The Biz Interview: Angela Konrad

A director, teacher, and dramaturge in theatre for over 20 years, Angela Konrad has brought many of Pacific Theatre‘s productions to life. Her latest effort is John Patrick Shanley’s Outside Mullingar

Angela Konrad spoke to us about the process of building Outside Mullingar for Vancouver audiences.

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What is your involvement with Outside Mullingar and how did that get started?

I am directing the show. Ron Reed, Artistic Director of Pacific Theatre, invited me to take it on.

What drew you to be a part of this production?

The depth of the characters and the humour and humanity of the story.

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Can you share some of your creative process in preparing for the role – from the initial planning all the way to opening night?

I had the opportunity to travel to Ireland to visit the land where the play takes place. I stayed on a farm outside Mullingar, interviewed some of the locals, visited the village, and the church and the cemetery that are part of these characters’ lives. I got to work with fabulous, creative designers who dreamed and schemed with me in creating this world. I got to know more about Shanley and his connection to it. I read the play again and again. And then – the best part – rehearsal, where my incredible cast and I get to dig deeper and deeper into the heart of the story. We are uncovering such humour and pain and magic – it’s an absolute delight.

What should audiences expect from this show?

They should expect to laugh and to cry, to see themselves and those they love, to learn a bit about Ireland, to leave with a song in their hearts and a smile on their faces.

What are the three most important ingredients for a successful stage production?

Love, collaboration, risk-taking.

Are there any books or authors that have been influential to you so far in your creative journey?

Michael Shurtleff, William Ball, Brene Brown, Madeleine L’Engle, Lorna Marshall, Anne Bogart.

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“Trust your instincts.”

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What is the most important lesson you have learned so far in your career?

Trust your instincts.

What other projects do you have coming up and where can people find out more about you online?

Next year, my company Dark Glass Theatre will be presenting Ruined by Lynn Nottage as part of the Pacific Theatre 2017/18 season. You can learn more about me on our company website DarkGlassTheatre.com.

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Thanks to Angela Konrad for speaking with us!

You can see Outside Mullingar at Pacific Theatre until June 10th, 2017. Visit PacificTheatre.org for ticket information.