Debra Hale kept you laughing in 2022’s Halfway There by Norm Foster. She kept you entertained in Freedom 85! as the writer/performer in multi-character, 2 woman show. She made you think and care in Storm Warning. And this was just at Lighthouse! She’s also performed in numerous other productions at Theatre Orangeville, Orillia Opera House, and 1000 Islands Playhouse, plus she’s been in TITANS on Netflix! Debra was kind enough to chat with us about what she loves about the character she’s playing, how she prepares for a new role, and what’s the most challenging part about working in theatre.
Lighthouse Festival (LF): What do you love about the character you’re playing?
Debra Hale (DH): I love that my character is soooo organized! I’m a Virgo so I really get that about Sheree. 😉
(LF): Why did you want to be involved in this production?
(DH): I’m jazzed about working with the director and cast on this show and the entire team. Out of the 4 other actresses I’ve worked with 3 before and they were all fantastic experiences. I hadn’t worked with one but had seen her work, she’s awesome onstage and off! And of course being directed by the insightful, collaborative and supportive Jane Spence is the best.
(LF): How do you prepare for a new role?
(DH): I research and look for details of connection between me and my character. And in this show, I’m finding a different fanny pack for each time we see Sheree. It’s all about the fanny pack!
(LF): What’s the most challenging aspect of working in theatre?
(DH): The most challenging aspect of theatre is saying goodbye to the family that inevitably the show creates. It’s bittersweet.
(LF): What’s the best piece of acting advice you’ve ever received?
(DH): Listen to what is being said to you in the scene. It’s not just about waiting for your cue…listen and respond. That’s ‘alive’ theatre.