Meet the Cast of Twelfth Night! Spotlight on Sam O'Sullivan (Valentine / Officer / Priest)
In Shakespeare's time it wasn't uncommon for players within the troupe to play many roles and wear multiple hats (literally!) This was an efficient way to tell a story with a small group. The trick in doing it effectively? Creating a strong ensemble of actors capable of jumping in and out of the big bold characters they create.
The supporting ensemble of a Shakespearean production is crucial as they are the ones to add depth and color to a production.
This summer we're thrilled to introduce Sam O'Sullivan to our community. As a crucial member of Twelfth Night's ensemble Sam jumps effortlessly from the jealous Valentine, to the bumbling priest, to a commanding officer with ease.
Get Sam's take on the brilliant bard and Twelfth Night below!
Name: Sam O'Sullivan
What character do you play in Twelfth Night?
Valentine / Officer / Priest
Where are you originally from?
Sacramento, CA
When you're not onstage, what can you be found doing?
Just graduated from Marymount Manhattan College with a BFA in Acting, working at the Sunshine Cinema, producing short films, on the quest for the greatest taco shop in New York.
What intrigues you most about Shakespeare?
His characters are so real and 3 dimensional that we use them as models to live our lives.
What character is on your Shakespeare "bucket list" to play?
Prince Hal from Henry IV Parts 1 & 2 because I love his coming of age arc. The feelings that he's going through in these plays are the same that I'm going through so he's super relatable.
Favorite Shakespearean quote:
"Some Men must love my lady, and some Joan." - Berowne, Loves Labour's Lost
Twelfth Night is a classic tale of twins shipwrecked and separated in a foreign land. Both assuming the other has perished - search for a way to survive in this strange new world. In doing so, they find themselves quickly caught up in the shenanigans of a world filled with clowns, pirates, and lovers.
Twelfth Night performs July 14, 15, 21, 22 at 7pm and July 23 at 5pm at the Alchemical Theatre Laboratory. Tickets may be purchased in advance here.
About Classics on the Rocks:
At Classics on the Rocks, we believe that just as whiskey doesn't need anything more than rocks to tame it's bite. Shakespeare doesn't need fancy concepts, modernizations, frilly costumes, or big sets to make it relatable. All you need are talented actors who trust the text and tell the story. It's classics served simply on the rocks.
