A Lighting Designer's Perspective

Even before the designing can begin, inspiration must be found for the designers to find an entry point into the visual world of the play they are creating. Below is lighter designer Michael Ekema-Nardella's words on how he began to find the lighting world for Sylvia. 

After reading the play I was immediately drawn to impressionist paintings for my research. Impressionists can so well show us something that we all know and allow us to see it in a new and different way, just like the world of the play. While gathering images I noticed how colors were used in many different ways. One painting may be done in mostly pastel and pale colors while others were vibrant and exploding with deep rich colors. From those differences I was able to form what the world of the play looks like. Greg and Kate are stuck in a world of little color and Sylvia helps to bring color back into their lives. When Greg meets Sylvia his world begins to fill with color, and as he becomes more infatuated with her the more colorful his world becomes. Sylvia represents color in Greg and Kate's fading world.

Meet Javier Padilla: Playing Tom

Can you briefly describe your journey to SDSU?

I transferred to SDSU last year from Fresno City College. Deciding on a university was tough but after visiting SDSU I really knew this is where I wanted to be. So I got on the 99 highway, passed the grapevine survived the 5 through LA, Stopped at an In-n-out, headed east on the 8 and took the college avenue exit and Here I am.

Who are your acting heroes? Is there anyone you find yourself channeling when you perform?

As an actor, channeling others isn't really something I do while performing. Although, many actors' performances really excite me and motive to work on my craft. I currently have acting crushes on Oscar Isaac, Sir Patrick Stewart, Sir Ian McKellen, Cillian Murphy, Tom Hardy Christof waltz and so on haha.

Do you have a pet? If so, how did you get it and what do you like most about it? If not, what would your ideal pet be?

YES! Back at my parents home I have three dogs and a cat. Ujiro, Lucy, Sweetpea, and Katiya. All three dogs are rescue dogs and the cat seemed to just come out of no where!!! It's okay though, the cat is totally a dog!

How do you go about finding a new character once you have been cast?

I believe the playwright gives you everything you need to know about your character. It's all in the text. After studying the script and really doing work on the text, I start to develop little personal details that aren't in the script but are driven by the content of the script. The character also has a life outside of the script. Everyone has a backstory and although the audience may never see or know some of that information, it is still part of what they will see on stage or in film.

Do you have a favorite role from past shows? What would that character say about this show? Would they be friends with your character?

This is really a hard question hahaha, every character is really different. I had the pleasure of playing the role of Chad from the play Almost, Maine by John Cariani. Chad is an interesting guy. I don't know how he would feel about the show. The town of Almost doesn't really have a big theatre scene. Chad would definitely be friends with Tom, he is just a friendly guy, ask Randy.

If you could live in New York, what borough would you live in? 

I personally would like to try out Manhattan, but I think that would be too Mainstream for Tom.

What are some unique challenges of your character?

My relationship with my wife is kind of an interesting one. I love my wife with all my heart. I love my Dog with all my heart as well. I know Bowser loves her and I know she loves him, but I don't think she loves him as much as he loves her. I've been thinking about that. How can you not love something that's soul purpose in life is to love you???

What is Sylvia about, to you?

For me Sylvia is about embracing the unexpected, seeing what curve balls life throws at you and really allowing yourself to keep on keeping on. Things may just jump into your lap and its up to you to take it and run with it! Although life can get chewed up and muddy, its loving life that really gets you through everything. Sylvia is a reminder of how  new and wonderful the unexpected can be.

Meet Xavier Scott: Playing Greg

Can you briefly describe your journey to SDSU?
I went to school in Texas my entire life, and during my senior year of high school, my dad got a job here in San Diego. I toured the campus a few times and really loved what I saw so I decided to make the move out here.

Who are your acting heroes? Is there anyone you find yourself channeling when you perform?
Denzel Washington and Daniel Day Lewis are two of my favorite actors of all time. I simply love the dedication and passion they bring to each of their roles. I don't really find myself trying to channel a particular actor as I've always been very keen on creating your own individual identity as an actor that sets you apart from everyone else.

Do you have a pet? If so, how did you get it and what do you like most about it? If not, what would your ideal pet be?
Personally, I have never owned a pet but I always thought it would be nice to own a husky. They seem like the coolest breed around so I feel it would be fun to own one or two.

How do you go about finding a new character once you have been cast?
I kind of just read the script through over and over and try out different personalities, quirks, etc to try and make my character as unique as possible while also keeping my performance within the logical realm of the play.

Do you have a favorite role from past shows? What would that character say about this show? Would they be friends with your character?
I think my favorite show would have to be The Laramie Project here at SDSU my sophomore year. It allowed me to show the most acting range and really helped me grow as an actor. Some of my characters from the show would probably be friends with Greg while others would just think he's not interesting enough to be around.

If you could live in New York, what borough would you live in?
Haven't been to New York yet but I would love to live somewhere close to Times Square so I could be around all that energy.

What are some unique challenges of your character?
Well I've never owned a dog and I've never been married before so getting into the mindset of having a wife and kids and creating all this back story for myself is a very welcoming challenge and just allows me to expand my horizons as an actor.

What is Sylvia about, to you?
Identity. Really discovering who you are and just trying to see where you fit in life. I feel that's a constant struggle for Greg at this point in his life, as well as Kate who is really coming into her own as a teacher but is struggling with the identity of her marriage with Greg once Sylvia comes into the picture.

Meet Samantha Santos: Playing Leslie

Can you briefly describe your journey to SDSU?
I first visited SDSU my sophomore year of high school for a college tour and instantly fell in love. When it ended up being my first acceptance letter to college I knew that it was meant to be that I attended this school.

Who are your acting heroes? Is there anyone you find yourself channeling when you perform?
My acting hero would have to be Barbara Streissand. She is such a natural actor and can make you laugh and cry all in the same movie. I often try to bring her witty and cheerful humor when playing a funny role.

Do you have a pet? If so, how did you get it and what do you like most about it? If not, what would your ideal pet be?
I unfortunately don’t think I would own a pet. I grew up with them not allowed in the house so I never really grew to love them. However, if we could have pet seahorses I would love to have one.

How do you go about finding a new character once you have been cast?
When auditioning, I give a surface level delivery of the character I am going for but when cast I can dive in deeper and find more personality traits and unique qualities that I can use to develop a richer and interesting character.

Do you have a favorite role from past shows? What would that character say about this show? Would they be friends with your character?
My favorite role in a past show would be when I played Amber in Hairspray. It was really fun to play someone who is opposite from me and I could really have fun being the mean character. She would probably hate this show and think everyone was just old and pathetic. She would definitely not be friends with my character because she is really girly, popular, and judgmental whereas I am boyish, quirky and like to help people.

If you could live in New York, what borough would you live in?
I don’t know New York very well but I would probably be somewhere in the middle class. I have a professional career and dress very well but I am not into the status quo or care about fitting in to society.

What are some unique challenges of your character?
I think the hardest challenge is not choosing a gender or acting more like one or the other but trying to be mysterious and not persuade the audience into deciding my gender.

What is Sylvia about, to you?
I think Sylvia is about the natural progression of life and getting older and not getting lost in a set way of life but exploring all that life can bring while on this earth and with other people. Also, to accept people for who they choose to be or what they choose to like and to not judge at first but learn along with them and find the good in things we don’t think we can care about.

Meet Kelsey Lynn: Playing Sylvia

Can you briefly describe your journey to SDSU?

Honestly, I didn’t put much thought into finding a good university to go to because I had thought it was off the table. I was going to attend community college because it was cheaper, and comfortable because it was close to home. However, my parents pushed me to apply places anyways. At that point I hadn’t put any thought into what school I wanted to attend, so I went to my best friend who had done all sorts of research on good colleges. So I basically just applied to all the places she did because she knew what she was doing. I almost didn’t apply to SDSU because I didn’t think I wanted to be so far south since in my career path, I would most likely end up in LA anyways, so I figured it would be best to build a basis closer to Los Angeles. But last minute I had a change of heart, decided to apply, auditioned, received my acceptance letter, and after touring all the other universities, SDSU just felt right. The minute I started the tour around campus and around the theatre department, with the one and only CJ Keith, I just knew it was where I was meant to be, and that SDSU would be my future home.

Who are your acting heroes? Is there anyone you find yourself channeling when you perform?

I am obsessed with Kristin Wiig, Amy Poehler, Melissa McCarthy, and Steve Carell. Anything and everything they do just kills me. They are all just so unique, talented, and hysterical that I can’t stop watching them. Each of them seem to be such genuine people who work incredibly hard at their craft that I can’t help but look up to them. I would like to say I try and channel their humor and comedic genius, but there is just no way to replicate their work.

Do you have a pet? If so, how did you get it and what do you like most about it? If not, what would your ideal pet be?

I have had a plethora of pets in my life. I have owned many types of fish, a rat, a hamster, a bunny, and two dogs. Unfortunately, the only one who is still alive is one of my dogs, Layla, who is my precious little gumdrop princess. She is basically me but in dog form. She is a little turd and I love her. My other doggie, Snowy, recently passed away, and I miss her terribly. She was a fantastic grumpy little thing, basically a living breathing Eeyore, but with a tendency to catch rodents and bring them into the house for us all to enjoy.

On the other hand, my ideal pet would definitely be a dragon, or a hippogriff.

How do you go about finding a new character once you have been cast?

I begin by reading the script several times, and first seeing how the character naturally formed in my head, and then how the character formed when I looked and accounted for how the author intended the character to be, as well as how the script provides me with clues and information on how to build this character. Then, I just offer my own humanity to bring the character to life.

Do you have a favorite role from past shows? What would that character say about this show? Would they be friends with your character?

I think my favorite role I have ever played was Elle Woods in Legally Blonde. She was just so perky and sassy and a go-getter that I heavily related to her, and it was just such a fun, kind of ridiculous over the top role to play. I think Sylvia and Elle are a lot alike, so much even that I could see them not liking each other because they are so alike in my eyes. But they also could be BFFs, so who really knows. But I would like to think that they would get along. I think Sylvia and Bruiser would make a good match.

If you could live in New York, what borough would you live in?  

I am actually not familiar with the east coast at all so I have absolutely no idea where I would want to live. However, I’d rather live in a suburb than a city because of those pesky one-way roads. They get me every time.  And because there are lots of people in cities and on occasion I just need a little break from constant human interaction.

What are some unique challenges of your character?

Having to be so high energy all the time is extremely challenging. I’m not sure how those Disney Channel actors do it. I am so incredibly exhausted after every rehearsal from smiling an insane amount, and running around the set and jumping up and down…. It’s definitely a work out. I see why dogs sleep so much.

What is Sylvia about, to you?

I think Sylvia is about the wonderful and strong relationship that people have with their dogs, and even just their pets in general. This incredible relationship can emerge in a matter of seconds, and then almost instantly, these animals become your greatest companion. Pets can bring us a certain joy and comfort that can’t be replicated or found anywhere else.  To me, that’s pretty amazing that a relationship as strong as one between man and animal can be created so quickly, and held so tightly. 

Rehearsal Room Terms

The rehearsal room can seem a foreign space to those new to the experience. Words are thrown about with ease that one may not encounter anywhere else in the same context. Below are a list of the terms used in Sylvia rehearsal over the last week, with short definitions.

Moment of Discovery: an instance of new understanding for the actor or character.

Get it on its feet: Take a scene from reading to allowing the actors to move around with the words.

Blocking: Deciding where the actors will stand and move in relationship to others and the set.

Stage Picture: The way a scene (the actors, set, and props) looks with consideration of the audience's perspective.

Power position: A place on stage that grants extra authority to a character.

Beat: A place of new discovery and decision.

Shape it: Work a scene with small changes to bring it closer to the desired outcome.

Exploration space: A place where actors can try new ideas.

Notes: Written reminders put into the script, often of blocking or motivation.

Cue: A line that prompts another line or action from a new character.

Let them lie: Leaving something alone to come back to at another time.

C.J. walking through blocking

Getting the scene on its feet

Taking Notes 

Meet Atessa McAleenan-Morrell: Playing Phyllis

Atessa McAleenan-Morrell

Can you briefly describe your journey to SDSU?

This is my second and last year at SDSU. I just transferred here from Diablo Valley College located in the bay area. My journey has been short but it is not over yet! My first year was tough but a good experience. I am excited to see what this New Year brings!

Who are your acting heroes? Is there anyone you find yourself channeling when you perform?

Some of my acting heroes are, Lucille Ball, Audrey Hepburn, Raven Symone, Barbara Streisand, Meryl Streep,Robin Williams, and a few more here and there. I do not channel any person or actor when I perform.

Do you have a pet? If so, how did you get it and what do you like most about it? If not, what would your ideal pet be?

 I have two cats, a dog, some fish, and a turtle back home. My ultimate favorite animal and pet is a cat. I love them because they are cuddly, soft, and always have different personalities and a mind of their own. My dream pet is a cheetah.

How do you go about finding a new character once you have been cast?

How I go about finding a character is first and foremost, looking to the script. I gather as much information possible about my character from the script. I take note of what is said about me by other characters and what I say about myself. Then, based off all that character research, do some more research and start to build my character.

Do you have a favorite role from past shows? What would that character say about this show? Would they be friends with your character?

My favorite role of a past show would have to be playing the Wicked Witch of the West in The Wizard of Oz. She was a character I thought I would never play so getting to play her was an amazing, unique experience.  What the witch would say about this show is probably,” I hate dogs! I’d much prefer a flying monkey.” And no she would not be friends with Phyllis.

If you could live in New York, what borough would you live in?  

If I had to choose a borough to live in, it would be Manhattan because it has all the fun busy stuff to do. I like big cities.

What are some unique challenges of your character?

I’d say my most unique challenge would have to be my character being a recovering alcoholic.

What is Sylvia about, to you?

I think Sylvia is about friendship coming in all shapes and sizes and sometimes unexpected. Sometimes friendships can save your life and change it for the better. 

Meet Rebecca Hustedde: Playing Kate

Rebecca Hustedde 

Can you briefly describe your journey to SDSU?

I transferred to SDSU as a junior last fall, so this is my second and final year here. I was exploring different theatre programs throughout California and after the Explore SDSU event in spring 2014, I knew this was the place I wanted to be at.

Who are your acting heroes? Is there anyone you find yourself channeling when you perform?

The list is huge, because there are so many talented actors that I respect and admire. Some of my favorites though are Jonny Depp, Lena Headey, and Julianne Moore. Channeling other actors when I perform isn't something that I do, but I thoroughly enjoy watching the performances of these actors.

Do you have a pet? If so, how did you get it and what do you like most about it?

I have several pets, actually! There are four doggies at home that I love so, so much. There are two German Shepherds, Hanna and Andel, and two little Yorkies, Tiki and Leila. All of them have their own, unique personality, but they are unfailingly loving. They live in my hometown with my family, so I only get to see them when I visit. I miss them everyday, but they get so excited when I come home! Especially my little Tiki. My boyfriend even got me a t-shirt with her picture on it for my birthday! I love my pups so much!

How do you go about finding a new character once you've been cast?

I think that everything you need to know about your character is in your script somewhere. The playwright puts all of the important information in there. After I've thoroughly studied the script and gleaned all of information that the playwright wants me to know, anything I create for my character is for my own, personal understanding of her. The audience will never know all of things that I've thought of for my character that aren't included in the script, but that's what makes my interpretation of her different from another actor's.

Do you have a favorite role from past shows? What would that character say about this show? Would they be friends with your character?

I loved playing Gayle in Almost, Maine by John Carani. I think Kate would find her naïve and endearing if ever they were to meet and would admire Gayle's tenacity and fearlessness in committing to getting what she wants.

If you could live in New York, what borough would you live in?

The Bronx. Bronx was the name of the dog-like gargoyle in the Disney Channel series Gargoyles and he was my favorite.

What are some unique challenges of your character?

Well I think dealing with a significant other who is completely consumed by and obsessed with something outside of their relationship is something that some people may be able to identify with. However, I'm not sure if anyone has ever had their significant other fixated on Greg's particular distraction. Well, maybe Edward Albee knows something about the subject.

What is Sylvia about, to you?

Sylvia is the discovery that even when you truly want what is best for someone, you may not actually know what that "best" is (even if you think you do!). It's important to think outside of your own idea of "best" and consider the unexpected. Life can be pleasantly surprising if you are willing to move forward blindfolded for a little while.  

Design Presentations and First Rehearsal

There is something truly energizing about a first meeting after summer break, and that paired with the first meeting of a new show, made for a room full of excited energy. The evening began with design presentations, as the designers showed us all they had been working on, walking us through their process and giving time for any questions there may be about what we were seeing. Director, C.J., described the space as an, "ordered, urban, lovely, simple, elegant apartment." This could be reflected in the set design, lighting, and costuming. However, she continued, "Sylvia comes and changes that," and seeing the visual transition was truly exhilarating. Once we had seen the visual world, C.J. and the actors got to work on their first rehearsal. Following are some pictures from these meetings. More specific design pictures will be added to this blog in a later post.

Director C.J. with SM Alex and ASM Nia preparing to begin.

Set Designer David shows us his model and 3D renderings 

The cast and designers take some time to look. 

Costume Designers Maria and Carmon walk us through the characters' costumes

Fabric Swatches. 

Sound Designer Brianna gives us a taste of the show's music. 

Rehearsal begins.