An Interview with Russ Dale

Spotlight Theatre is a local playhouse here in Denver that has a constant stream of great plays and amazing actors that grace its stage.

The latest production is no different. “The Mousetrap” By: Agatha Christie is running until March 28^th and tickets are selling out quickly. Make sure you don’t miss this humorous play, the reviews have been positive and the actors seem to be having a lot of fun.

I had the pleasure of interviewing Russ Dale, who has a fitting role in this Spotlight Theatre produced play. I wish I could give my own review on this; however I failed to get tickets in time, so I will have to live vicariously from the words of local critics and clips I get to see on Mr. Dale’s photo page.

Russ Dale

What were auditions like?

Auditions were an interesting, chaotic experience. It is intimidating at times to see all of the talent in the room and then the horror realization sets in that one has to compete with said talent for a role. I often get disheartened and question my abilities as an actor when I am in a room full of great actors doing their acting thing.

How long have you been acting?

I have been acting since I was in elementary school through high school and college. I took an 8-year hiatus and picked it back up in August 2008. I missed it.

What role do you play in this Spotlight Theatre production?

I play the role of Major Metcalf, a square-shouldered man, very military in manner and bearing. He is hearty, polite and easygoing. He is optimistic, pleasant and kind. He is modest, logical and down-to-earth. He’s very much like me, the Russ Dale!

How did you prepare for this Major Metcalf?

I worked with a dialect coach to learn a British accent to prepare for the role of Major Metcalf. This show is a healing for me, as one of my failings as a human being is a dislike of most-things British. I’m not fond of British humor and British’s children’s voices are like fingernails screeching on a chalkboard in my life. I have a newfound appreciation of the British ways but am in no way cured of my affliction. I also, painfully of course, watched some “Blackadder,” the movie “Gosford Park” and drove around in my car reciting British dialogue, mimicking what I heard from a dialect tape while trying not to choke to death on the bile I was coughing up.

What is your favorite line in this play?

Miss Casewell’s line: “Chilblains raw and bleeding” makes me laugh every time I hear it. I must muffle my laughter backstage.

Do you have any more roles coming up? If so, what and what theatre?

I am really looking forward to my next role as Sal, a hit man/gourmet chef, in the regional premiere dark comedy “Den of Thieves” with the Vintage Theatre in November 2009. The play was written by Stephen Adly Guirgis and is directed by Bernie Cardell.

If you could be in ANY play as a supporting actor, which one would it be?

I would like to play Amos Heart in the musical “Chicago.” The song “Mister Cellophane” speaks to me on many levels.

If you could be in ANY play as the lead actor, which one would it be?

I would love to play Hamlet in Shakespeare’s “Hamlet,” a play.

Any tips you have for aspiring actors?

The only tip I would have for aspiring actors is to stick with it if you love it. One thing that bothers me about many actors is that acting consumes the life entire. I believe there should be a healthy balance between acting and living. There are plenty of other things to talk and learn about besides “the craft.” I urge actors to broaden their pallet and experience new and interesting things beyond the realm of acting. Knowledge is everywhere. Absorb as much as you can!

Thank you so much to Mr. Dale for taking the time to interview with me and good luck on ALL of your future endeavors!

‘Mousetrap’ reviews mentioning Russ Dale:

“Thoroughly entertaining!” says David Marlowe from Outfront and Life on Capitol Hill, “Russ Dale’s Major Metcalf is credible in a minor but key role. “

“…well acted, making it well worth the trip across town to see,” says Craig Williamson, North Denver Tribune, “Russ Dale is solid as Major Metcalf, delivering some funny lines as he avoids the unpleasant Mrs. Boyle, played by Peggy Miller.”

***ATTACHED IMAGES BY MEG RALPH*