Attention, Gael Nation! In one week, the Iona Players will be presenting “The Wizard Of Oz” to locals, parents, students, and faculty alike (remember that if you are among the latter two groups, tickets are free)! Though most of you are likely as hyped as I am, I figured that an in-depth interview from actor Tyler Gil would further add to the excitement!
Jake Lhotan (JL): Describe your role in the play. Have you found anything challenging about this role?
Tyler Gil (TG): I’m in the Ensemble. I play a Snowman, a Winky. The challenging aspect is getting through rehearsal, which can be long.
JL: Speaking of which, what was rehearsal like? Were there any funny or memorable moments during practice?
TG: Rehearsal is long. There was one instance during which the Snowmen were up and I was in the audience. Jared said to me “Tyler, weren’t you called?”. I didn’t realize he was called a tenor. Sarah jokingly said to me “You’re fired.” It was a great laugh.
JL: What has been your experience with The Wizard Of Oz prior to acting in the play? Has being a part of the production changed it for you? Is there a part of the story that is your favorite?
TG: My favorite part is when Dorothy meets the Scarecrow and others, mainly because Dorothy sees them as her family. I appreciate how Scarecrow is positive and Tinman is analogous, as he says he wishes he had a Heart. Prior to acting, I loved the movie as a child and have seen the original several times, always wanting to enact it on stage. I always gravitated towards the themes of friendship present within the play as he is being a part of the realization of said play.
JL: If you could play a different character, who would it be and why?
TG: Scarecrow. He’s the silliest and most positive. With that in mind, he is also a very strong leader.
JL: Have you learned anything about yourself through The Wizard Of Oz? Has this experience made you want to further your experience in theater?
TG: This play has made me want to be a better person, especially with all of the evil sadly present in our world now.
JL: How does it feel to perform in front of a live audience?
TG: Amazing. When we begin the show, the fun aspects overcome the nerves. The Wizard Of Oz has allowed for his creativity to come through.
JL: Discuss your other commitments on campus.
TG: Absolutely! I am a part of Iona Singers, a YoungLife leader, Events Coordinator of Gaels Activities Board (also known as GAB), WIUR Social Media Chair (while also having a podcast of his own) a member of the National Society of Leadership And Success (NSLS for short), and a CAP Peer mentor.
JL: Anything else to add?
TG: Thank you for having me, Jake, and I encourage everyone to show up to the Murphy auditorium next weekend!