginning of Act 1 becomes an important lyric in a song that helps to define her character in Act 2.  The deeper you dive into it, the more connections you see. What have you learned about yourself in playing your role? She is just a little younger than me at the time of this play, so I can definitely relate to her.  Of course, it is set in a very different time and place.  Jackie is a proper young lady, and she takes to heart a lot of the good advice her grandfather gives.  Playing her has given me a perspective on how to internalize adv