In Part 2 of a series of interviews with the cast of The Metropolitan Youth Theatre’s Rent, meet Jordan Sledd.
Introduce yourself and tell our readers where they may have seen you before on local stages.
Hi, I’m Jordan Sledd! People might have seen me in shows at the Children’s Theater of Annapolis, Columbia Center for Theatrical Arts, Owl Gate Theater, 2nd Star Productions, or Laurel Mill Playhouse.
Who do you play in RENT and how do you relate to your character? Does this character have any of your personality or traits?
I play Angel in MYT’s production of RENT! I think Angel and I are very similar at heart. We both live with exuberance for life and generally are happy, fun loving people. Angel and I share being the peacemaker in our daily lives and wanting everyone to truly be happy! Angel succeeds at this eternal optimism and positivity more than I do (hahahahahah) but at heart we both just are happy go-lucky people!
What has been the biggest challenge learning to play this role?
Three words: Six-inch heels.
Which character in RENT is most like you and how?
I think I’m a good mix between Maureen and Angel. Maureen and I both like being what’s the word….flashy. Yet, I’m like Angel when it comes to my relationships with other people. We both just want everyone to be happy and enjoy helping our friends with anything they might be facing. Angel and I both live life unafraid and authentically. Deep down, I’m very much like Maureen though, life is a stage for me.
What have you learned about yourself-the actor and singer-during this experience?
I’ve learned the importance of connecting to your character. As an actor, it is essential that you find a way to connect to your character in order to produce something that is real and authentic on that stage.
What does RENT have to say to theatregoers of your generation and how is it still relevant?
RENT is a timeless piece of art that I think is relevant in every generation. Rent’s central message of love, acceptance and hope even in the sight of adversity is timeless and can definitely still be applied to my generation. People still want to be loved and be accepted by the world around them. Even today, people struggle to find their place in the world and I think Rent shows that everyone has a path in life and everyone can find that family or group of people that will accept and love them for who they are.
What song that you do not sing is your favorite and why?
“Take Me or Leave Me.” What a fierce, sassy song! I always appreciate a good amount of sass in any musical number.
Have you appeared in other productions of RENT and if so-who did you play- and how is this production different and unique?
This is my first time being in RENT! WOOHOO!
What do you want audiences to take with them after seeing your performance in RENT?
I hope people leave the show thinking about going out and loving everyone and being a little more accepting to all people. After all, RENT is all about embracing everyone and living life authentically and with love and acceptance towards all! I also hope they enjoyed watching the show as much as I enjoy being in it:)
The Metropolitan Youth theatre presents a student directed, produced, and performed version of the Broadway musical RENT on July 31, 2015 at 7:30 pm, August 1st and 2:00 pm and 7:30 pm, and August 2nd at 2:00 pm – at 1st Stage – 1524 Spring Hill Road, in McLean, VA. Purchase your tickets at the door or online.
LINK:
Meet the Cast of The Metropolitan Youth Theatre’s ‘RENT’: Part 1: Marcia Cunning.
