Unlike Any Other Mother, by Walayn Sharples

3:11 PM Actors' Perspective 0 Comments

From the moment I first read the script, I knew I had to be a part of it. I love learning and experiencing other cultures and treasure the opportunity to be part of a production that helps us reflect on our biases, rethink our prejudices and put ourselves in other’s shoes for awhile. This play offers the audience and actors that opportunity AND it’s funny. I was fascinated by the playwright’s comment that she hoped that at some point in the play everyone would be hearing a language they didn’t understand with no translations offered. This play presents universal situations that remind us that we all desire the same basic things and are presented with the same kinds of relationship struggles whether we’re in Bangladesh or America.

The other appealing thing is the role of Blanch. At my age, I am often cast in mother roles, but Blanch is unlike any mother I’ve ever played and has allowed me to look at the challenge of a single mom forced to make ends meet however she can. She may be a little “unorthodox” but she loves her daughter and wants her to be happy. She’s a lot of fun and allows me to enjoy playing a different kind of a mother!

I am so excited to be part of this collaborative production between ReAct, Pratidhwani and the Central Heating Lab at ACT Theatre. It is wonderful to work with actors that I would be unlikely to have the opportunity to work with under “normal” circumstances and performing at ACT affords both companies a more expansive audience base. I have great admiration for what ACT has brought to the Seattle theater scene. ACT’s Central Heating Lab supports smaller companies, new projects, and artists across the performing arts spectrum by affording them the opportunity to perform their work in a mainstage theater. This serves both audience and performers by introducing ACT audiences to performers, projects, and companies they might not otherwise be aware of, while expanding the audience base for the performers. It’s a win, win situation!

This play is a wonderful vehicle for this kind of collaboration as it crosses cultures, ages, and classes reminding us that as humans we are far more alike than different in our desire to be seen, accepted, and loved. So, just come have fun, experience something a little different, and as Blanch would say, “it’s time to let your hair down and have some laughs”!