1. before you signed up to direct for KML, did you have any idea of what you were getting into--and has anything surprised you along the way?

I had a pretty good idea of what I was getting into, as I've been fairly "linked-in" to the KML folks for many years now.  What has struck me, however, is how truly collaborative the group is.  Often, as a director, you check in with the producers or writer from time to time which is liberating at times, but can also be a bit daunting if you're new to the organization.  I have loved the fact that someone who was a writer in phase one of the project, will then shop for props or paint the set.  And I have also welcomed the writers and producer's input on the show itself.  I love having multiple eyes on the project. It is such an inspiring environment to work in. 

2. can you briefly summarize your 'cruising' experience?

If you mean cruising on a ship...I have none.  If you mean cruising cute boys on the street, let's just say I am a master at it. 

3. rumor has it that you have become hooked on the tvshow "LOST" in preparing this show that features various castaways and strangers getting close in uncomfortable quarters. Are you taking any liberties in referencing the tv show?

 I hadn't seen the show prior to rehearsals, so Paul Charney gave me a DVD of the first three episodes of LOST, and I was hooked!  The sketch that parodies the show has become one of my favorites of the lot as it not only pokes fun at LOST, but also at "meta-theater" and theater in general.  We've had a ball putting that sketch together.   However, other than the general "flashback" style of the sketch, there aren't that many references to the show itself. 

4. describe the music of the show if you can... we hear erik [jekabson--the musical director of the show] has been at work on some great stuff. what have you told him you wanted it to sound like/or what has he told you?

Erik is an incredible musician, with a great classical ear and jazzy sensibility.  The sound that we're going for is a sort of tropical bossa nova kind of sound.  We'll be having Eric on keyboard and his trumpet (of which he is truly a master) then a very hip percussionist and a groovy guy with an upright bass.  We've also been blessed with some really strong singers in the cast one of whom, Jennifer Justice will be performing an original song that I just heard yesterday, and it's amazing.  Jennifer is a very talented musician, she plays guitar, the accordion, and is a violin teacher/player in addition to being a very gifted singer.  We also will have the ever-yummy Sarah Mitchell singing a very special version of a very special cruise-related song.

5. what should audiences do to prepare for seeing this show?

 They should watch all the episodes of The Love Boat and read The DaVinci Code. 

6. now.... you are a Liberace scholar, yes? can you tell us a little bit about how you became one? and did you learn anything from Liberace that has prepared you for this experience with KML?

 I am, in fact a Liberace scholar.  Which means, that I won a scholarship  from the Liberace Foundation for the Performing Arts during my final year of college.  My university gave out two of the much-coveted scholarships each year.  I applied for one my junior year and didn't get it.  It was performing in a production of THE TEMPEST at the time, playing one of the clowns.  The director's concept was that the clowns would never speak, but rather act out their scenes through clowning, with very physically based humor. 

Well, one night in rehearsal the director said, "You are allowed to say one line each night during this particular dream sequence."  So, I decided that every night my line would have something to do with Liberace, as I was so upset about not winning the scholarship.  Needless to say, after having to listen all of my Liberace incantations, the faculty gave me the scholarship the following year.I've since incorporated several "candelabra" rituals when I direct a show, mostly around first rehearsal and opening night.I think Liberace's campy spirit will be seen all throughout KML Takes a Cruise...at least I hope it will be. 

7. do you have anything else to add?Nope...that's it.

To purchase tickets to KML Takes a Cruise (February 23 through March 4 at the Brava Theatre) please click here!