Acorn

Issue date: 2/29/08 Section: Arts and Leisure

Media Credit: Chris Ceraso

Two Drew professors, Chris Ceraso from the Theatre Arts department and James Hala from the English department, are starring alongside students in the Drew University Dramatic Society's production of "The Tempest." The Acorn asked Ceraso and Hala about acting with students.


The Acorn: Can you tell me about your professional acting experience and how it compares to acting in "The Tempest"?

Chris Ceraso: I have been a professional actor for 30-plus years and have worked primarily in theatre, having done probably about 100 plays. I have a particular love of Shakespeare, but I have also specialized in new contemporary plays. I have also appeared on the "Law and Order" shows several times-small roles, but nice ones. I'm also a playwright and screenwriter.

A: What about "The Tempest" and the character you play made you want to be part of this production?

C.C.: "The Tempest" is a magnificent play about the uses and abuses of power, the importance of healing and rebirth, love, dignity, art and passion. The character of Prospero embodies all of these themes and has some of the most magnificent language ever written for the stage.

A: How does it feel to act alongside students?

C.C.: The same as acting anywhere, because our students are dedicated, smart, talented and brave.



The Acorn: How does it feel to make your acting debut?

James Hala: Not technically my debut. I was in a [Drew University Dramatic Society] production of "Bloody Poetry" maybe 15 years ago. I even won a special Cheeky. But the time between then and now makes this all feel new. What I did remember vividly, however, was the Bowne Theatre stage. Stages are very cool places.

A: How is performing a classical work different from teaching one.

J.H.: When you have to ask yourself "Why is my character saying this at this moment?" it gives you a very different perspective. "The Tempest" is a delightful play, but acting in it, you come to realize that it is not Shakespeare's most accomplished. There's a lot of lengthy exposition in it.

A: How does it feel working alongside students?

J.H.: Delightful, as always. I've been the adviser of [That Medieval Thing] since its beginning. I've been on the Honduras project, the London semester and a DIS, and I don't know how many committees with students. And my reaction is always the same-I'm very fortunate to be able to work with these people.

Page 1 of 1

Article Tools