Huse Madhavji – Utopia Falls

By starrymag | February 18, 2020

By:  Mary Watkins

 

 

Q) What are the recent projects you have been busy working on?

 

A) I have a couple projects I’m currently writing but no major news yet, but soon. But not yet, but soon! And aside from “Utopia Falls,” you’ll hear me in a new Disney Jr. cartoon “Mira Royal Detective” and PBS’s Daniel Tiger.

 

 

Q) Now “Utopia Falls” is about a group of kids who have to compete in a performance arts competition and discover some music relics. What can you tell us about the show and why the relics are so important?

 

A) “Utopia Falls” takes place in a very controlled society called New Babyl where the art created and showcased is very patriotic. The kids discover hip-hop and are introduced to artists like Biggie and Kendrick Lamar for the very first time, artists who create music and hold up a mirror to their society – good and bad. This discovery inspires the kids to do the same but it’s something that’s never been done in their society and it sets off all the wrong people!

 

Q) What was it about this show that made you want to join?

 

A) The thing that got me on board right off the bat was RT [Thorne].  We’ve collaborated in the past, created together and he’s directed me in a few projects. He also happens to be one of my closest friends. So, knowing “Utopia Falls” was his and knowing the level of passion, skill and commitment he brings to everything he does, I knew it would be special.

 

Q) Tells us about your character Mentor Watts on “Utopia Falls.”

 

A) I play a former champion of the Exemplar, the competition all the kids join. I’m aware of the discipline and hard work it takes to win and so, as their mentor, I consider it my job to bring out the very best in each of them and sometimes that requires some tough love. And in the case with this new batch of competitors, A LOT of tough love!

 

Q) Is there anything you add to your character that wasn’t originally part of him?

 

A) I’m really brining all of me to the role. There are moments where I might show more compassion during times that could’ve been interpreted otherwise and vice-versa. But really, playing Mentor Watts is collaboration between the shows writer’s, directors and myself.

 

Q) What was your audition like for this role?

 

A) I remember thinking, audition?! But…But…I know RT! It turns out that wasn’t enough, at all! I was in LA at the time and had a close friend of mine help me record it and we emailed the audition back to Toronto.

 

Q) Why kind of preparation did you do for this role?

 

A) Physically, I grew a beard for my character. I just feel more serious and grounded when I have a beard. Believe it or not, facial help did so much of the work! Outside of that, I made sure to communicate with RT, the showrunner Joseph Mallozzi and supervising producer Ivon Bartok who all gave such valuable information.

 

Q) Do you do any singing in the show?

 

A) Off camera, all the time! But on the show, I don’t.

 

Q) Did you know any of your costars before working with them?

 

A) Yes, a few of them! Milton [Barnes] and I did a few seasons of “Saving Hope” together. I’ve also worked with Kate [Drummond], Dwain [Murphy], Alex [Castillo] and Humberly [Gonzalez].

 

Q) How was working on “Utopia Falls” different than working on previous projects?

 

A) What made “Utopia Falls” different for me was saying words, behaving and moving in a TV series created by one of my dudes. It is such a gift to bring life to something that once existed in your friend’s mind! That and being able to play someone serious, someone serious with a beard – a serious beard!

 

Q) So far what has been your favorite scene to shoot?

 

A) I want to answer this question, but it requires a spoiler and that’s going to ruin the experience. Just know that I have had so many wonderful experiences working with old friends, new friends and fresh talent!

 

Q) Tell everyone why they should tune in to “Utopia Falls.”

 

A) At the very surface “Utopia Falls” is compelling, fun and very creative. But the undercurrent of this show, I believe, is really a comment on society, the power of art and the individual. It’s inspiring, powerful and something I highly suggest not missing!