Theater Spotlight of the Week: Vanessa Mercado-Taylor

by Shawn Parikh

Project X: Theatre is known for its unconventional performances, and this week is no different. The company is opening The Hallucinogenic Toreador, the show about Salvador Dali, which recently received major success in Prague at the Fringe Festival. Now, they are bringing it to Dallas in collaboration with Limehouse Theater, and who better to feature this week than Director Vanessa Mercado-Taylor.

I begin the interview by asking how she became part of Project X and what intrigued her in creating this show. She discusess the origin of the piece with writer John Flores, and how Limehouse Theater of Ohio has become a partner.

Having performed in Prague, I ask how much will change for the Dallas production and if she feels that the response to the piece will be different here.

Since the title of the piece is taken from "Dali’s most autobiographical painting," I ask what made the painting so personal. Also, with a show about art and surrealism, I ask her what the audience can expect during the show with its abstract concept.

Finally, I end the interview by asking what she wants the audience to walk away talking about.

The production runs from December 4 - 13, and tickets are $10 at the door.