Dan Payne – Think Tank

Q.  What are some of the recent projects you’ve been working on?

A.  I had a little fun on the upcoming Canadian series “Whistler.”  I am also anxiously awaiting the theatrical release of John Tucker Must Die, and the family at “Stargate: Atlantis” had me back for an action packed episode.

Q.  What can you tell us about the premise for the show “Alice I Think” and about your character John?

A.  It is a comedy with universal appeal to all ages.  It’s about a fifteen year old girl who has been home-schooled for ten years by loving yet ineffective parents, and then thrown back into the mix of public school to fend for herself.  John is Alice’s father.  He has a big heart, a free spirit and good intentions which hopefully make up for the fact that he is somewhat lacking as a parent.  John loves his band the Hoar Hounds and does his best to keep the family candle-making business alive.  Some call him a charming slacker.

Q.  What made you want to be a part of this show?

A.  I was ecstatic to be offered a comedic role that would play against my physicality.  When I read the audition the character and comedy jumped off the page.  It was one of the best written scripts I’ve read.  A chance to play!!

Q.  Do you have a most memorable moment from working on the show?

A.  Wow, there are so many moments that stick in my mind – wearing a used Speedo, falling off the balcony, having a sex talk with my daughter, sitting in a kiddie pool with two other grown men – to name a few.  The whole thing was a great ride!

Q.  Why should viewers be taking the time to tune in to this show?

A.  I think the writers have found a universal sense of comedy and added loads and loads of laughs for all ages.  There are so many situations and incidents that everyone can relate to either from their own childhood past or present and the trials and tribulations of being a parent.

Q.  Your character John front-runs a band.  What kind of musical talent, if any, do you possess?

A. I am a great appreciator of music, if you know what I mean!!  The first time the music coordinator handed me a guitar he said, oh so you play it Hendrix Style.  After a long blank stare from me he realized his job was going to be tough, but we worked hard and I had a blast.  Still learning about the guitar but at least I can hold it correctly now!

Q.  What would you say are some of the similarities and differences you share with your character?

A.  The similarities I have with John are a free spirit, goofiness, fun loving nature, and a quirkiness – or so I am told.  As for differences – I would like to think I have a far greater work ethic!!  I have to finish projects that I start!  I definitely analyze things more than John does.  Truthfully though, my friends who have had a sneak peek say there is a fine line between the two of us, still working out whether or not that is a compliment!

Q.  What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

A.  I love hanging out with my wife. We go to the gym, hang out with our dogs (two pugs), watch movies, travel – keep the spontaneity alive – that kind of thing.  I personally love to play a few sports like hockey and beach volleyball.  My cousin and I are on the same hockey team and play every week and I hit the beach in Kits when the weather permits for some volleyball.

Q.  Do you have a latest obsession? Are you into any particular book, music group, sport or activity?

A.  My wife would say I am obsessed with hockey because I got season tickets to the Canucks and I play and watch, ok maybe I am a little during playoffs!   I love coming across music that draws me in like James Blunt at the moment or a book that you can’t put down like ‘The Alchemist’ by Paulo Coehlo.

Q.  What would you like to say to all of your fans and supporters?

A.  I would love all my family, friends and fans to know I am grateful to them for the support, counseling, guidance, butt-kickings and inspiration.  I love where I am and love the thought of pursuing new adventures and finding all life has to offer.