Straight Shootin’ with the cast of The Bad and the Better: Regina Blandón
The streets are filled with shady politicians and rebel-rousing anarchists in Derek Ahonen’s new play, The Bad and the Better, which begins performances at the Peter Jay Sharp Theater on June 14. In anticipation of the new detective noir, Stage Rush asked some of the fearless cast members about rolling with The Amoralists, admiring rebels, and shooting firearms. Here’s what they had to say!
Actor: Regina Blandón
Has the nature of the Amoralists’ work allowed you to take more risks on stage? Moreso than your experiences with other theater companies?
Yes! From the beginning of the process, we’ve been given the liberty to create our character and do whatever our gut and instinct tell us to do; it feels awesome! We’re given the opportunity to experiment as much as we want, to go as far as we can go. It’s very refreshing and exciting. Being around such talented actors and production team makes me want to reach that very high bar they’ve set. It’s as simple as go big or go home; there’s no other way.
How do the founding principles of The Amoralists connect with your own inclinations as an actor?
I feel very comfortable and connected. I’m a passionate person. I love the journey of creating a character—the suffering, feeling, going the hard way. I like unexpected things and being on edge. That’s what I see here; everyone in this company is so passionate and committed with what they do. I love that! I couldn’t be happier and more honored to form part of this awesome team. I’ve learned so much personally and as an actor.
What stories of famously corrupt politicians or infamous rebels have you admired or been intrigued by, and why?
Back in Mexico, it’s quite common to hear about these stories. Huge corruption cases in the government, nepotism, big salaries, deals with the cartels, thieving ex presidents that still have power, drug lords who can pay the whole external debt and still be billionaires. What intrigues me the most is how our society looks at this and says, “Only in Mexico.” We’re not impressed by it anymore; we expect it.
What’s the most shocking thing you’ve ever seen done on stage?
That’s a tough one. Most recently, I saw End of the Rainbow on Broadway. What Tracie Bennett does as Judy Garland on that stage is amazing! I couldn’t stop talking about her. Brilliant.
Which of the following best describes your relationship with firearms:
A) Bullseye!
B) On occasion, when I need to blow off some steam.
C) I bought a Groupon for an hour session at a shooting range once.
D) Never touched one before in my life. [“But after firing my revolver in rehearsal today, I think I’ve become quite a fan. I felt so powerful! I know I sound like a psycho killer.”]
E) I won’t even sleep in a house with a gun in it.
Enter here to win tickets to see The Bad and the Better! Follow Stage Rush on Facebook and Twitter, and sign up for the weekly newsletter!