God of Carnage - meet cast member Chuck Dluhy
Meet Chuck Dluhy, playing Michael Novak in LTA's upcoming God of Carnage!
Tell us a little bit about your character.
Michael Novak is the father of Henry who was injured by another boy during a playground altercation. He is very "blue collar", down to earth, laid back, somewhat of a bigot and tends to avoid confrontations. He appears to be a "yes man" to his wife early in the play, but then becomes very vocal and opinionated when threatened. After receiving several personal attacks on his character and masculinity from the other boy's parents, he's quick to anger and reveals other dark feelings that even his wife may be unaware of.
What have you learned about yourself in playing the role of Michael Novak?
That as an actor, you sometimes have to draw on those dark aspects of yourself that remain hidden and that you may not want to admit that you have them. This helps me provide a more authentic character to the audience.
What do you find appealing about your character and this show?
Since this black comedy has a simple plot, the play is actually more of a character study of human condition. This structure provides meaty roles for actors! I like playing Michael because of his somewhat Jekyll and Hyde personality. He can sometimes be as nice as can be, and then turn on you in an instant.
What were some of the challenges for you in working on God of Carnage?
In black comedy, it is challenging to walk that fine line between keeping it honest and real, but also going a little over the top to bring out the comedy when dealing with such serious subject matter. Also, all of the characters in this play are not very likeable people at times, so it was important for me to find Michael's vulnerabilities and humaneness so the audience can relate to him. And finally, this intense show is also mentally and physically exhausting to perform.
How does this show differ from other shows you have worked on?
I've done everything from musicals to dramas to all genres of comedy, so every show is different! This one requires a very strong intimacy among all four characters/actors which I really enjoy.
What do you want the audience to take away from this show?
As in real life, appearances can be deceiving. Everyone has a dark side that they tend to hide from others, but could surface at any moment when provoked.
How long have you been acting and what made you get involved with theatre? How did you get involved with LTA?
I've been acting, singing and dancing for 36 years. It all started when I was in my high school choir. Everyone was auditioning for the spring musical, so I said "why not?" I got "bit by the bug" and haven't stopped since. I've only worked at LTA twice before but I love coming back to this very professional working atmosphere.
What advice would you give others who are interested in working in theatre?
For actors, just audition, audition, audition! Go to as many as you possibly can. Don't be afraid to put yourself out there. We all get rejected, but many times you will also get the part. For technical folks, volunteer! Most theatre groups will train you and welcome you with open arms!
Tell us a little bit about your character.
Michael Novak is the father of Henry who was injured by another boy during a playground altercation. He is very "blue collar", down to earth, laid back, somewhat of a bigot and tends to avoid confrontations. He appears to be a "yes man" to his wife early in the play, but then becomes very vocal and opinionated when threatened. After receiving several personal attacks on his character and masculinity from the other boy's parents, he's quick to anger and reveals other dark feelings that even his wife may be unaware of.
What have you learned about yourself in playing the role of Michael Novak?
That as an actor, you sometimes have to draw on those dark aspects of yourself that remain hidden and that you may not want to admit that you have them. This helps me provide a more authentic character to the audience.
What do you find appealing about your character and this show?
Since this black comedy has a simple plot, the play is actually more of a character study of human condition. This structure provides meaty roles for actors! I like playing Michael because of his somewhat Jekyll and Hyde personality. He can sometimes be as nice as can be, and then turn on you in an instant.
What were some of the challenges for you in working on God of Carnage?In black comedy, it is challenging to walk that fine line between keeping it honest and real, but also going a little over the top to bring out the comedy when dealing with such serious subject matter. Also, all of the characters in this play are not very likeable people at times, so it was important for me to find Michael's vulnerabilities and humaneness so the audience can relate to him. And finally, this intense show is also mentally and physically exhausting to perform.
How does this show differ from other shows you have worked on?
I've done everything from musicals to dramas to all genres of comedy, so every show is different! This one requires a very strong intimacy among all four characters/actors which I really enjoy.
What do you want the audience to take away from this show?
As in real life, appearances can be deceiving. Everyone has a dark side that they tend to hide from others, but could surface at any moment when provoked.
How long have you been acting and what made you get involved with theatre? How did you get involved with LTA?
I've been acting, singing and dancing for 36 years. It all started when I was in my high school choir. Everyone was auditioning for the spring musical, so I said "why not?" I got "bit by the bug" and haven't stopped since. I've only worked at LTA twice before but I love coming back to this very professional working atmosphere.
What advice would you give others who are interested in working in theatre?
For actors, just audition, audition, audition! Go to as many as you possibly can. Don't be afraid to put yourself out there. We all get rejected, but many times you will also get the part. For technical folks, volunteer! Most theatre groups will train you and welcome you with open arms!
Tickets and info: www.thelittletheatre.com
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