From Queens to Colorado: Adrienne Asterita's Journey to Fun Home

Tell us about yourself! Where have audiences seen you before and where can they see you next?
I am originally from Queens/Long Island and moved to Colorado 3 years ago. My spouse grew up in Aurora, and we were both living in NYC when we met. We have three kids now and the youngest are twins, so they keep me pretty busy! The last show I was in as an actor was playing the Stepmother (Madame) in Cinderella here at Vintage. It was actually the first audition I went on in Colorado! I also do stage managing, plus I teach performing arts at Northglenn Youth Arts Academy, Miners Alley Playhouse summer camp program, and as a private acting coach.

For those who aren't familiar with this production, tell us about the story of Fun Home from your perspective. What makes it unique?
I think it’s unique because it really is a true story that is extremely candid and profound in the way it is told from the author’s perspective, who is also the narrator in the play. It feels very cathartic in her need to tell these stories, as a way to better understand them. She takes us on a real emotional journey, showing all the ups and downs of life as she discovers these things about herself and her family, and it’s pretty intense at times.

What has been your favorite memory (or memories) from the rehearsal process?
Honestly it’s the general vibe in the room. Everyone is so welcoming, kind, genuine, and fun! I have felt very supported and trusted in my work, which is an absolute gift as a performer. There have been so many beautiful discoveries we have all made during rehearsal, and have been given the space to do that without judgment. So I just love when any of us finds or tries something new, and then we compliment each other after. Oh and the snacks! There are always really yummy snacks!

What stands out to you about your character?
Oh wow, how much time do you have?! Helen is both complicated, and simplistic. She has so much she is dealing with, yet she chooses not to really do much about it. She could leave, but she doesn’t. She could tell people, or get help, but she doesn’t. What stands out to me, is that it is so relatable. I don’t think she feels she has a choice. I think she feels obligated to stick it out, and just keeps hoping it will get better. I think it’s also way too much for her to process, so she is really overwhelmed and becomes emotionally detached in order to stay safe, and sane.

Do you have a favorite line or scene from the show? What makes it special to you?
Probably the scene where Helen is at the piano, I call it the La, La song, because that’s mostly what I sing! I have to pretend to play piano for quite some time, while having a very intense emotional journey alone. It’s the first time we really see what’s going on with Helen, and the inner struggle she is hiding.

What do you hope audiences will take away from this show?
I hope that they know it is important to share your feelings, so you can learn from your experiences, and to get support however you need it. I hope they take comfort in knowing they are not alone in these struggles. I hope that there is a hopeful message that comes across too, of how it’s ok to see the good even if there are a lot of bad things surrounding it. That these two things can co-exist, and it is still ok. I hope people will seek ways to process their own difficult memories, and find the silver lining that makes them the beautiful person they are.

Fun Home opens on January 12th and runs through February 18th in the Bond-Trimble Theatre.