INTERVIEW: Tom Holcomb explores the work of Brian Friel (and Chekhov, too)
Photo: Aristocrats at the Irish Repertory Theatre stars, from left, Roger Dominic Casey and Tom Holcomb. Photo courtesy of Jeremy Daniel / Provided by Print Shop PR with permission.
The Irish Repertory Theatre in New York City continues its season-long exploration of the work of Brian Friel, the acclaimed Irish playwright who left the literary world with so many interesting, thought-provoking dramas and comedies. They started the celebration of the writer’s life with a fall revival of Translations, and now co-artistic director Charlotte Moore helms a new production of Aristocrats.
In the show, the plot mirrors the goings-on of a Chekhov piece, with three sisters and their brother coming home to attend a wedding, only to find that a funeral will also happen. The setting is the decaying home of District Justice O’Donnell in County Donegal, Ireland, where something left unsaid haunts the proceedings, according to press notes.
Tom Holcomb plays that one brother in the family. His name is Casimir, and he’s described as “eccentric.” To better understand this pivotal character, Hollywood Soapbox exchanged emails with Holcomb. The actor is best known for his off-Broadway turns in Meet Me in St. Louis, London Assurance and It’s a Wonderful Life, all for the Irish Rep. Questions and answers have been slightly edited for style.
What do you appreciate about Brian Friel’s dialogue and words?
Friel is so specific and so connected to his characters and the way they use language. In the case of Casimir, he gives so many particular verbal tics and phrases that tell you what’s going on under the surface. Friel puts it all on the page for the actor to glean from and explore.
Were you familiar with Aristocrats before joining this production?
I wasn’t familiar with Aristocrats before I auditioned. I knew a few of Friel’s other plays, but this one was a gorgeous surprise for me. I fell in love with the play and the role immediately.
Do you see the influences of Chekhov in the piece?
There are certainly many influences from Chekhov — the family dynamic, the exploration of class and loneliness, and the complexities of identity and how we attempt make meaning out of life.
How do you see this brother character of Casimir?
I think Casimir is quite ahead of his time. He seems lost in the past and certainly can be, but he has also managed to overcome immense trauma and build a life that helps him as he says, “Experience some happiness. And perhaps give a measure of happiness too.” I think he is haunted by this house and struggles to escape those ghosts, but his self-awareness and kindness is quite inspiring. In this play and character, Friel seems to be exploring issues of mental health that we only now are starting to understand.
Are you familiar with County Donegal? Is being authentic to this place important to you?
I’ve never made it as far west in Ireland as Donegal, but I read much about it in preparation. I think it’s very important to be authentic but also acknowledge that the siblings in the play have always been out of place in their surroundings because of their upbringing, boarding school education and family.
How is Charlotte Moore as a director?
I have been lucky enough to work with Charlotte many times. I am always awed by her ability to balance a steady guiding hand with freedom to allow the actors to explore and discover for themselves. She loves the work, and it shows in her brilliance and passion.
By John Soltes / Publisher / John@HollywoodSoapbox.com
Aristocrats, featuring Tom Holcomb, continues through Sunday, March 3 at the Irish Repertory Theatre in Manhattan. Click here for more information and tickets.
