A Few Questions with Court of the Grandchildren Actor Sonia D’Andrea

Court of the Grandchildren opens April 8, 2022! In this production, it’s 2051, the older generation that accelerated climate change is being brought to trial. And climate activist Lily thinks she has it all figured out. Until she meets her great uncle, David, who changes her perspective completely. He’s a man from today. She’s a woman from tomorrow. How will she judge him?

We reached out to actor Sonia D’Andrea to find out more about her and her experience working on this production. 

1. What do you imagine 2051 will be like compared to how it's portrayed in the script?

Hopefully more flying cars and less global disaster! But honestly – there is a lot of bleak news when it comes to the future of the planet, but there are also people helping to affect lasting change. I remain cautiously optimistic.

2. Do you relate to your character or to any character in the show? How similar / different are you?

I think one of the best features of this play is the scope of relatability. The characters have a wide range of personality and response to crisis, from rage and demanding accountability to simply being present and trying to be as helpful as possible. All of it is valid and human.

3. Do you have any rituals you follow when rehearsing for or performing in a show?

For me, the first step is the most vital: simply showing up. The rest will follow.

4. Do you love or hate AI and "technology"? Why?

Living in the digital age is a mixed blessing. I feel very grateful to exist in a time of instant communication and more developed tech than we have ever seen. But it also seems to have hampered our attention spans and ability to connect more deeply with each other. And perhaps I’ve read too many sci-fi novels, but here’s hoping the rate of growth in the AI field doesn’t get out of hand!

5. How did you get into theatre?

When I was seven I played a mouse in a production of The Nutcracker, and I became instantly and permanently hooked on helping to tell stories. 

Biography 

Sonia has been performing on Asheville stages for the last two decades, including work with the Montford Park Players, Different Strokes, American Myth Center, and the Magnetic. When not onstage, she enjoys cooking, reading, and cuddles with her cat, Balky Bartokomous. Thank you for supporting local theatre!

Court of the Grandchildren is showing at The Magnetic Theatre in Asheville, NC April 8-23, 2022. Grab your tickets here: https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?show=132321