Michele Martin – Avalon

By starrymag | August 3, 2017

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

Q) What are the recent projects that you are working on?

 

A) Currently, I star in an indie film Blue with Kenny Johnson and Kelly McGillis about a boy with a rare skin disorder that turns his skin blue. I play Pearl Murphy, a girl dealing with an abusive alcoholic father while caring for her younger sisters. Blue (Drew Connick) and Pearl have suffered great hardships, but the story is really about love and acceptance. The idea that just one person can change your life. Blue is available on Amazon. I’m very proud of that little film. Coffin 2, the sequel to a popular thriller, is premiering at ScareLA and will be out on Red Box and in theatres soon. I play Olivia. I’d love to say more…but I’d give away too much. [wink] I also have a small yet pivotal role in Last Rampage with Heather Graham and Robert Patrick. As you know, I have also been cast as Nora in A Doll’s House with Sir Ben Kingsley.

 

Q) We’ll be seeing you in “Avalon” in Edinburgh. How did you become a part of the show?

 

A) Charles Huddleston, the writer/ Director of “Avalon,” cast me as Natalie in the play. We have worked with each other in Blue and he felt I was right for the role. I am so glad because I love her and it’s been incredible exploring her life on and off screen.

 

Q) Were you familiar with your costars before joining them on stage?

 

A) I have seen Sean’s [Cronin] work and we share the same the same agent in London, but I did not know him personally. He came on in the midnight hour and saved the show…that is why it isn’t as full a production. But it has lots of energy and it has been an incredible pleasure working with him…Mostly via Skype (how we have prepared)! We really connect as actors and as human beings. He is so much more in this than the villain characters that he is known for.

 

Q) Did you do much research into the life of Natalie Wood for your portrayal?

 

A) Yes, I have done extensive research into Natalie’s life.

 

Q) How have you been preparing for the show?

 

A) I watched all of her films…multiple documentaries and have read everything I could get my hands on. I bore people with the details! I love research. One of my favorite things!

 

Q) What do you think it is about this particular story that makes it timeless?

 

A) Avalon is timeless, not just due to two characters that are iconic and historic but the universal themes the show touches on. Loss, loneliness, forgiveness and love.
Q) What else do you want to be sure fans know about “Avalon?”

 

A) I want fans to know that this show is utterly unique. Quirky and over the top one moment and deeply emotional the next. I think there is something in the play that will appeal to a wide audience.

 

Q) Please tell us a little bit about your upcoming role in the remake of A Doll’s House.

 

A) I am excited and feel a great responsibility playing Nora. She is as important as ever for women.

 

Q) Any nerves about working with Sir Ben Kinglsey?

 

A) Sir Ben is obviously an incredible thespian. He is also a very giving man who has put me at ease. He is my hero in film. Arguably the greatest actor ever. I am not nervous yet. I probably will be a bit. But once I am on character…I will be at ease.

 

Q) You are a part of social media. Why is that such an important way for you to interact with your fans?

 

A) Social media has been wonderful way to thank my fans and I try to let them know I care. I have a great group of people in my Twitterverse. I feel grateful for my fans and friends I have met via Twitter.

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?

 

A) Just thank you from the bottom of my heart for your support. We are nothing without the people who surrounded us.