Reflections on Playing Fräulein Schneider
This past spring I attended the annual party at Vintage Theater to announce the new season. I was really looking forward to it since it is an occasion to catch up with friends and to see what shows would be good audition opportunities .
After much fanfare, the first show of the season was announced; "CABARET"!
I instantly grabbed Tim's arm and said, 'That's mine!" My blood pressure went up 20 points!
I impatiently waited for the audition and, even more impatiently, waited for "the call".
The phone rang as I was having dinner a few days following the audition and Bernie's name popped up on the screen. Hopefully, I sounded more calm than I felt when I answered the phone. I believe I said yes before Bernie even finished his sentence offering me the role of Fräulein Schneider.
Item in bucket list checked off! This is a role I have waited for!
Why?
Fräulein Schneider is a such complicated character. She feels she must make heartbreaking decisions when there is no right answer. "Suppose you're one quiet voice being told what the choice must be," she sings toward the end of the play. Fräulien's last speech, "I regret...everything!" Her self doubt will last a lifetime. So much to consider creating Fräulein.
My challenge in playing her was to realistically convey the excitement, hope, happiness, and sadness in a way with which the audience will relate, understand, and empathize.
She will live in my heart forever.
The audience reaction to Frâulein and to Cabaret as a whole has been overwhelming. The kind words of strangers leaves me speechless. One audience member grabbed me by the arm, hugged me, and said, "Thank you for your gift.” That brought me to tears.
This entire process has filled my soul. Bernie Cardell is an actor's dream. It's amazing how one simple word or expression can change your approach to something. Rehearsals were so productive. This cast is one of the loveliest groups of people I have ever had the honor to work with, and I have been at this awhile. I finally got to share the stage with Brian Trampler, the perfect scene partner.
As Fräulein Schneider says, “I must lie down, my head is spinning!” It will be hard for my next show, whatever it may be, to compete with my Cabaret experience.
Cabaret runs through October 22nd.