Spotlight On: Shawn Murray

 

Connecticut Theatre Company’s “Spotlight On…” series continues with a look into our talented cast of The Producers. Get to know Shawn Murray who is in the ensemble of our production!

 

 

Introduce yourself to our audience.

My name is Shawn Murray and I’m a forty year old member of the ensemble – which means at any given point during the show, you’ll recognize me as “the sweaty one.”

 

What is the story about, and why do you think it’s important for audiences to see it?

The story of “The Producers”, at it’s core, is a sardonic tale of capitalism giving way to the accidental glorification of fascism. I can’t put my finger on why it may or may not be relevant for theatergoers to see in today’s social climate.

 

What do you do when you’re not doing theatre?

When I’m not performing, you will find me being the proud stepdad to one teenage human and three teenage cats. Occasionally, also flailing impressively at any given local ska show.

 

What do you find most compelling or interesting about your character?

My favorite part of my role(s) in this show are the accents and character work I get to bounce between – being a blind musician, theatre critic and courtroom judge may sound unrelated at first pass, but open your mind to the parallels! 

 

How is this production bringing something new to this story?

 

Who in the show is most like their character?

Asking which cast member is most like their role is a bit of a loaded question in a show where most characters are generally less than good people. That said, I really admire Charles’ portrayal of Franz – it’s clear he’s an animal lover and sensitive yet passionate artisté. 

 

Without giving anything away, what’s your favorite line of dialogue?

My favorite line of dialogue has to be when Max famously goes “Oy”. Growing up Jewish, I really felt when he said that. 

 

What will the audience be thinking about in the car as they drive home after this show?

You never truly know what an audience takes away from a performance, but my sincere hope is that in a two-person car ride home, one of them tells the other “I’m picking the next show we see.”

 

 

 

“The Producers” opens on May 2nd and runs through May 11th at Connecticut Theatre Company.  Tickets on sale now!

 

“For all its daring, Brooks’s show is ultimately a nostalgic throwback to vaudeville and a testament to male friendship.”  —  The Guardian

 

“With more belly laughs per minute than any new musical in years, Mel Brooks’ “The Producers” reminds us in grand, politically incorrect style that Broadway never rewards wimps.” — Variety

 

“It’s the type of musical people say they pray for; a gleeful return to the good old days of undemanding musical comedy with laughs, pretty girls, laughs, a couple of catchy songs, laughs, soon to be legendary performances by some of the best talents of the Broadway stage, laughs, and . . . well . . . lots and lots of laughs.” —  Talkin’ Broadway