Freelance Text and Voice Coach, Director and Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) Associate Artist Alison Bomber has returned to The Ohio State University Department of Theatre to guest direct Romeo and Juliet after directing the department’s successful production of Othello in 2011. We caught up with Alison about her inspirations, her directing process and her collaborations with the theatrical team.
Ray’Anthony: Where are you from and where did your passion for theater begin?
Alison: I was born and raised north of London, my passion for theatre stems from the language in William Shakespeare’s plays. I worked with theater companies in Poland, New York and London. Also I am a text and voice coach, helping actors to understand Shakespearean language and bringing the world of the play to life on stage.
Ray’Anthony: What were some productions that made your interest for theater grow?
Alison: My love for theater dates back to my childhood. My interest grew by watching musicals, listening to the music and watching the action from behind the scenes. The musical Kiss Me Kate was one particular musical that caught my attention. The backstage footage influenced my decision to be a voice and text coach. I believe the interaction between the actors and the audience creates an energy that can be felt through the performance. I train the actors to use the words as if they are painting a picture because the words are essential in any performance.
Ray’Anthony: How do you prepare for your productions, particularly Romeo and Juliet?
Alison: I prepare to direct for the production of Romeo and Juliet by cutting the text and then working with the actors to explore all the possibilities of Shakespeare’s language. The actors must get inside the language in order to portray the characters correctly. I start in the room with the actors and the words. That, for me, is building that relationship between the actors and the words. Get inside their bodies and allow them to unpack and play.
Ray’Anthony: How would you describe your experience with the actors and directors?
Alison: My experience with directing is more of a collaborative experience since I work with writers, actors and directors. Without my theatrical team, shows wouldn’t be as touching. It is important to me that theater performances move the audience. I want storytelling that is exciting. I want that language that wakes up ears and I want actors living full vivid lives on stage.
Romeo and Juliet runs through Sunday, Oct. 30, presented by The Ohio State University Department of Theatre in the Roy Bowen Theatre, Drake Performance Center, 1849 Cannon Dr. For tickets, call (614) 292-2295 or visit theatre.osu.edu.
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