CEDAR CITY — One of the first things that an actor must do after being cast in a play is to make decisions about the character. These early decisions often have a huge impact on the nature of the production, the message of the play, and the effect that the actors’ performance has on the audience. Watch the videos below to see how some of the actors in the 2011 Utah Shakespeare Festival approach their roles. Please also read the accompanying article where they talk about their Utah Shakespeare Festival experience.

Betsy Mugavero talks about playing Hermia in A Midsummer Night’s Dream:

[youtube:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yHFfhtAGx_Q]

Matt Mueller explains how he approaches the role of Mercutio in Romeo and Juliet:

[youtube:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MCDd469z5MQ]

Ben Jacoby gives his views on the role of Tom Wingfield, which he plays in The Glass Menagerie:

[youtube:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IiWJm8dbh2s]

UTBA appreciates the time that Mugavero, Mueller, and Jacoby gave to us and we wish them well in this season. Please also visit our reviews of the Festival’s other current productions: Richard III, The Music Man, and Noises Off! You can also watch our video interview with the Utah Shakespeare Festival’s executive director.

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For more information about the Utah Shakespeare Festival, visit www.bard.org.

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