In part two of a series of interviews with the cast of Kensington Arts Theatre’s Two Rooms, meet Sandra Cox True.
Please introduce yourself and tell our readers where they may have seen you perform on the stage before. What roles did you play in these shows?
I am Sandra Cox True. Some recent roles include Cassandra in Vanya, Sonia, Masha and Spike, Miss Leah in Flyin West, and Grace in Grace and Glory.
Why did you want to be part of the cast of Two Rooms? I have never heard of this play before. Had you known about it before? And what intrigued you about the play?
I had memories of a long New York Times review. I knew this play had a strong message and I wanted the opportunity to work on the complicated themes this play presents.
Who do you play in the show? How do you relate to her?
I play Ellen, a state department employee, who voices the government position on international hostage taking. Ellen is a departure for me in that she does not allow her personal feelings to affect the presentation of the official government policy.
What is Two Rooms about from the point of view of your character?
I think this play attempts to outline the plight of individuals caught in circumstances not of their own making. Ellen views these victims in terms of their role in the larger scheme of good and evil as she sees it.
What challenges have you had preparing for the role, and how did Director John Nunemaker help you through these challenges? What was the best advice he gave you on how to play your role?
John Nunemaker tends to very quietly lead you through the morass of choices available to the actor. He has been instrumental in providing contact with people who actually have had loved ones kidnapped in the Middle East.
What is your favorite line or lines that your character says, and what is your favorite line that someone else says in the show?
I think my favorite line that Ellen speaks is:
Because without hope, there can be no foreign policy.”
Michael’s line, “I am real” is also very poignant.
What does Two Rooms have to say to today’s audiences?
This play asks the viewers to value individuals wherever they are born and to reconsider the virtue and support the institutions of government and the media provide.
If you could change what happens to your character, what would you like to see happening to your character at the end of the play?
I can’t change Ellen or her destiny.
Why should local theatergoers come and see Two Rooms?
It is important to view this play in the light of the conundrums we currently face.
What’s next for you on the stage?
As always, I will continue to audition and hope some kind director says yes.
Two Rooms plays from February 17 to March 4, 2017, at Kensington Arts Theatre performing at the Kensington Town Hall Armory – 3716 Mitchell Street, in Kensington, MD. For tickets, call the box office at (240) 621-0528, or purchase them online.
LINKS:
Meet the Cast of ‘Two Rooms’ at Kensington Arts Theatre. Part 1: Sean Dynan.
