Dallas Fav Rhianna Mack on "Passing Strange"

by J. Sanders-Nelson

“Passing Strange” is bursting at the seams with melodic songs, and it features a handful of theatrical performances to treasure.” (New York Times, 2008)

Always supportive of my artist family, I took a moment to learn more about the play “Passing Strange” via a posting on Facebook by longtime friend Rhianna Mack. I have to say, this sounds like my kind of show, innovative music and an exploration of finding one’s self as an artist. I had to know more. I took a moment to contact Rhianna and chat a bit about this daring musical.

Ok Rhi, Passing Strange sounds like my kind of story, full of thrilling experiences and good groovin’ music. Tell me a little bit about the production from your perspective.

First of, Thank YOU for this opportunity of being able to share info about the AWESOME-NESS of Passing Strange on your blog!!!

It's like what you mentioned- The music in this show (written by the super-talented Stew & Heidi Rodewald) is deeply poetic, thought provoking and moving on a variety of levels. It is not cheesy show tunes by any means. This artistically unorthodox production delves into issues of identity, love, family, faith, passion, forgiveness, stereotypes, sex, drugs and rock-n-roll! "It's a nonstop journey to the Real." -which is essentially what the main character is in search of. We've got an Outstanding Cast & Band that do an excellent job of bringing such a unique, yet relatable story to light.

What is your role in the play? What have you infused in your character to make it real?

I play a variety of characters in this show. In particular- Edwina, the "fast" Baptist church girl; Marianna- a Dutch "Red-light district worker"; and Sudabey- a tough German filmmaker. I always like to infuse a sense of authenticity to each character regardless of how comical or dramatic they tend to be. My personal opinion is it makes the character more likable and/or believable.

Every experience should be a learning moment, so what have you learned from this production about theater, a musicians life, random events?

One thing I've learned is that some things really ARE possible, even when you think they might not be. Example: This production was originally not supposed to be re-produced outside of the original that was performed on Broadway. Since it is Stew's (the writer) autobiography, it was pre-determined He would be the only one who could pull such a show off. However, Artistic Director of the Pollard Theater- W. Jerome Stevenson, had the guts to ask for rights to produce it here in Guthrie, OK. It was approved (thankfully!) And here we are today-a taste of Broadway for the folks down south! : )

Are you having fun?

 I am Most Definitely having fun!! This is what I love to do and I am in love with this show.

What do you love about the cast and the crew including the director?

The cast has been outstanding since Day 1 of rehearsal. It's one of those situations where it obvious everyone is on the same page and bringing their A-game to the table and nothing less. We all have been in love with the story of Passing Strange and are very grateful to be a part of such a cast/band. The Director, Timothy Stewart, did his homework beforehand and it shows!! He's been a pleasure to work with.

How is Guthrie OK? How is it different from Big D?

Guthrie- Historic, small country-town feel, lots of trees. The people are nice and they don't mind speaking to you. It's got that "everybody knows everybody" kinda feel to it. But it's best to have a car to get where you're going. Dallas- is more citified in comparison and people usually seem more cautious about talking to strangers. Public transportation is easier to access.

Are you a Mavs fan? IF so what is the atmosphere up there? If you are not a fan, are the Okies giving you a hard time anyway?

I'm not an avid sports watcher, but I have missed being around such exciting Mavs energy due to the Pro-Mavs FB posts!! Nope, no hard time from the Okies either. They support the Thunder, but I haven't heard anything bad about the Mavs. Guess I just don't hang around those kinda people, lol!

Ok, your time for shout outs and plugs. Gimme what you got.

Shout-outs: First, to you-for allowing me to share info about Passing Strange. Also Shout out to the entire cast/band of Passing Strange, my friends Cedric Neal, Oscar Contreras, Laterras R. Whitfield, and all other friends and fam who support me!

Passing Strange runs June 10-26 at the Pollard Theatre (www.pollard.org) 

120 W. Harrison Ave, Guthrie, OK 73044

DO NOT MISS THIS SHOW!! IT'S WORTH A ROAD TRIP! : )