BTdark – Bygone Theatre

Andrew Lorimer plays photographer & ex-marine Sam Hendricks in Wait Until Dark

1. Tell us a bit about yourself, what do you do when you’re not rehearsing for Wait Until Dark?

-WUD is my first real experience being on stage in this city. About three years ago I decided to leave home (Sault Ste. Marie) and begin seriously training for this career. I could go on and on about the events that led to this decision or why I eventually went to theatre school (wait, why did I do that?) but I’ll spare you that topic for now.

When I’m not rehearsing for the show, I watch a lot of baseball. No, I’m not a Blue Jays fan….and we’ll just leave it at that. I also watch Netflix, listen to podcasts, fantasize about owning a dog, read, and cook (I am half Italian you know, so it’s in the blood).

2. How did you hear about the show? What made you want to get involved?

-I heard about this show through social media and knew I had to get involved once I read the script. To me, this script has the feeling of a Hitchcock film. When you combine that with the 1960s New York setting, it’s too good to pass up.

I am also a huge Bruce Springsteen fan (I’ve been to almost 15 of his concerts) and the text mentions the city of Asbury Park, NJ several times. This city is essentially a place of worship for his fans (his very first album is “Greetings From Asbury Park”). The playwright could have picked any city in Jersey and chose Asbury Park. It was a sign for me to audition.

3. What has been your favourite moment in rehearsal so far?

-A few weeks ago we held a “Retro Radio Hour” fundraiser. The actors in the show (including myself) had a chance to read radio plays from the 50’s in front of an audience. What can be greater than that?! Oh, right. Add in the fact that these actors were doing this at a bar.

4. How do you prepare for playing a role like Sam? Have you done a similar role in the past?

-I’ve always felt a connection to the city of New York, especially during the 1960s. A large amount of the art I absorb has some connection to that city and time. In theatre school, we performed a children’s show set in both. It’s one of the most wonderful memories I have from that point in my life. I remember listening to ALOT of Hendrix, Motown, etc during that time to capture the “spirit of the 60s”.

5. Why should everyone come see the show?

-Like I said earlier, if you like the tension of Hitchcock’s films you’ll love this production.

6. Anything else you want to add?

– Next up for me is “Love’s Labour’s Lost” (Bard in the Park) followed by “Hairspray” (YES Theatre).

I wouldn’t be here today without the support, mentorship and love from the following people that I would like to thank (since this is my first show in Toronto): Theatre SMC, Jack W, Anna M, Mom/Dad, the 6CP and, most of all, Kelsey.