The Biz Interview: Evelyn Chew
A Good Way Out by Cara Norrish is the newest production at Pacific Theatre is a story of crime and compromise involving a mechanic and his role in a biker gang. The production features Carl Kennedy, Andrew Wheeler, Corina Akeson, Chad Ellis, and Evelyn Chew, with Anthony F. Ingram directing.
For Evelyn Chew, a graduate of acting programs at both Douglas College and Studio 58, A Good Way Out marks her first performance on the Pacific Theatre stage. We spoke to Evelyn Chew about her debut and her career.
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What is your involvement with A Good Way Out and what drew you to be a part of this production?
I’m an actor and I’ll be playing Carla in the play. It means a lot to me that Anthony (the director) asked me to audition. When I read the script I was moved by the characters and their family dynamic. Something about good people doing the wrong thing rings true to me. I thought Carla would be a lot of fun for me to play.
Can you share some of your creative process in preparing for the role – from the initial planning all the way to opening night?
Carla’s a stripper so I’ll definitely be going to a few strip clubs and getting a feel for the scenery and people. Maybe take a class or two just to get a feel of how she might use her body. When I’m there I’ll listen to what people are talking about and what they do; Observe. I’ll really want to understand why Carla does the things she does and feels it’s the best possible choice. I’ll feel it out a long the way. I do know I want her to feel relatable to the audience in that she’s human and capable of making mistakes. I’m curious as to what motivates her. Why do people do the things they do? I’ll keep trying things until it feels right.
What should audiences expect from this show?
You’ll see realistic characters who love each other, who are desperate to make things work and make things worse. I kinda like watching that stuff. It’s like watching a Greek Tragedy or Jerry Springer.
What are the three most important ingredients for a successful stage production?
Great artists, a great story and a lot of heart.
Are there any books or authors that have been influential to you so far in your creative journey?
I’ve mostly been moved by my own family and friends. They’re inspire me to be honest, truthful and better. But if I had to pick… E.E. Cummings, Shakespeare, Daniel MacIvor, Holly Hughes, Tina Fey, Rumi, Awakening The Buddha Within, The Dalai Lama, Paulo Coelho, Darren O’Donnell, Naoki Higashida. I’ve been reading Anatomy Of The Sprit by Caroline Myss. I’m enjoying it.
What is the most important lesson you have learned so far in your career?
Follow my gut.
What other projects do you have coming up and where can people find out more about you online?
Next, I’ll be in Carousel Theatre’s Sultan’s Of The Street from October 29th- November 13th. I’m also an actor with Lucas Talent Inc so maybe you’ll see me on your TV screen one day. And I made a new Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/esbchew
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Thanks to Evelyn Chew for speaking with us!
A Good Way Out is now playing at Pacific Theatre until October 15th. For tickets, please visit PacificTheatre.org.
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