Actor Spotlight – Tagg Smith as King Arthur in PTIV’s “Spamalot”

Tagg Smith makes his PTIV debut in Spamalot

Tagg Smith may be new to the Pontiac Theatre IV stage, but he’s no stranger to local theater – and we’re thrilled to have him! Tagg brings the lovably daft King Arthur (played by Graham Chapman in Monty Python and the Holy Grail and Tim Curry in the original Broadway production of Spamalot) to life in our production – keep on reading to learn more about him!

Q. You’re playing King Arthur in PTIV’s production of Spamalot. How would you describe this character? Is he anything like you?
A. Arthur seems to be a little misunderstood. He can’t understand why people don’t respect the fact that he is king. I guess I’m a little like Arthur in the sense that everyone usually laughs at me without me knowing it.

Q. What made you come out and audition for Spamalot?
A. I’ve always been a big fan of Monty Python. I also knew Steven from my days with Clarkston Village Players and have always wanted to be in one of his shows.

Q. What’s your favorite song and/or scene in Spamalot?
A. I just love the irony of “I’m All Alone”. Only King Arthur could be so dense to see that he is never alone. OK, it’s also my favorite because I get to sing the whole song.

Q. What’s your favorite Monty Python film?
A. Obviously, I think Monty Python and the Holy Grail is my favorite. Also loved Meaning of Life.

Q. How long have you been involved in theater? What are some of your other favorite roles?
A. Performed with Clarkston Village Players from 99-2001. Took a break and got back on stage a couple of years ago. It’s just like riding a bike. Favorite roles – Bo Decker in Bus Stop, Dr. Lyman Sanderson in Harvey, Lazar Wolf in Fiddler on the Roof, Mr. Bumble in Oliver!, and of course, King Arthur.

Q. Spamalot‘s theme, of course, is “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life.” How do you relate to that?
A. I guess I try to go by the philosophy that no matter what I am going through, there is always someone who has been through it and made it out the other side.

Q. Tell us a little about your life outside theater.
A. I’ve been married to my lovely wife, Sharilyn, for 19 years. We live in Waterford, and have a daughter, Shelby, who is 12. Our son Drew is 9. By day, I am a Network Administrator for an automotive supplier in Auburn Hills. I also perform kids music as part of duo know as Zippity2Dads. We play for a lot of fairs/festivals/libraries/schools, etc. It has been a blast. I also love playing golf and coaching my kids’ sports.

Q. Finally…do you eat SPAM?
A. Do I? No. Am I willing to learn? Absolutely. Will they send me someplace special?

Pontiac Theatre IV’s production of Spamalot opens November 8th and runs through November 16th. Visit our website or Facebook page for more information, and make sure you check back here for more cast spotlights and show news!

Actor Spotlight – McKinley Shaw as Sir Galahad in PTIV’s “Spamalot”

Mack Shaw brings his past theater experience and great sense of humor to Spamalot

McKinley (Mack) Shaw plays two extremely well-known Python characters in PTIV’s production of Spamalot: the politically aware Dennis, who later becomes the dashing Sir Galahad (originated by Michael Palin in Monty Python and the Holy Grail), and the stubbornly tenacious Black Knight (originally played by John Cleese), who utters the famous line “’tis but a scratch!” Read his interview below to learn more about his extensive theater background, as well as his thoughts on Spamalot itself!

Q. What made you come out and audition for Spamalot?
A. The fun of getting to work with nice and talented people; both among my fellow actors as well as an amazing production team. I consider myself extremely lucky to be among such great people.

Q. What’s your favorite song and/or scene in Spamalot?
A. Favorite song? “You Won’t Succeed on Broadway [If you Don’t Have Any Jews].” Favorite scene? Odd as it sounds, the scene with the guards and Prince Herbert’s father, with orders to make sure he (Prince Herbert) doesn’t leave.

Q. What’s your favorite Monty Python film?
A. Monty Python and the Holy Grail was the way I was introduced to Python, so it holds a special spot in my heart, although I must say Live at the Hollywood Bowl comes in at a close second.

Q. How long have you been involved in theater? What are some of your other favorite roles?
A. I’ve been acting for over 12 years now, Spamalot will be my 44th show. My favorite roles?…I’ll keep this list as short as I can: Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (Jekyll & Hyde), Sky Masterson (Guys & Dolls), Leo Bloom (The Producers), The Baker (Into the Woods), The Pirate King (Pirates of Penzance), The Beast (Beauty and the Beast), Edward Rutledge (1776), Puck (A Midsummer Night‘s Dream), and the times I got to play as myself (The Complete Works of William Shakespeare – Abridged)…believe me, that list is short.

Q. Spamalot‘s theme, of course, is “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life.” How do you relate to that?
A. I wish I could say that I do, but I can’t honestly say that. I try, dear God do I try, but I can’t block every little thing. Truth be told, it helps mostly that I have good friends that can help me through the tougher things in life.

Q. Tell us a little about your life outside theater.
A. With acting being such a big factor in my life, I don’t have much in the way of other hobbies (aside from video games, reading, sketching/drawing, and just hanging out with friends, but that last one isn’t really a hobby). My Mom and my Dad are both happy both in their lives and their locations (Mom in Ohio, Dad in Florida); my brother, Daniel (who also performs on occasion), is still in Michigan, and I keep very close contact with him. I’ve been with Shayna, my fiancée (who is also in Spamalot as a Laker Girl and Tim the Enchanter), for 11 years. We met on the stage, are getting married on the stage, and we’ll bow together at the end.

Q. Finally…do you eat SPAM?
A. HA! Hahahahahaha!…wait, seriously?! No! Dear God no!

Pontiac Theatre IV’s production of Spamalot opens November 8th and runs through November 16th. Visit our website or Facebook page for more information, and make sure you check back here for more cast spotlights and show news!

Actor Spotlight – Jen Talas (Ensemble) in PTIV’s “Spamalot”

Jen Talas steps on stage for the first time in a year in Spamalot

Jen Talas is no stranger to theater world – she has been involved in some capacity for many years. But after taking a brief hiatus for much of the year, she is finally back to performing as a very busy member of the ensemble in PTIV’s Spamalot. Learn more about Jen below!

Q. You’re a member of the Female Ensemble in PTIV’s production of Spamalot, which means you’re playing many characters! How would you describe them? Are any of them like you?
A. I’m playing a Laker Girl, a Monk, the French painter, and a Knight of Ni. They’re all fun so far, but they’re far more active than I am in real life.

Q. What made you come out and audition for Spamalot?
A. I love Monty Python and it has been far too long since I’ve been on the stage.

Q. What’s your favorite song and/or scene in Spamalot?
A. My favorite scene is the French Taunter scene, and my favorite song is “His Name Is Lancelot.”

Q. What’s your favorite Monty Python film?
A. Monty Python and the Meaning of Life. 

Q. How long have you been involved in theater? What are some of your other favorite roles?
A. I’ve been involved in theater since 1996. My favorite roles have been a witch in the Scottish Show, Catherine in The Foreigner and a Red Rat girl in Jekyll and Hyde.

Q. Spamalot‘s theme, of course, is “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life.” How do you relate to that?
A. Ask me tomorrow. 😉

Q. Tell us a little about your life outside theater.
A. My husband Scott and I have three young children – Faelene, Lillian, and Franklin. I work at a small law firm during the day, and in my spare time I enjoy spending time with friends and family, swimming, reading (especially Tolkien), and coffee. Lots and lots of coffee.

Q. Finally…do you eat SPAM?
A. NO!!!! That is the most disgusting substance on the planet!!!

Pontiac Theatre IV’s production of Spamalot opens November 8th and runs through November 16th. Visit our website or Facebook page for more information, and make sure you check back here for more cast spotlights and show news!

Actor Spotlight – Camy Sylvestre as the Lady of the Lake in PTIV’S “Spamalot”

Camy Sylvestre channels a very different side of herself to play the outrageous Lady of the Lake in Spamalot

Though the Lady of the Lake does not make an appearance in Spamalot‘s source material, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, she certainly plays a large role in Arthurian legend – but never quite like this. Check out Camy Sylvestre’s take on her character below.

Q. You’re playing the Lady of the Lake in PTIV’s production of Spamalot. How would you describe this character? Is she anything like you?
A. The Lady is a fabulous diva who uses her mystical powers to help Arthur and the Knights with their quest to find the grail. She’s strong and smart (after all, she’s the only one who really knows how the show will end), but also completely ridiculous and over-the-top when she feels she’s not getting the attention she deserves. I HOPE I’m not too much like her – I’d like to think I’m a little more down-to-earth. But then again, we’re both strong ladies who are always there for the people we care about.

Q. What made you come out and audition for Spamalot?
A. I’ve always liked Monty Python a lot, but I saw the show at St. Dunstan’s over the summer and that’s what really sold me. Everyone did a great job and it looked like they were having so much fun. Plus, I’d never pass up the chance to work with this production team.

Q. What’s your favorite song and/or scene in Spamalot?
A. My favorite song is probably “Find Your Grail” – it’s inspirational, pretty, and watching the guys ride around on their invisible horses is always entertaining. My favorite scenes are a tie between when we first meet Prince Herbert, any time we hear Robin’s minstrels, and the French Taunters.

Q. What’s your favorite Monty Python film?
A. Life of Brian. It’s a brilliant satire (you know it’s gotta be good if it was banned). I also love that George Harrison mortgaged his house to help finance the movie, just because he wanted to see it. AND it’s where “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life” comes from!

Q. How long have you been involved in theater? What are some of your other favorite roles?
A. I’ve been involved in theater on and off since high school. My favorite roles have been Inga in Young Frankenstein, Cinderella AND Cinderella’s Stepmother in Into the Woods, a Bad Idea Bear in Avenue Q, Erica in subUrbia, and Tzeitel in Fiddler on the Roof.

Q. Spamalot‘s theme, of course, is “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life.” How do you relate to that?
A. Life can be downright terrible sometimes – all you can really do is find the humor in it and just keep truckin’ when things are out of your control. I can’t whistle though, so what do I know?

Q. Tell us a little about your life outside theater.
A. By day, I work in marketing research as an online community coordinator specializing in qualitative techniques. In my spare time I love reading, spending time with friends, exploring the outdoors with my basset hound Paulie, yoga, and learning useless facts for bar trivia games. I’m also hugely passionate about art and history and spend a lot of time studying up on those subjects.

Q. Finally, do you eat SPAM?
A. I just had it for the first time last week courtesy of our director, Steve. It was less gross than I expected, but I doubt I’ll be craving it anytime soon!

Pontiac Theatre IV’s production of Spamalot opens November 8th and runs through November 16th. Visit our website or Facebook page for more information, and make sure you check back here for more cast spotlights and show news!

Actor Spotlight – Eric Brunk (Ensemble) in PTIV’s “Spamalot”

Eric Brunk lends his talents to many classic Monty Python characters in Spamalot

The lead Knight Who Says Ni. Sir Not Appearing in This Show. The beleaguered father of Herbert. Eric Brunk plays all these classic, hilarious characters (and more!) in PTIV’s production of Spamalot. Learn more about him below!

Q. You’re a member of the Male Ensemble in PTIV’s production of Spamalot, which means you’re playing many characters! How would you describe them? Are any of them like you?
A. Sir Not Appearing in This Show: Wants to fit in and be a part of everything, but is not accepted as a part of the group. I think we can all empathize with this character. Don’t we all want to be a part of a group (especially the cool group)?

The leader of the Knights Who Say Ni: A knight who has been in seclusion with his fellow Knights of Ni for far too long and has lost his grip on reality. Often in my own little world, the role seems to fit me just fine.

Herbert’s Father: A father who wants what he thinks is the best for his son – I have two boys myself, and while I want what is best for them, I realize that they have their own dreams.

Kevin: A peasant who is in the service of Sir Robin, and several other chorus parts.

Q. What made you come out and audition for Spamalot?
A. I have always been a fan of Monty Python, and thought this would be a great show to be a part of. So far it has been a blast!

Q. What’s your favorite song and/or scene in Spamalot?
A. “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life” is my favorite song in the show, but the Knights of Ni has always been my favorite skit.

Q. What’s your favorite Monty Python film?
A. Life of Brian.

Q. How long have you been involved in theater? What are some of your other favorite roles?
A. I have been singing onstage since high school and I have worked backstage in sound and lighting since college, but I have only been on stage in an acting capacity for the last couple of years – since my boys talked me into auditioning for a play they were in. My favorite role so far has been Mr. Beaver in Pontiac Theater IV’s production of Narnia – the Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Everyone has told me since that show that I make a great beaver.

Q. Spamalot‘s theme, of course, is “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life.” How do you relate to that?
A. That is, for the most part, the theme song for my life – I try to always look on the bright side of life.

Q. Tell us a little about your life outside theater.
A. We are a theatrical family – my wife Toni runs Take a Stroll Down Memory Lane, a company that creates embroidery, silkscreen and other products to go along with shows produced by a number of local theater groups, and we often volunteer in some capacity when our boys are in productions. I am a network engineer by trade, but I also run sound and lights for our church, and have run sound on a number of theater productions. Hobbies include model railroading, RC models, and sailing.

Q. Finally…do you eat SPAM?
A. Every chance that I get.

Pontiac Theatre IV’s production of Spamalot opens November 8th and runs through November 16th. Visit our website or Facebook page for more information, and make sure you check back here for more cast spotlights and show news!

Actor Spotlight – Tony Castellani as Sir Lancelot in PTIV’s “Spamalot”

Tony Castellani returns to the stage after a long hiatus in PTIV’s “Spamalot”

Tony Castellani has been a member of the Pontiac Theatre IV family for many years, and the group is thrilled to welcome him back to the stage. Whether he’s playing the fearless knight with a softer side, Sir Lancelot (originally played by John Cleese in Monty Python and the Holy Grail), or the outrageously hilarious French Taunter, he brings his all to his roles. Find out more about Tony in his interview below!

Q. You’re playing Sir Lancelot and the French Taunter in PTIV’s production of Spamalot. How would you describe these characters? Are they anything like you?
A. They are both tons of fun, but neither role is really like me…which I suppose is a good thing…since I’m neither homicidally brave nor do I try to taunt with flatulence and raspberries.

Q. What made you come out and audition for Spamalot?
A. I’m a lifelong fan of Monty Python and I had the great fortune of seeing Spamalot on its pre-Broadway run in Chicago in 2005. I also love the Theatre IV family and I recently moved into the area where we rehearse. The stars aligned and that was that!

Q. What’s your favorite song and/or scene in Spamalot?
A. Favorite scene: the French Taunter scene. Favorite song/dance: “His Name Is Lancelot.”

Q. What’s your favorite Monty Python film?
A. Monty Python and the Holy Grail.

Q. How long have you been involved in theater? What are some of your other favorite roles?
A. I’ve been doing theater most of my adult life. Of a few hundred roles, Riff in West Side Story, Rum Tum Tugger in Cats, Frank-N-Furter in The Rocky Horror Show, Macbeth in Macbeth, and the Emcee in Cabaret are faves.

Q. Spamalot‘s theme, of course, is “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life.” How do you relate to that?
A. Life is about attitude…unless you’re already dead. But if you’re not dead yet…look on the bright side of life!

Q. Tell us a little about your life outside theater.
A. I’m a school counselor, former theater teacher, happy husband, and I love fitness.

Q. Finally…do you eat SPAM?
A. I don’t recall ever having eaten SPAM…but there’s a lot of things I don’t remember.

Pontiac Theatre IV’s production of Spamalot opens November 8th and runs through November 16th. Visit our website or Facebook page for more information, and make sure you check back here for more cast spotlights and show news!

Actor Spotlight – Shayna Lax (Ensemble) in PTIV’s “Spamalot”

Shayna Lax adds to her extensive theater resume by playing many ensemble roles in Spamalot

Shayna Lax is not only an experienced actor who’s spent many years in community theater, but she’s also a huge Monty Python fan – Spamalot is a natural fit! Scroll down to read more about her and the many roles she plays in PTIV’s production.

Q. You’re a member of the Female Ensemble in PTIV’s production of Spamalot, which means you’re playing many characters! How would you describe them? Are any of them like you?
A. Tim the Enchanter is very wise, but nobody ever listens to him until it’s too late. Sounds just like me! As for the Laker Girls, they’re backing up someone sexy and talented: sounds a lot like me too.

Q. What made you come out and audition for Spamalot?
A. I’m a Pythonian from waaaay back. The 16-ton box set [of ‘Monty Python’s Flying Circus’] is the jewel of my DVD collection. Well, that and my signed copy of The Two Towers, extended edition. Yes, yes, I can hear you screaming “NEEEEERRRRDD.”

Q. What’s your favorite song and/or scene in Spamalot?
A. Favorite song has gotta be “You Won’t Succeed on Broadway [If You Don’t Have Any Jews].” Being half Jewish myself, this song has personal meaning. The fact that it’s being sung by one of the most Jewish men I know is a huge bonus.

Q. What’s your favorite Monty Python film?
A. Monty Python and the Meaning of Life. It’s a beautiful capstone to all things Python. And includes a horrifying sex scene with John Cleese.

Q. How long have you been involved in theater? What are some of your other favorite roles?
A. Fifteen years of work, and what do I have to show for it? Fruma Sarah (Fiddler on the Roof), Ulla (The Producers) Martha Jefferson (1776), Lucy (Sweeney Todd, the Demon Barber of Fleet Street), a Bad Idea Bear (Avenue Q), and Feste (The 12th Night). Hmmm. That’s actually not bad.

Q. Spamalot‘s theme, of course, is “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life.” How do you relate to that?
A. Well, I’m more of a pessimist. As Ben Franklin said, “I’d rather be a pessimist because then I can only be pleasantly surprised.” So, I’m either right or pleasantly surprised. That’s a big bright side!

Q. Tell us a little about your life outside theater.
A. I’m engaged to Galahad (we’ve been dating for 11 years), I’m currently interning at a small law firm, and as for hobbies…I blog, read, work on manuscripts, do an occasional YouTube video, and watch a loooooooooooooooooooooot of horror movies.

Q. Finally…do you eat SPAM?
A. Sorry, not Kosher. Definitely a convenient time to be Jewish!

Pontiac Theatre IV’s production of Spamalot opens November 8th and runs through November 16th. Visit our website or Facebook page for more information, and make sure you check back here for more cast spotlights and show news!

Actor Spotlight – Michael Nunley (Ensemble) in PTIV’s “Spamalot”

Michael Nunley brings the funny (and his impeccable Cockney accent) to Spamalot

Michael (Grymn) Nunley channels many different sides of himself to play various characters in Spamalot, but one that’s always present is his great sense of humor. Check out what he has to say about the show below!

Q. You’re a member of the Male Ensemble in PTIV’s production of Spamalot, which means you’re playing many characters! How would you describe them? Are any of them like you?
A. I’m Guard 1, a Laker Girl, just general ensemble. You know, picking up the slack and such.

Q. What made you come out and audition for Spamalot?
A. How could I not have auditioned for this show? I mean, seriously, have you seen any Monty Python? The movies are just too funny and fun to watch.

Q. What’s your favorite song and/or scene in Spamalot?
A. Why are you trying to make me pick a favorite? Haven’t you heard that you’re not supposed to tell children that you have a favorite, let alone say which one it is?

Q. What’s your favorite Monty Python film?
A. Again with the favorites? Ah well, if I must, I must. “The Meaning of Life.”

Q. How long have you been involved in theatre? What are some of your other favorite roles?
A. I would have to say that in one form or another, I have been doing “this” since I was seven. I can’t choose a favorite role, mainly because I can’t remember most of them.

Q. Spamalot‘s theme, of course, is “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life.” How do you relate to that?
A. My name is “Grymn,” do you really think that I do that? I suppose if I had to think about it, I would say that I just keep chugging along.

Q. Tell us a little about your life outside theatre.
A. My friends are my family. Traditionally, I am a server, but presently am looking for a job. As far as favorite hobbies go, I am a typical red-blooded American male nerd. I like video games, card games, comics, reading (learning and sci-fi), and movies of all sorts.

Q. Finally…do you eat SPAM?
A. Um…what? Ewwwwwwww. No! I hate SPAM, with a deep-seeded, undying, wretched passion of doom and stuff.

Pontiac Theatre IV’s production of Spamalot opens November 8th and runs through November 16th. Visit our website or Facebook page for more information, and make sure you check back here for more cast spotlights and show news!

Actor Spotlight – Udi Kapen as Sir Robin in PTIV’S “Spamalot”

Udi Kapen sings and dances his way through Spamalot as the not-so-brave, musical theatre-loving Sir Robin  

Sir Robin the Not-Quite-So-Brave-as-Sir-Lancelot is a classic character from Monty Python and the Holy Grail, originally played by Spamalot creator Eric Idle. From the symbolic chicken on his armor to his minstrels’ ballads detailing his many acts of cowardice, Sir Robin is bound to inspire laughs. But when played by Udi Kapen, he’s also bound to display some fantastic singing and dancing! Check out Udi’s thoughts on his character below.

Q. You’re playing Sir Robin in PTIV’s production of Spamalot. How would you describe this character? Is he anything like you?
A. Robin wants to accomplish something special in life, but is in way over his head when he tries to accomplish it by becoming one of King Arthur’s Knights of the Round Table. It’s only when he learns to be true to himself, to go with his strengths, that he finds a way to realize his potential. I’d like to think I have a bit more courage than Robin when faced with danger (I’ve at least never soiled my pants out of sheer terror), but like Robin, I believe I know how to go with what I know, and in that way, to get the most out of what I have.

Q. What made you come out and audition for Spamalot?
A. As soon as I heard PTIV was putting on Spamalot, I knew I was going to audition. I’ve loved Monty Python for decades, and Spamalot is perhaps the funniest show I’ve ever seen. Being in this show is the next best thing to being one of the Pythoners.

Q. What’s your favorite song and/or scene in Spamalot?
A. My favorite song would be a tie between “The Song That Goes Like This,” (brilliantly funny) and the song I get to sing, “You Won’t Succeed on Broadway If You Don’t Have Any Jews” (also brilliantly funny, and a humorous nod to the long-standing Jewish presence and tradition in American theatre). My favorite scene is probably the French taunters at the castle. I can watch that again and again and fall down laughing every time.

Q. What’s your favorite Monty Python film?
A. My favorite Python film is Life of Brian. Wonderful parody of and satiric comment on religion.

Q. How long have you been involved in theatre? What are some of your other favorite roles?
A. I’ve been doing community theatre for a good 20 years, but I just uncovered some footage of my first starring role, Tommy in my 2nd grade production of Forest Fantasy. So I’d have to say I’ve been in theatre for almost 40 years. Some favorite roles have been: Fagin in Oliver, Tin Man in The Wizard of Oz, Allen in Play It Again Sam, Leo in The Producers, and Curly in Oklahoma.

Q. Spamalot‘s theme, of course, is “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life.” How do you relate to that?
A.  I think “Always Look On the Bright Side of Life” is a very philosophical song from which a lot of us could learn. Unfortunately, life sometimes really is a piece of sh*%. But the trick is figuring out how to put the best spin on the worst circumstance. It’s possible to find a bright side to just about any situation, and I think I’m pretty good at doing just that.

Q. Tell us a little about your life outside theatre.
A. I’m a pediatrician by trade, practicing for over 15 years. I’ve been married to my lovely wife Debi for almost 18 years, and we have a wonderful daughter, Kayla, who is a junior in high school (and with whom I’ve been privileged to share the stage in five different productions). In my spare time, I love rowing, reading, bicycling, snorkeling, and of course, acting in community theatre.

Q. Finally, do you eat SPAM?
A. I have never even tasted Spam in my life. I’m waiting for the good folks at Hormel to come out with a kosher variety.

Pontiac Theatre IV’s production of Spamalot opens November 8th and runs through November 16th. Visit our website or Facebook page for more information, and make sure you check back here often for more cast spotlights and show news!

Actor Spotlight – Mary Webster (Ensemble) in PTIV’S “Spamalot”

Mary Webster tries on many hats as a member of the Women’s Ensemble

Mary Webster, as a member of the Women’s Ensemble, appears in just about every memorable scene in Spamalot – and often as completely different characters! Check out her interview below for her take on her many roles.

Q. You are a member of the Women’s Ensemble in PTIV’s production of Spamalot. Which specific characters are you playing? How would you describe them, and are any of them like you?
A. I am playing a Finnish Fisch Slapper, a Laker Girl, one of Robin’s Minstrels, a Knight Who Says Ni, the mime in the French Taunter scene, and the Hay Lady. I can relate because I have my quiet, goofy, punny moments and I definitely cheer on others.

Q. What made you come out and audition for Spamalot?
A. After many years of doing kid-centered things as a teacher and a mom, I wanted to sing and dance and laugh a lot!

Q. What’s your favorite song and/or scene in Spamalot?
A. It’s a tie between the French Taunters (Tony [Castellani] and Mike [Brody] are hilarious), and maybe Herbert’s scenes.

Q. What’s your favorite Monty Python film?
A. “Monty Python and the Holy Grail.”

Q. How long have you been involved in theatre? What are some of your other favorite roles?
A. I have loved it since 1st grade, when I was a Christmas Cookie. I did a lot of theatre in high school and even a little in undergrad (*cough* 20 some years ago). I also dabbled in it with my daughter in PTIV’s children production of “Narnia.” My favorite role is Lila in “Here Comes the Groom” in 8th grade.

Q. Tell us a little about your life outside theatre.
A. I have been married for 19 years and have 3 kids – a 12-year-old boy, 9-year-old girl and 9-year-old boy. I am a Reading Recovery/Reading Interventionist working with elementary students in Rochester Public Schools. My hobbies include swimming, visiting with friends and family, drinking coffee and watching movies (mostly independent).

Q. Finally, do you eat SPAM?
A. NO! Gross!

Pontiac Theatre IV’s production of Spamalot opens November 8th and runs through November 16th. Visit our website or Facebook page for more information, and make sure you check back here often for more cast spotlights and show news!