Todd Black

Todd Black

The Inheritance

April 7th — May 14th

The Inheritance is a production not a lot of theatres take on for the simple fact that it’s broken into two parts. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges behind-the-scenes?

It's an exciting challenge. This is the first time I've performed in a play broken into two parts. I'm anxious to see how it flows. The biggest challenge I can foresee is to keep track of what part is being performed on which days. :)

What excites you about The Inheritance and the role you are playing?

The minute I read this play I knew I wanted to be a part of it. It's rare you read a play that is so full of life, energy, pathos and hope. It jumps off the page. It's also important to tell this story to educate the audience about the humanity of a group that has been marginalized and vilified over time. And after so many successes, now feels being targeted once again. If there's one thing history has taught us is that you can't keep people down. They'll rise up, make their voices heard and keep pressing forward to make the next generation better for the next. My role as Walter is pivotal. He's the voice of reason, the connection that keeps the thread of these stories together. He knows he has the power and responsibility to pass the torch, pass his inheritance to a new generation that is plagued with doubt about their futures and the future of their country. He also provides a voice for the ones silenced by a plague he hopes to relay to the next generation to honor their memories and sacrifice.

Do you feel an epic like this can feel a bit daunting? Is there more pressure on you as a performer, and how do you prepare for that?

A bit daunting, yes. It doesn't feel as daunting to me as I'm not constantly on stage as the others. That has to feel very daunting. Everyone in this cast is amazing. We'll rise to the challenge and give the audience something magical.

It’s not often you see a two-part theatre production. I’d imagine family or friends are either super intrigued by the idea or hesitant when you tell them. Have you heard any of these sentiments?

I liken it to the two parts of Angels in America. That gives people a better foundation on what to expect because that show is well known for its two-part presentation. It also gives them a framework to understand that a story of this kind, with many epic themes, needs the space to be told with dignity.

What’s your biggest challenge about taking on this role?

My biggest challenge is giving this character layers. He's the rock, but I want his humanity to show through: his humor, vulnerability, regrets and hope.

How did you get started performing?

In high school. We mounted a production of Rebel Without a Cause. Been hooked ever since.

Why do you still perform?

I think it's because live performing means more than ever. Living in the digital age, dealing with the disconnection and loneliness during Covid, having our humanity stripped away by toxic social media, it's becoming more important to reconnect with other humans with live storytelling. It gets back to our roots as social creatures, craving stories from the heart to connect our collective consciousness.

What’s your dream role, and what do you feel you would bring to it?

I was very fortunate to play my dream role of George in Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? For the future, any part that might be gender-fluid, has contradictions and strength.

What’s a fun fact people may not know about you?

I love to draw! Mostly male nudes. :) One of my favorite movies of all time is Cinema Paradiso.