Sitting down with Adam: Timothy McDermott

Tell us a bit about yourself:

What can you tell us about your character/role in this production (without revealing spoilers)?
Adam is Jane’s older brother. In the show, he is presented in a series of honey-colored childhood memories. He’s almost too good to be true. I can say no more.
 
What do you find exciting and challenging about this project?
I can honestly say this play is unlike anything I’ve done before. So much of the story exists in a weird space between memory and imagination (The Twilight Zone?!), making it quite a surreal experience. The play travels to some dark places, and I think I can safely say the entire cast has stretched beyond their comfort level to perform the play with respect and truth.
 
Have you ever worked with Gaslight Theatre Company before? How has it been working with them on this show?
Gaslight is one of the few theatre companies in the area truly devoted to bringing challenging, uncommon, and under-produced plays to the stage. I’ve worked with them on a number of productions, and each experience has been fulfilling, educational, and, above all, fun. This production has been no exception. 
 
What is it like working with a living and local playwright?
Truthfully, it was a little intimidating at first. Rachel attended a few of the early rehearsals, and in the back of my mind I kept thinking, “There she is. Try to be acceptable!” She ended up being an invaluable resource – answering questions, giving feedback, offering clarification when needed. She also stepped away from the production and gave us room to take her words and turn them into living, breathing characters. 
 
What is your favorite part of the process so far?
Personally, I’m a fan of the rehearsal process. Jonathan, our director, created an environment rich with collaboration and openness on day one and has fostered communication throughout. He has allowed us to give input not only on our own characters but on each other’s as well. Some of the best bits of the show came from these rehearsal discussions.
 
What is your favorite line from the play (and who says it)?
Ophelia yells “hot dogs!” a bunch of times throughout the play. If you haven’t heard someone yell “hot dogs!” then get ready to truly learn what joy is.
 
Anything else you’d like to add?
Listen to more Bowie.

Drowning Ophelia opens January 28 at the Theater at Lackawanna College and runs through January 31. Head on over to our Up Next page to find out how you can see it!

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