Spotlight On: Aiden Kowalik

 

 

Connecticut Theatre Company’s “Spotlight On…” series continues with a look into the cast of Carrie. Get to know Aiden Kowalik who is portraying Tommy Ross in our production!

 

 

 

Introduce yourself to our audience.

Hi!! My name is Aiden Kowalik and I am honored to be playing Tommy Ross in CTC’s production of Carrie!

 

How do you balance the heightened, supernatural elements of the show with the grounded, painful reality of high school bullying?

The supernatural elements in Carrie are used to show the evolving pain that high school bullying causes. “The Destruction” serves as Carrie’s breaking point and as she finally releases her frustration through her powers. As I tell this story I see the supernatural elements as a metaphor used to expose the dangers and harm of high school bullying.

 

What is your favorite musical motif or lyric in Michael Gore and Dean Pitchford’s score that helps define your character?

 

How does this production make Carrie feel relevant to modern audiences?

As someone who just graduated, I see myself, as well as many of the people from my class in these characters. This production portrays the social dynamics as well as humanity and fear of not fitting in that many current high schoolers experience. I also think these characters feel really human and will resonate with audiences.

 

What has been the most physically or emotionally demanding part of the rehearsal process for you?

The most physically demanding part of this process for me has been the soundtrack. This score is PACKED with high notes and different genres so switching between styles and working my full range has definitely been demanding but has also helped me improve my musicality.

 

What surprised you most about the script and score compared to the original Stephen King novel or the films?

I was very surprised by how much more involved and individualized every character felt in this version of the show. The movie is very focused on the characters of Carrie and Margaret, Tommy and Sue, and Chris and Billy. But this version of Carrie gives every character a clear identity as well as a clear role in the story. I found this very interesting and thoughtful.

 

How does the ensemble use choreography and movement to amplify the tension and horror onstage?

The best example of this definitely comes in “The Destruction” where Carrie is finally pushed too far. The choreo is extremely panicked and sharp which really helps portray the horror the characters are feeling as well as the anger Carrie is filled with. By using choreo and movement we are shown how the characters are feeling in this moment as well as what these characters’ actions have created and caused.

 

If your character could give one piece of advice to their younger self, what would it be?

Throughout this show, Tommy is extremely honest to the people around him as well as himself. This is shown when his class reacts negatively to “Dreamer In Disguise”. After this, he tells Sue about how he wants to try and be a writer. Considering this, I believe Tommy would tell his younger self to always be honest to himself and pursue whatever he wants no matter how others react.

 

What do you hope audiences are discussing in the car on their ride home from the theater?