Theatre Works

Hello, everybody!  My name is Ben and I play the part of Benjamin Cohen in Theatre Work’s production of The Underpants.  I’m pleased to report rehearsals are going very well and I’m very excited to see the show come together so quickly.

I can’t wait for you to meet the rest of the cast.  Each actor is putting a lot of time and attention into their roles.  With the script committed to memory, my attention is now focused on finding the little details, those ticks and quirks that makes Cohen tick and quirk.  To say Cohen is “awkward beyond the point of being socially crippled” is putting it mildly.  I am proud to say I am never the coolest cat at the party, but Cohen takes it quite a bit further.  In creating Cohen, I get revel in those embarrassing interpersonal moments we all try so hard to forget.  It’s more fun than I would have thought possible and I think it will add quite a few laughs to a script already chock full of comedy.

One of the biggest challenges for the cast right now is working in such tight quarters.  I’m a big fan of the Mason’s auditorium, but the stage is probably no bigger than half a tennis court.  Add furniture and props and suddenly it takes quite a bit of finesse for a cast of seven adults to appear graceful and un-cramped.  Find your child’s shoebox diorama of the first Thanksgiving and you’ll understand the scale I’m talking about.  Oh, and I’m 6’4”, so I count as two squaws and a Squanto.

This is my first show with TWRI and I couldn’t be more thrilled.  With Connie at the helm, the ensemble by my side, and a supportive community eager to support by any means necessary, I can say with confidence that Woonsocket is in for a treat.  Bring your friends and family and we will see you soon!

Cheers!
Ben