The Biz Interview: Kyle Mosonyi and Amy Rhead

“Mal and Cara” – the new play from writer-director Clive Scarff – is currently in full swing.

We chatted with two other members of the cast – Kyle Mosonyi and Amy Rhead – about their roles in the show and what they’re up to.

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Can you start by telling us a little bit about you and your involvement with “Mal and Cara”?

Kyle Mosonyi: I am playing the role of Kris, Mal and Cara’s new flight attendant neighbour. I am somewhat newer to the theatre world, having done mostly film and television work in my young career. I jumped at the chance for this role after reading the audition sides. The scene was hilarious and I saw this as a great opportunity in broadening my acting range.

Amy Rhead: I’m a third generation Greater Vancouver-ite. Since my early twenties, I have acted in about twenty independent and community theatre productions in the Lower Mainland. By day, I work in marketing management to support my less lucrative passions for theatre and billiards.

I play Beth in “Mal and Cara.” I learned about the audition from Sarah Harlow (Cara). Sarah and I had performed together at the Metro Theatre, and I was happy for the chance to work with her again. I love that “Mal and Cara” is based in Vancouver and written and directed by a Vancouver resident.

What can audiences expect from the show?

Kyle Mosonyi: I think audiences can expect a fun show with loads of Vancouverite-related Easter eggs.

Amy Rhead: Expect a generally good time and a few big laughs when you come see “Mal and Cara.” It’s a clever show with a simple story; a bit reminiscent of a sitcom.

What do you find to be the most interesting aspect of your character?

Kyle Mosonyi: The most interesting aspect of my character is his ability to make significant career changes at the snap of a finger. I can relate to this on a fundamental level. After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, I was accepted into medical school. However, my love for movies pulled me into film school instead. I then transitioned into acting at the ripe age of 30.

Amy Rhead: Audiences will get to see different sides of Beth. She’s straightforward, but silly. She’s edgy, but well-meaning. She’s snide, but sweet. I enjoy playing her comical moments very much.

What was your preparation process like?

Kyle Mosonyi: I prioritized learning my lines as soon as possible. Just straight up zombie memorization. Then through the rehearsal process, the character’s line delivery and physicality are refined until it jives with the director’s vision.

Amy Rhead: A lot of work goes into preparing for a show. I spend hours reading the script to really get to know my character and her dynamic with the other characters, and to memorize my lines. I also ask my Director a lot of questions and try to wholeheartedly trust in his or her process.

What do you specifically enjoy about acting on stage?

Kyle Mosonyi: I enjoy the “loudness” of acting on stage. In my film and television experience, subtlety and quietness tend to be favoured. It’s not often I have the chance to tap into this acting frequency.

Amy Rhead: It’s challenging and exhilarating. No two performances are ever exactly the same. Every night could hold a surprise – more laughter, a full house, a few dropped lines and quick recover, a misplaced prop, a perfectly delivered bit, friends in the audience…

What theatre-related books have been influential to you in your career thus far?

Kyle Mosonyi: I haven’t read up on any theatre-specific literature. However, influential acting-related books for me include “The Power of the Actor” and “The Intent to Live.”

What’s the most important lesson that you’ve learned in your career?

Kyle Mosonyi: The most important lesson I’ve learned is to keep the gears moving. If you stand still and wait for opportunities, you’re going to be standing there for awhile. Nothing will happen. And you need to keep a positive attitude… while also not being delusional.

Amy Rhead: Listen. Listen to your Director, always. And, on-stage as your character, listen to your fellow actors – be completely present in every scene/moment. For a production to be successful, the cast and crew must function really well as a team and be extremely supportive of each other.

What other projects are you involved with beyond “Mal and Cara”?

Kyle Mosonyi: Beyond “Mal and Cara,” I try to keep active in the film and television world. Just last year I wrote, directed and co-stared in a TV pilot called “To the Madness.” It’s a 30-minute comedy about two criminals who decide to move to Los Angeles and become actors. I have just begun submitting the project to film festivals in hopes of turning some heads!

Amy Rhead: Nothing else yet, but I’ll keep you posted.

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Thanks to Kyle Mosonyi and Amy Rhead for speaking with us!

“Mal and Cara” is on at the PAL Theatre until April 28th.

For tickets, please visit MalandCara.BrownPaperTickets.com