Interview with Jill Bloede, director for Murder on the Orient Express
TC: Describe Murder on the Orient Express in 3 words.
JB: Captivating Case. Poirot. (OK, no fair only letting me choose 3 words. How about "You won't see the ending coming" or "Trickiest case for Hercule Poirot")
TC: Welcome back! What shows have you been involved in at Theatre Charlotte recently?
JB: Recently? Well, there was The Nerd, Addams Family, Christmas Carol, and most recently directed The Odd Couple. I had the privilege to perform Penny in You Can't Take it With You, and bucket-list-role: Lady Bracknell in The Importance of Being Earnest
TC: We assume you are thrilled to be directing this show, so talk to us about why you are excited and what you're most looking forward to.
JB: You assume correctly - I'm thrilled to direct this thriller!!! Having directed this one before for Belmont Abbey, I learned a lot and am looking forward to a new bunch of collaborators to bring this great script to life for a larger audience.
TC: Is there a particular character, scene, or song that you are most excited to see come to life?
JB: This show is an actor's dream. We have to believe them, then figure out Who Did It. Some actors play duplicitous characters which make them suspicious or innocent. Who is lying? Who is suppressing clues? WHO DID IT?
TC: What should audiences know about this show?
JB: I'm excited for any audience who has not seen the movies or read the book to find out if their guess is correct. For those who do know whodunnit, I hope this production will be just as thrilling as when they first enjoyed this story. At intermission, we will be polling the audience to see where their sleuthing takes them. It's so enjoyable to share their thoughts with the actors!
TC: Anything else you’d like to share?
JB: With the team creating the gorgeous train, the lighting and sound effects, and with the right cast/crew, this play has the potential for staying with you for a long time. It's IDEAL to see it Live - in person - at Theatre Charlotte!!
TC: Other than this one, what show are you most looking forward to in Season 98?
JB: Little Shop - I know every note!