Thursday, April 3, 2008

Theater Spotlight of the Week: Ian Leson

By Shawn Parikh

Ian Leson is known around the DFW theater community as an incredible, award-winning actor. When I read he was switching things up and directing William Shakespeare's Richard III with Kitchen Dog Theater, I knew I had to feature him. And there is another switcharoo happening with this show: René Moreno, who is known in town as a very reputable theater director, is playing the title role in the show. So Leson and I had much to talk about.

Richard III

We begin by talking about his career, how he came to Dallas and became involved with Kitchen Dog Theater. He talks about how he chose this play as part of their season, what attracted him to it, and how René Moreno was chosen to play Richard III.

Since this is one of his first times directing such a large scale production, I ask him whether he prefers acting over directing and why.

The play is a new adaptation, so I ask him what is different about this version, what the audience should expect, and what gives the show its "Kitchen Dog edge." He also talks about the misconceptions and preconceived notions people have towards Richard III.

Of course, I had to ask him what it was like to direct Mr. Moreno and if that was intimidating. Leson also talks about the rest of the cast and how collaborative the show is with actors playing multiple roles.

As always, I ask him what he wants the audience to ultimately walk away with. We end by talking about his favorite role as an actor and what role he still dreams to play.

Richard III runs from April 4 - May 3 and tickets can be purchased online or by calling 214-953-1055. Click on the title for more info on show dates and times.

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