Myth Project Blog – Amanda Pawlik

Meet the Playwright: J. Mason Beiter

Published on September 26, 2023September 26, 2023 by amandapawlikLeave a comment

We are so excited to have J. Mason Beiter joining the Mythology Project 2023 as playwright! Mason was last seen acting in Mythology Project III!

J. Mason Beiter joins the Mythology Project 2023 as playwright this year!
Photo credit: Mason Media Photography.

How did you get started in theatre/playwriting? Did screenplay in early college. I took a script writing class at ECSU with Dr. Edmond Chibeau. He was a lovely man and very witty with his charm. He encouraged me to put things I’d never seen before onto the page which kicked off my passion for writing. Had a soap opera between clown in A Funny Affair (Windham Theater Guild) and now a raunchy heartfelt comedy featuring a cat and a dog in Pet Peeves coming in February (Hole in the Wall Theater). Chibeau was inspiring and his words have always stayed with me over the years. May the great rest in peace.

Favorite theatre memory (if you care to share!): She Kills Monsters as Orcus. Was a fun, outrageous, fight heavy role. Was a blast to know the cast and just be weird around them. It was the first show I did post Covid so I came back into theatre with a bang!

Number of years acting/in theatre: Acting 10 years, writing 4 years.

Number of Mythology Projects you’ve participated in: This is number 2 for me! Acting in the last and wrote this one (maybe you’ll see me in this one too)

(For returnees) How is this project different from past projects? Writing a show is a much different process. Thankfully I knew the actors ahead of time so I knew their strengths and what character types they can play very well. I can also pitch jokes/scenes and workshop them from there if I get into a writer’s block. It’s a nice feeling that my role is finished and all I need to do is enjoy the show! I can’t wait to see what the actors have done!

Favorite myth or fairytale (of all time) and why is it your favorite? Love the story of Orpheus and Eurydice. I’m a sucker for Hadestown. Anything Greek mythology related I love. Myth Project 5 maybe???

Favorite mythological creature/character of all time and why is it your favorite? Dionysus, he’s the god of theatre and wine, what’s not to love?

Favorite myth/story in Mythology Project 2023 and why: Loved The Cattle Raid of Cooley. It’s a longer piece but it was a blast to write so many characters with different personalities. The spear that was custom made for the show is remarkable and it feels like it’s an amalgamation of so many talents from fight choreography, singing/music, slapstick comedy, and more.

What’s your superpower? Dyslexia

Why should audiences come to see the show? Support local theatre and local playwrights. Also Celtic myths tend to be put aside when compared to other mythologies. Definitely can learn something new.

One song/sound/image that captures the essence of Mythology Project 2023 for you: In the spirit of theatre and wine, The Cult of Dionysus by The Orion Experience. Cheers!

Thank you, Mason!

The Mythology Project 2023 will premiere at the Windsor Art Center September 28, 29, and 30th at 7 pm. There will be a free talkback discussion following the September 29 performance. Suggested donation is $15.00. For more information and to reserve tickets, please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-mythology-project-tickets-698478507017

The Mythology Project 2023 is hosted at the Windsor Art Center, directed by Amanda Pawlik, and made possible through the support of the NewAlliance Foundation and the Ensworth Charitable Foundation, Bank of America, N.A., Trustee.

Meet the Actors: Alexis Thomasi

Published on September 25, 2023September 28, 2023 by amandapawlikLeave a comment

We are delighted to have Alexis Thomasi join us for the Mythology Project 2023! This is Alexis’s debut performance with the Mythology Project.

Alexis Thomasi will make her debut performance in Mythology Project 2023.
Photo credit: Mason Media Photography.

How did you get started in theatre/acting?

I dabbled prior to this but I really got started in theatre in 7th grade when I got cast in Into the Woods as Jack’s mom. I have been hooked ever since!

Favorite theatre/acting memory (if you care to share!):

Hard to pick just one but one of my favorite theatre memory right now is playing Janet in Rocky Horror last year. But honestly, too many to choose from!

Number of years acting/in theatre:

On and off, mostly on, for 18 years!

Number of Mythology Projects you’ve participated in:

This is my first! I hope to be involved in more in the future!

Favorite fairytale (of all time) and why is it your favorite?

A classic, The Tortoise and the Hare. A tale of perseverance and victories!

Favorite myth (of all time) of all time?

Oooo this is a tough one! I used to be fairly obsessed with Greek Mythology soooo maybe any of the stories involving Persephone or Athena… I am indecisive though!

Favorite mythological creature/character of all time and why is it your favorite?

Unequivocally, it’s Medusa. I have always had a bit of an obsession with her. I find it interesting how she is seen as a villain and portrayed as such a scary threatening figure but that is such a small part of her entire story! I could go on and on about her!

What’s your superpower?

My heart, my passion, my resilience, and versatility.

Why should audiences come to see the show?

This is one of THE COOLEST projects I have ever been a part of. It is so original, funny, and clever. The silliness mixed with the genuine stories is the perfect mixture! It is a great opportunity to laugh and learn!

One song/sound/image that captures the essence of Mythology Project 2023 for you:

Jackson Pollock’s A Master of Chaos and Order.

Anything else you want to share?

I love theatre, there is so much magic in it. I am so happy to be involved in this Mythology Project 2023 and to be making this unique, silly, informative show with all of these talented people. Thank you to everyone who helped me get involved in this and for the beautiful welcoming energy ya’ll possess!

Thank you, Alexis!

Meet the Actors: Michael C. Daly

Published on September 25, 2023September 25, 2023 by amandapawlikLeave a comment

We are thrilled to have Michael C. Daly involved in the Mythology Project 2023 lending his talents as both an actor and musician.

Actor Michael Daly has performed in all four Mythology Projects.
Photo credit: Mason Media Photography

How did you get started in theatre/acting? I started acting when I was 10 years old. My mom enrolled me in the Windsor Summer Theater program in town.

Favorite theatre/acting memory (if you care to share!): One of many!!!

I wore a layered, tear away costume for a show in college. Every night, myself and the other ensemble members had a quick change (5ish seconds) where we each ran off, had our top layer costume ripped off by stage hands and turned around to enter in unison. The first time we did it in front of an audience, they clapped when we re-entered in that short window of time. It was an amazing feeling.

Number of years acting/in theatre: Including my childhood? 35 years and counting!

Number of Mythology Projects you’ve participated in: All of them!

(For returnees) How is this project different from past projects? This project, as a concept, desires creative change. This time around, there was a lot of immersive interaction with the playwrights and dramaturg that felt different from previous iterations but still followed the process of devising and creative collaboration.

Favorite myth or fairytale (of all time) and why is it your favorite? The Princess Bride by William Goldman. I know maybe that’s cheating but it is a truly wonderful modern fairy tale. Fencing, fighting, true love!

Favorite mythological creature/character of all time and why is it your favorite? Dragons. Many cultures have dragons! The Tolkien dragon, from the European mythos, is definitely my favorite.

Favorite myth/story in Mythology Project 2023 and why: It’s not fair to make us only pick one! But, if I must, I enjoy the Cattle Raid of Cooley. It’s such a wide ranging story touching on everything from royal greed to the love of two best friends and how their taxes tore them apart!

What’s your superpower? Making corporate meetings enjoyable.

Why should audiences come to see the show? This show, like Mythology Projects of the past, was developed with a passion for storytelling. From the beginning the goal is simply to entertain, educate and pay homage to the mythologies that make up the world. The way we do it is not something you’ve seen before (unless you’ve seen previous projects) and is as much fun to participate in as (I hope) it is to watch.

One song/sound/image that captures the essence of Mythology Project 2023 for you: Looking at the aged wooden sign outside of Blarney’s pub and hearing, faintly, the sound of a reel being played and laughter coming from inside.

Thank you, Michael!

Meet the Actors: Nicole Morin

Published on September 23, 2023September 23, 2023 by amandapawlikLeave a comment

We are excited to welcome Nicole Morin back to the Mythology Project! She was last seen playing several roles in Mythology Project III!

Nicole Morin returns to the Mythology Project playing several roles,
including Grace O’Malley, the “Pirate Queen of Ireland.”
Photo credit: Mason Media Photography.

How did you get started in theatre/acting? JFK Jr High School Drama Club

Favorite theatre/acting memory (if you care to share!): Meeting a Lieutenant from the British Royal Navy while playing a Lieutenant in the British Royal Navy.

Number of years acting/in theatre: I’m way too old to answer this question.

Number of Mythology Projects you’ve participated in: 3

(For returnees) How is this project different from past projects? More music, more excitement and great ideas.

Favorite myth or fairytale (of all time) and why is it your favorite? My favorite myth is a local one, the Black Dog of the Hanging Hills, because it is scary but also completely plausible.

Favorite mythological creature/character of all time and why is it your favorite? The Phoenix, it is mysterious, beautiful, and eternal.

Favorite myth/story in Mythology Project 2023 and why: Grace O’Malley, she’s bad-ass.

What’s your superpower? I’m a cat whisperer.

Why should audiences come to see the show? I’m in it. Also, it’s really funny and has lots of heart.

Thank you, Nicole!

Meet the Actors: Aneudy Corchado

Published on September 22, 2023September 22, 2023 by amandapawlikLeave a comment

Next up in our Meet the Actors series is Aneudy Corchado! Aneudy will make his Mythology Project debut in Mythology Project 2023!

Aneudy Corchado will make his Mythology Project debut in
Mythology Project 2023. Photo credit: Mason Media Photography.

How did you get started in theatre/acting?

As a young kid I watched a lot of Jim Carrey movies and I wanted to be as silly as he was while making people laugh. I would copy some of his antics and act like a goof whenever a camera was present. I tried getting into my high school’s choir but I did not have a good singing voice. I even tried auditioning to go to school at the Academy of the Arts in Hartford but I never got accepted. I tried out Ballroom Dancing at my high school and got involved in the musicals my high school would perform, and from there I promised myself to continue working on myself until I landed speaking roles and show my peers that I do have some talent.

Favorite theatre/acting memory (if you care to share!):

I have a few. I once flew out and somersaulted out the mouth of Audrey II to take my bow when the show had finished. Being able to do a favorite musical of my parents twice in my life with different roles for each show of Grease. I enjoy hearing the audience laugh with my shenanigans on stage. I love doing shows with some of my closest friends, although there has yet to be any interaction for any of our roles, I still enjoy being onstage with them. Most of all, my favorite acting memory was being able to fulfill a number of dream roles that I set my heart out for, thus fulfilling the childhood dream of having the spotlight and entertaining the audience.

Number of years acting/in theatre:

I have been acting since 2007, 16 consecutive years , partaking in school musicals and short plays conducted by the high school’s Drama Club.

Number of Mythology Projects you’ve participated in:

This will actually be my first Mythology Project.

(For returnees) How is this project different from past projects?

I am not a returnee, but this will be the first time I will be in a show where I played multiple characters at once and figuring out the different hats to use for each of my roles.

Favorite myth or fairytale (of all time) and why is it your favorite?

Growing up, Greek mythology was something I encountered a lot along the way. I was into the history of Greece and the stories they told about the lost city of Atlantis or how Gods obtained their immortality through the Garden of the Hesperides, or the story of Heracles which was also celebrated by Romans who called him Hercules instead. Greek mythology has always fascinated me.

Favorite mythological creature/character of all time and why is it your favorite?

The Basilisk is a favorite mythological creature of mine. I first heard of the name in the Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets book. A giant reptilian that is able to swallow a man whole was hard to believe and interesting to imagine until I saw the Anaconda movies. I imagine it would be scary to encounter one of those in real life, as well as the Minotaur.

Favorite myth/story in Mythology Project 2023 and why:

The Giant’s Causeway due to it being the shortest in the play as well as the silliest. Seeing Ben behave like a baby is hilarious.

What’s your superpower?

Being an empath; I am a good listener, although I don’t always give out the best advice, I can take solace in knowing I gave someone my attention while they vent to me their struggles and problems as well as offer them guidance.

Why should audiences come to see the show?

To learn the American interpretation of what we think Celtic Mythology is told. The show is hilarious and charming from beginning to end with a group of creative performers. There’s comedy, drama, action, singing, lots and lots of singing and it’s not even a musical, but it is a fun show for all ages. So come witness our goofy butts make you laugh.

One song/sound/image that captures the essence of Mythology Project 2023 for you:

BATTLE RAGE!!!!

Thank you, Aneudy!

Meet the Actors: Lisa Ives

Published on September 21, 2023September 21, 2023 by amandapawlikLeave a comment

We are excited to have Lisa Ives return for another Mythology Project! She was last seen playing the Baba Yaga (and many other roles!) in Mythology Project III.

Lisa Ives returns to the Mythology Project 2023!
Photo credit: Mason Media Photography

How did you get started in theatre/acting?

It was a bucket list thing.

Favorite theatre/acting memory (if you care to share!):

Playing multiple characters in Myth Project #3, especially Baba Yaga.

Number of years acting/in theatre: 8

Number of Mythology Projects you’ve participated in: 3

(For returnees) How is this project different from past projects?

More singing!

Favorite myth or fairytale (of all time):

Hansel and Gretel

Favorite mythological creature/character of all time:

The phoenix rising from the ashes.

Favorite myth/story in Mythology Project 2023 and why:

Giant’s Causeway myth with Finn Mac Cumhaill.

What’s your superpower?

My willingness to be ridiculous.

Why should audiences come to see the show?

To learn some interesting things about Celtic myths and have some laughs, and a song or two…

Thank you, Lisa!

Meet the Creative Team: Xan Lee Ellis

Published on September 20, 2023September 20, 2023 by amandapawlikLeave a comment

Next up in our interview series for Mythology Project 2023 is creative team member Xan Lee Ellis. Xan has shared their creative talents in the creation of both costumes and props for the show as well as helping with backstage management.

Xan Lee Ellis in a self-made costume lends their creative talents to the
Mythology Project 2023. Photo credit: @aobatsumugi

How did you get started in theatre? I grew up in the ensemble of casts, both in ballet as a child, and a few years in Windsor Youth Theatre in my teen years. After taking some time away from the performing arts, I finally came back to find a place that I finally truly at home in, working in fabrication and backstage management, though I’m certainly not opposed to getting back in the limelight in the future as well!

Number of years in theatre: About 6 years, in any sense that I have found meaningful, at least.

Number of Mythology Projects you’ve participated in: This is my first one, but hopefully not my last!

Favorite myth or fairytale (of all time) and why is it your favorite? I find a lot of kinship in the tale of Pandora. It’s an interesting aspect of the human condition, the idea that we crave knowledge even to our own detriment. I’d personally prefer the knowledge and the suffering that comes with it, over the suffering of that itch of curiosity!

Favorite mythological creature/character of all time and why is it your favorite? The phoenix, as it shows that even if we fall, that does not have to be the end.

Favorite myth/story in Mythology Project 2023 and why: Hands-down, my answer is the tale of Oisin in Tir na Nóg. I feel it brings up a lot of questions of what really matters in life, and the subtle unease of a “perfect” existence.

What’s your superpower? The ability to procrastinate before tearing through what I need to do at the last minute, and somehow still usually surpassing my own expectations of myself. It will forever be a mystery to me how I do it, though.

Why should audiences come to see the show? I have honestly been in awe of our actors and everybody else involved, as I’ve gotten to watch words on paper come to life and see everybody add their own flourish to things. It’s been a very collaborative experience that is unique to me, and I’m sure will be unique to our audience as well.

One song/sound/image that captures the essence of Mythology Project 2023 for you:

Anything else you want to share? I’m particularly excited that the theme of my first Mythology Project is Celtic mythology! I hope to do well by my grandmother, who was an Irish immigrant and now rests not even a mile from the Windsor Art Center.

Thank you, Xan!

Meet the Actors: Benjamin Joseph Alas

Published on September 19, 2023September 19, 2023 by amandapawlikLeave a comment

In the days leading up to opening night, we’ll be taking some time to introduce you to the Mythology Project 2023 actors and creative team! First up is Benjamin Joseph Alas. Benjamin is making his debut appearance in both the Mythology Project and onstage!

Benjamin Joseph Alas makes his debut in Mythology Project 2023. Photo credit: Mason Media Photography

How did you get started in theatre/acting?

I started acting after I decided to end my academic education. I was really unhappy in school and wanted a change. For a long time acting had been bubbling up in the back of my head but I didn’t feel like it was something I could really pursue. Eventually I made the jump and started taking acting classes and have not looked back since.

Favorite theatre/acting memory (if you care to share!):

My favorite theater memory is from my first Broadway experience seeing Kinky Boots. When the main character performs in a home for senior citizens and on their way out they say goodbye to their dad. That scene has always stuck with me.

Number of years acting/in theatre: Two years

Number of Mythology Projects you’ve participated in: This will be my first.

Favorite myth or fairytale (of all time) and why is it your favorite?

I do not know if this is my favorite myth but the first one I thought about was the myth of Sisyphus. I do not think I liked it so much for the actual content but more the philosophies that people tie to the story. It’s been a long time since I’ve studied this tale but essentially people equate the boulder Sisyphus pushes to life and the fact he has to push this boulder forever is absurd. Thus we as people have to push through the absurdity of life and find our own meaning. Basically, you get what you give. I enjoy looking at different philosophies and how people think.

Favorite mythological creature/character of all time and why is it your favorite?

I really like mermaids. Being able to swim all throughout the ocean at any depth. Having that freedom and all that space to explore sounds so exciting.

Favorite myth/story in Mythology Project 2023 and why:

My favorite myth from the Mythology Project 2023 is actually our first one The Cattle Raid of Cooley. I think it’s funny, exciting, and dramatic. Also as an actor I enjoy playing multiple parts in the story. It’s fun to juggle all these characters. I’m also really excited to have my first stage combat scene as Ferdia fighting Cuchulainn.

What’s your superpower?

I think being creative is my superpower. That may sound egotistical but I love to create things in every artistic medium. I enjoy being a part of really cool projects. I hope to just make something that wasn’t there before.

Why should audiences come to see the show?

I think they should come to see the show because it’s a good time. In this play there’s jokes, there’s drama, there’s dancing, there’s action, and singing, it’s a really fun time.

One song/sound/image that captures the essence of Mythology Project 2023 for you:

I think the opening scene in the pub captures the Mythology Project because it’s just some people having fun. Of course we are here to do a job but we are also here because we enjoy it.

Anything else you want to share?

Just that I’m happy to be here.

Thank you, Ben!

The Mythology Project 2023 will premiere at the Windsor Art Center September 28, 29, and 30th at 7 pm. There will be a free talkback discussion following the September 29 performance. Suggested donation is $15.00 For more information and to reserve tickets, please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-mythology-project-tickets-698478507017

Behind the Scenes: What is Devising?

Published on September 19, 2023October 19, 2023 by amandapawlikLeave a comment

Lisa Ives and Aneudy Corchado in Mythology Project 2023. Photo credit: Mason Media Photography.

Hello! And welcome to the Mythology Project’s blog! Leading up to the performances of the Mythology Project 2023: Heroes and Legends of Ireland, we will be sharing information about the cast, creative team, and also our creative process. We hope that by sharing this information that we build excitement for the show and also answer some common questions.

For those who are new to the Mythology Project, here is a short definition of what we do:

The Mythology Project is a collaboration with actors, writers, and artists that explores the mythology of different cultures, resulting in an original short play inspired by these stories or the themes within them. This year’s project focuses on Celtic mythology, specifically heroes and legends from Ireland!

If you’re curious to learn more about the history of the Mythology Project, you can check that out here.

Now jumping into today’s topic:

What is Devising?

The Mythology Project is created through a process called devising. Traditionally, rehearsals will start with a script that has already been written by a playwright. With devising, there is no script to begin with. The company comes together and collaboratively creates the performance. This can result in a written script; it could also result in a more movement-based performance, a combination of the two, or something completely different! Usually there is a topic, theme, or question that the company uses as a starting point. In our case, we begin with stories from mythology.

During the last Mythology Project, I asked some of our veteran actors to answer the question, “Devising is _____.” Here’s what they said:

“Devising is theater in its purest form- creative energy flowing between actors and directors until it takes form.” -J. Landolina (Actor, Mythology Projects II & III)

“Like being a kid, dreaming up anything and everything!” -Lisa Ives (Actor, Mythology Projects I, III, IV)

“Devising is improvisation inside of a structured idea. To devise, you’re looking for the essence of the story or the point you’re making and wrapping words and actions around getting to that point. Improvisation begins this process, but doesn’t require that there be structure at the end. Devising is the track that keeps improvisation headed toward the common goal of the story structure and doesn’t just result in a punchline.” –Michael Daly (Actor, Mythology Projects I-IV)

“So fun and such a great opportunity for improv!” –Nicole Morin (Actor, Mythology Projects II-IV)

“Divide and create. Bringing together many small ideas to form one big one.” J. Mason Beiter (Actor, Mythology Project III, Playwright, Mythology Project IV)

As you can imagine with such a collaborative process, each installment of the Mythology Project followed a slightly different format for rehearsals. This year, in addition to having a talented cast of actors, we were lucky enough to work with CT playwright J. Mason Beiter and to have Mythology Project alum Catherine Haverkampf as dramaturg (helping with everything from research to creating a pronunciation guide). We spent the first month of rehearsals reading through Celtic myths and Irish legends, narrowing down our stories, and then brainstorming in a “writers’ room” fashion how we could best stage these tales, occasionally inviting the actors to improvise some potential scenes. Mason, Catherine, and I then worked to take all the ideas generated to craft a first draft of a script (with Mason taking lead on writing and Cat helping to fill in any gaps in research). Once we had a draft of the script, the actors and I along with a talented team of artists/designers came together to continue workshopping the play, adding in prop, set, costume and staging details to help bring the story to life.

This year we are celebrating having our largest creative team yet – including six actors, one playwright, one dramaturg, and two artist/designers. Stay tuned to this blog in the coming weeks to learn more about the team that made this year’s project possible!

Meet the Actors: Jillian Landolina

Published on August 16, 2018August 16, 2018 by amandapawlikLeave a comment

Last, but not least, in our “Meet the Actors” series is Jillian Landolina! Jillian played Hnossa in Mythology Project II (Norse myths) and plays several roles in Myth Project 3!

Jillian Landolina, on bench, rehearses with the cast of Myth Project 3.

Name: Jillian Landolina

How did you get started in theatre? An ensemble role in a town production of High School Musical at age eight.

Favorite theatre memory (if you care to share!): Directing my first show, Proof by David Auburn, in my junior year of high school.

Number of years acting: Ten.

Number of Mythology Projects you’ve participated in: Including this one, two!

How is this project different from past projects? I feel that we as a cast have taken more risks and have an even more fully-explored show because of it! I think also the acknowledgement of us being a troupe of actors assuming roles adds to the show.

Favorite myth or fairytale (of all time) and why is it your favorite? Any story about humans becoming trapped in a fairy ring or in the faywild. It serves as a reminder that even things that seem innocent, innocuous, or even cute and charming can have a darker edge to them, and on the flip side, empowers innocence and charm.

Favorite mythological creature/character of all time and why is it your favorite? The goddess Artemis! No matter who is telling the story, she is universally recognized as free, powerful, and capable. I find her greatly inspiring.

Favorite myth in Myth Project 3 and why: The story of Inek and the North Wind– I appreciate the message that spunk and resourcefulness will lead to triumph!

What’s your super power? Recalling useless and obscure facts. Possums rarely get rabies because their body temperature is too low for the disease to incubate.

Why should audiences come to see the show? For the perfect blend of comedy and information, and for a surprise at the end!

One image that really captures the essence of Myth Project 3 for you:

One song/sound that captures the essence of Myth Project 3 for you: Hungry Like the Wolf– Duran Duran

Devising is ________: Devising is theater in its purest form- creative energy flowing between actors and directors until it takes form.

Thank you, Jillian! The Mythology Project III will be performed August 16-18 (Thursday-Saturday), 2018 at 8PM at the Windsor Art Center, 40 Mechanic St. Windsor, CT!