Tiffanie Battram plays “Florinda”, one of Cinderella’s wicked stepsisters in OTE’s production of INTO THE WOODS opening Friday, February 26.
Photo by Sean Netherlain Photography
What’s challenging about bringing this script to life?
The most challenging aspect of Into The Woods is the music. Everything happens so fast, you really have to pay attention to cues and beats, and counts and everyone else; while also staying in character, not missing your entrance or lines and maintaining that whimsy and mysterious fairytale vibe. It’s all a tad bit overwhelming, but the good kind. That’s what makes Into The Woods such a captivating and fun performance to partake in and watch.
What’s going to surprise people about this show?
Always be on your toes, or in this case, the edge of your seat. You never know what you’ll encounter in the woods.
Call someone out by name: who must come see this production?
Dave Platt. Because I know how much you love theatre!
How is this character like you? Different?
Well Florinda and I are a lot alike. I have had 22 years of practice for this role, thanks to my little brother. I was the wicked big sister. I used to make him wear my old tattered dresses and do my chores. So picking up this role was no problem, it was destiny really.
What do you love about this character?
I just love the Stepsisters. They are hilarious. Over the top, obnoxious, soul sucking humans; what’s not to love?
What do you hate about this character?
Nothing. Florinda is fabulous!
What’s the biggest challenge about taking on this role?
The biggest challenge has been working on my evil stepsister cackle, and not bursting into absurd fits of laugher. HA HA HA!!
Besides yourself, what celebrity would you like to see tackle this character?
I would love to see Amy Poehler as one of the Stepsisters. Primarily because she has an endless supply of disgusted facial expressions, which is very crucial to this role.
Without giving anything away, what’s your favorite line of dialogue?
Never wear mauve to a ball. It’s truly the best advice I’ve ever given.
If you could play any other character in this show, who would it be?
I would love to play the Witch, because I have really mastered that evil cackle.
When did you first perform?
Besides elementary school this is my first big show! I am so excited to be a part of On The Edge’s production of Into The Woods. Theatre has always been a passion of mine and I am so happy to see my dreams becoming a reality! This will definitely not be the last you see of me.
Besides this one, what’s your favorite stage show?
I am a huge fan of Phantom Of The Opera.
When you have a five-minute break during rehearsal, what do you spend that time doing?
Usually I am going to the bathroom. Unfortunately, I have what feels like the worlds smallest bladder, sorry TMI, but it’s the truth!
What do you do when you’re not doing theatre?
Most likely annoying my brother and making him listen to songs I’m working on, and characters I’m testing out. He secretly loves it.
If you had a magic wand, what show would you do next?
The Last Five Years, I just love the contemporary music stylings of Jason Robert Brown.
What’s the last thing you do before you step out on stage?
I am assuming this is what I will do, since this is my first major time performing. I can imagine I will do a little jig to shake out all the last minute nerves, then I smile, take in a deep breath and then, it’s ShowTime!
Tiffanie Battram (Florinda) Tiffanie is pleased to be in her first production with On The Edge. This experience has been one she will always remember and cherish. Always having had a passion for the arts she is enthusiastic about performing and is excited for the journey ahead. This will not be the last you see of her.
SHOW INFORMATION:
Into the Woods, by Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine has the following performances: February 26th at 7 p.m.; February 27th at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; March 4th at 7 p.m.; March 5th at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and March 6th at 2 p.m.
Tickets: $15 General admission
*Parental Guidance recommended for children 13 and under due to adult themes.*
Children 12 and under free with paying adult.
To reserve your seats, email us at ajculver@otetheatre.com or call (949)689-3922.
Tickets are available for purchase online at the Laguna Hills Community Center (class registration), or by purchasing them (Cash only) at the door on performance days. Personal checks and credit cards will not be accepted for ticket purchases at the door.
Director: Aurora Culver
Assistant Director: Josefine Damgaard
Music Director: Jared Pugh
Stage Manager: Michelle Lane
Featuring the talents of Marc Montminy, Claire Perry, Maggie Goodman, Anthony Kairouz, Rebecca Rubino, Dawn Doherty, Chris Hunter, Chris Diem, Teri Griffin,
Roger Sloan, Megan Demarchi, Nancy Higley, Tiffanie Battram, Katie Diem, Matt Acuña, Jadee Sumner, Jim Pack, and Kaleigh Krieger.
The City of Laguna Hills partners with On the Edge Theatre Productions to bring live theatrical performances to the Laguna Hills Community Center.
For more information please visit our website.