Spotlight On: Hesaneh

 

Connecticut Theatre Company’s “Spotlight On…” series continues with a look into the cast of The Prom. Get to know Hesaneh who is in the Ensemble of our production!

 

 

 

Introduce yourself to our audience.

Hi, I’m Hesaneh! This is my first production with Connecticut Theatre Company.

 

What drew you to your specific role, and what has been the most rewarding part of playing them?

I was really drawn to being part of “Unruly Hearts” and the message it carries. It’s been really special to contribute to such a meaningful and emotional part of the story.

 

What was your biggest “pinch-me” moment during the rehearsal or opening process?

One of my biggest “pinch-me” moments was during our first full run, when everything started to come together. It really hit me how special the show is.

 

What is your favorite song to perform in the show, and why?

I really love “Unruly Hearts”. The message of self-acceptance and embracing who you are is incredibly powerful, and it deeply resonates with me.

 

Do you approach your character by finding similarities to yourself, or by focusing on how they are different from you?

I tend to start by finding similarities, since I’m a very empathetic person. It helps me connect to the character authentically, and then I build from there.

 

Do you have any pre-show rituals to calm your nerves before going on stage?

I usually take a moment to remind myself what my character is feeling before going on stage.

 

If you could give advice to someone wanting to perform in musical theater, what would it be?

Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there, and be open to learning. Every experience helps you grow.

 

What was your experience at your own high school prom?

Where I grew up, prom wasn’t really a thing, so I didn’t have that experience. It’s been interesting to explore that idea through “The Prom”.

 

What does it mean to you to perform a show that celebrates building bridges and finding the courage to be your authentic self?

It means a lot to be part of a show that celebrates being your authentic self. The message of acceptance feels especially important right now, and it’s meaningful to help tell a story that encourages empathy in a time when it’s really needed.

 

 

“The Prom” opens on May 22nd and runs through May 31st at Connecticut Theatre Company.  Tickets on sale now!

 

“It’s a 21st century “Bye Bye Birdie,” with showbiz interlopers causing havoc before finding their better selves — but re-imagined with a millennial slant and an echo of “Dear Evan Hansen” empowerment.” — FRANK RIZZO of Variety

 

“The Prom is hilarious, entertaining, and most importantly, moving. It highlights the ongoing cruelty in communities across the country. It highlights the ongoing barriers that minorities, specifically youth minorities, face daily.”  —  JESSICA NEU of onStage Pittsburgh

 

“What makes The Prom “more than entertainment” is the way its social messages are seamlessly threaded throughout a compelling storyline. The drama clearly offers a lesson in how a series of individuals and a whole town (surrogate for a nation or the world?) can be transformed from homophobia to an acceptance of life-affirming inclusivity.” —  JOAN LANCOURT of the arts fuse