Midsummer for Haters is showing June 3-18, 2022! In this collaboration with Nemesis Theatre Company, Shakespeare’s beloved classic gets a new treatment by the people who can’t stand it, resulting in a kidnapped Amazon, mystified mortals, sadistic fairies, and mechanicals gone wild! Will any of them survive four nights in the magic forest?
We reached out to actor Lauren Otis to find out more about her and her experience working on this unique production!
What do you hate about Midsummer?
I hate that most actors and directors rarely play the ACTUAL stakes of what is happening, which makes me as an audience member not care about what is happening. Also, it's a stupid play.
Do you relate to your character or to any character in the show? How similar / different are you?
I relate to both characters for different reasons. I am a short, bold romantic like Hermia, but as I have matured, I have embraced more of the power of my sexuality as Titania does. Parts of both of these women exist in me.
Do you have any upcoming projects that we should check out?
Nothing yet...but stay tuned!
How is working with Nemesis different from working with other theatre companies?
It's very important to Melon that everyone has a full understanding of what is being said, so we have to do the work to ensure we know exactly what we are talking about at all times. Plus, it feels like a collaboration because the actors have the freedom to ask questions, try different things, and explore the characters ourselves WITH guidance and support.
Tell us about the experience of playing two different parts in two different Midsummers simultaneously.
It's challenging, which is something I enjoy. Exploring the differences in physicality, speech, and mannerisms has been really vital to creating a separation between both characters.
How do you feel about not knowing which version of the show you're doing until Egeus says his first line?
Definitely not pooping my pants. No. Definitely not.
Biography
Lauren is so excited to be a part of this dynamic and talented group of artists! Originally from Rochester NY, Lauren holds a BFA in Acting from Arcadia University and has been in Asheville for nearly a decade. Recent credits include Lydia Wickham in Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley, Tori Piper in Bloodbath: Victoria's Secret, Paula Justice in The Sparrow and the Whippoorwill, Virgilia/Ensemble in Coriolanus 2020, and Perdita in 16 Years Tried. Lauren wants to thank this amazing community for embracing her with open arms. Also, thank you Melon; your trust and belief in me means more than I can express. ENJOY THE SHOW!
Midsummer for Haters is showing June 3-18, 2022 at The Magnetic Theatre in Asheville, NC. Grab your tickets here: https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?show=134503