It takes two! With a three-weekend long run, we have two actors cast as Miss Clavel. We’re so delighted to introduce you to Amelia Williams, who plays Miss Clavel in the blue cast of Madeline’s Christmas!
Can you describe your first experience with theater? What sparked your interest?
Amelia: My first experience with theater was when I was 4 years old, I saw the Nutcracker with my mom. I just remember seeing all of the pretty costumes and all the pieces of the play come together. The play really made me want to see more and more so that’s what started my theater experience.
What other roles have you played in Encore’s past productions? What is your most memorable one and why?
Amelia: I have played Ermengarde in A Little Princess and Nyra in The Jungle Book. My most memorable performance would have to be Ermengarde because she was so funny and it was also my first play. I really connected with her by the end of the play I was actually really sad.
In your own words, how would you describe Miss Clavel?
Amelia: Miss Clavel is a very kind and caring teacher. She takes care of her girls as if they were her own daughters and always pushes them to be the best they can be. She always tell them not to be afraid and to try new things.
What do you enjoy most about playing Miss Clavel?
Amelia: I enjoy being able to develop her character more and more. I think Miss Clavel seems very simple on the surface but she is really a complex person. I hope i get to know more about her.
Do you find any fun challenges playing the role, and if so, what are they?
Amelia: A challenge for me was memorizing my lines! Most of them were very proper and didn’t come in any specific order so i really had to memorize them quickly. The songs were also hard at first but after singing them a few times they got much easier.
What are some tips about being in the audience can you share for first- time theater goers coming to see the show?
Amelia: Well when you are in the audience please be quiet, you don’t want to disturb other theater goers and the after can hear you on stage! If you find something funny go ahead and laugh! It’s the actors job to stop speaking if someone is laughing so that everyone can hear the performance. Last but not least, enjoy the show!
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
Amelia: Thank you so much for letting me do this interview! I hope everyone has a merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Photos by Larry McClemons and Aileen Pangan