The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald is one of the greatest and well-loved novels written in 20th century America. It has been made into a hit Broadway musical, and the national tour plays Citizens Opera House in Boston July 7-19. It tells the story of wealth and decadence during the Roaring 20s on Long Island.
Stages recently caught up with cast member Edward Staudenmayer to learn about him and the show. Here are his answers.
Stages: Tell us about yourself and your love of theatre.
Staudenmayer: I am one of the principal actors in the upcoming THE GREAT GATSBY National Tour. I’ve been a professional actor for over 30 years. I would say my love of performing started early on, making the family watch me perform Barry Manilow‘s “Copacabana” in the living room. I still know the choreography, but my love of theater developed in high school. I had a wonderful teacher and a fabulous theater department. My senior year I received accolades and was able to attend a good theater school. UCLA. I still get surprised at how much I can be moved by the power of theater on people. I think that it is so beautiful that we as a human race put on these performances, and entertain each other, and tell stories to help us escape from our problems in the world. It’s just such a beautiful quality about humanity. Over the years, performing has become both a creative outlet and a way to continually challenge myself as an artist and storyteller.
Stages: What roles have you loved and what are some that you would like to play in the future?
Staudenmayer: Some of my favorite roles include the title role in THE SCARLET PIMPERNEL, Gaston in BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, Emil DeBecque in SOUTH PACIFIC and recently, I received the Colorado Theatre Guild award for Best Actor in a Musical as Fredrik in A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC. That was a gift. I would love to play Harold Hill in THE MUSIC MAN, and every baritone wants to play SWEENEY TODD. Including me. I have been fortunate to be able to perform every style of musical theater being a member of the infamous FORBIDDEN BROADWAY for over 30 years.
Stages: What is your role in The Great Gatsby, and does it stay true to the novel?
Staudenmayer: I play the role of Meyer Wolfsheim. I’ve always loved playing bad guys. They’re many times the most interesting characters. Meyer Wolfsheim is very mysterious, and he gives a few clues into how morally bankrupt he possibly could be. Wolfsheim also has a bit of swagger that is delicious, that I think today’s audiences enjoy. The production captures the glamour, ambition, romance, and heartbreak that make F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel such an enduring classic. While the musical adaptation brings the story to life through music, movement, and theatrical storytelling, it remains faithful to the spirit and major themes of the novel. Audiences familiar with the book will recognize the characters and story they love, while newcomers can experience it in a fresh and exciting way.
Stages: How long is your tour, and do you like touring?
Staudenmayer: I am with the tour for a year. But, they add cities all the time. So, there is no end in sight for the tour. It’s a big success and audiences love it. It’s exciting to bring this uniquely American story across the country. I love touring. I’ve made many great friends over the years. I like to feel like I really get a chance to live in a city, even though it might be brief. I was lucky to bring this production of THE GREAT GATSBY to Seoul, Korea last summer/fall. It was a life changing experience.
Stages: Anything else you would like to add?
Staudenmayer: I’m grateful to be part of a production that introduces new audiences to this iconic story. Whether someone has loved The Great Gatsby for years or is experiencing it for the first time, I hope they leave the theatre entertained, moved, and inspired by the timeless themes that continue to resonate more than a century after the novel was published. Visit www.BroadwayInBoston.com for tickets and information.
Nancye Tuttle’s email address is [email protected].
Original article
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