Interviewer Front Row Reviewers (FRR): Amy, it’s a pleasure to have you here to talk about The Kitchen Sink. This show has generated a lot of buzz, and we’re excited to delve into it. For starters, can you give us the craziest or most creative summary of the plot?
Amy Brown Coffin: Imagine if lives were weaved through the memories a home keeps. The kitchen, the soul of a house, would convey the tales of six families over the course of 50 years. It’s a journey through time, emotions, and the essence of what makes a home truly special.
FRR: That sounds fascinating! If you had to describe the process of putting on this show with one word, what would it be and why?
Amy: “Transformative.” The process has been a deep dive into not just the characters and their stories, but also into understanding how our own lives and experiences shape our perceptions of home and family.
FRR: What is the most interesting, funny, or wonderful thing you’ve learned while working on this production?
Amy: From Nick Matthews, one of our talented actors, I’ve learned a lot about character development. He said, “To play the various parts, I mine the script for the usual: what the character is pursuing, why they’re pursuing it, how they feel about the other person, etc. Then I add shades of an attitude and a physicality from that age, and we explore those in rehearsal. We figure out what’s working and what needs adjustment. I like to use the character’s first line in the scene as my gateway phrase, which is a line people rely on when they want to slide into an accent or impersonation.” It’s been incredible to see how each actor brings something unique to their roles.
FRR: That’s such an insightful approach. Now, what do you do right before each performance to get ready? And right after each performance?
Amy: Before each performance and rehearsal, I kiss my 6-year-old daughter and husband before I head out the door. I look forward to going home to see them after each performance. It’s ironic that this play is all about what a home experiences, and my greatest desire is to spend time at home with my family. That is what I love about Cordelia Brand‘s play. She gets to the heart and soul of the human experience and our connection to our abode. Since having a child, I have become a homebody, and I love it. I wonder what stories our home would tell. Maybe I will write a play one day about that…
FRR: That’s beautiful, Amy. It really shows how intertwined life and art can be. What is your favorite inside-joke from the show? A quote or line? Costume? Set piece? Anything that stands out?
Amy: From Nick Matthews again: “I love the opportunity to swing in and out of each role. Secondly, I love that each vignette has its own tenor, its own energy. There’s a lot of room to explore there. Thirdly, I love that The Kitchen Sink shows that no matter the decade, the slang, or the dress, relationship ups and downs stay the same.” It’s those little moments and connections that make the show so special.
FRR: It sounds like The Kitchen Sink is a rich tapestry of stories and emotions, reflecting on the essence of what makes a home. We can’t wait to see it unfold at the Salt Lake Fringe Festival in the Ballroom. For those interested, the show dates are July 27-28 and August 3-4. For more information and tickets, visit speakeasytheatrecompany.org.
Thank you so much, Amy, for sharing your insights and experiences with us. We’re looking forward to an amazing performance!
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