Lanette Gutman plays the Nurse in OTE Shakespeare in the Hills’ Romeo and Juliet returning to the Laguna Hills Community Center this Friday, August 11 for it’s final weekend.
What’s challenging about bringing this script to life?
The Stairs….And my first attempt at outdoor theater. It really is a different animal. And the Stairs, plus Shakespeare is new to me too, so getting the iambic pentameter just right has been a challenge for me. And the Stairs.
How is this production bringing something new to this story?
Our time in history. Alta California, and the Spanish feel, flavors the story with a bit of fire in my opinion.
What’s going to surprise people about this show?
The sword fights are very realistic, with metal swords and great acting. They are very exciting!
Call someone out by name: who must come see this production?
All my PCOM church friends, MTV theatre friends and GOGALS…You know who you are! Come see!
How is this character like you?
The Nurse is a very strong character in the story. She is a mother figure and confidant to Juliet. She is also a go-between with Juliet, Romeo and with the Friar. She really does love Juliet and has her best interests at heart.
How is this character different from you?
I am different in that I think I would have implored more of Juliet’s mother into the conversation, and not excluded her so much.
What do you love about this character?
I love how bold she is. She is gentle and loving yet playful with Juliet, and then the next moment hold her own against the bully Mercutio and violent Capulet.
What do you hate about this character?
She was not able to see through the Friar’s attempt to drug Juliet to sleep. This haunts her.
What’s the biggest challenge about taking on this role?
The language of Shakespeare has been tough. Being a 6th grade reading and language arts teacher… the grammar has been tricky.
Besides yourself, what celebrity would you like to see tackle this character?
I would have loved to see Robin Williams do it. Also Maggie Smith would be awesome.
Without giving anything away, what’s your favorite line of dialogue?
‘I pray you senor, what saucy merchant was this that was so full of her ropery?’
If you could play any other character in this show, who would it be?
I love playing pants parts. So Tybalt or Mercutio would’ve been nice in younger years.
When did you first perform?
I did musicals in High School and in College. But my degree is in vocal performance.
Besides this one, what’s your favorite stage show?
To perform? Toss up between Nunsense and Annie! To watch, a toss up between Oklahoma!, and West Side Story ( alas…. those soprano roles)
What’s your perfect Sunday afternoon look like?
Lunch and a movie with my son David
What do you do when you’re not doing theatre?
When time??? Teach elementary school and spend time with family.
If you had a magic wand, what show would you do next?
I’d love to do Mama Mia!
What’s the last thing you do before you step out on stage?
When possible, I like to sit quietly alone in the dark, in the wings…getting into character… say a little prayer…and go!
Lanette Gutman is very excited to play the Nurse in this beautiful production of Romeo & Juliet. This is her first time in not only Shakespeare, but in doing a play. Most of her time is with Musicals playing character roles, such as Marmee in Little Women, Miss Hannigan in Annie!, Mother Superior in Nunsense and Dolly Levi in Hello Dolly! Thank you Aurora Culver and On the Edge Productions for this wonderful opportunity. Enjoy the show!
SHOW INFORMATION:
This summer’s Shakespeare in the Hills production transports the well-loved story of Romeo and Juliet to 1845 and the conflicted world of Alta California. With sword fights, immersive staging, and a blend of comedy and tragedy, this production for all ages is not to be missed!
Bring a blanket or your lawn chair, bring your meal and make it a picnic event for Shakespeare in the Hills’ outdoor performance presented by On The Edge Theatre Productions (www.otetheatre.com). All performances are held at the Laguna Hills Community Center & Sports Complex’s Gazebo and Town Green.
Performances @ 7pm, July 28th & 29th; August 4th & 5th, 11th & 12th. Tickets $10
Age 12 and under free. All participants of age 12 and under must be accompanied by a paying adult. Tickets are sold (cash only) on the day of the show. You may also purchase your ticket early online (class registration). No refunds or transfers for this event. Snacks and refreshments will be available for purchase at this family event. Call 949-707-2680 for more information.
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