Spotlight On...Misha Braun

Name: Misha Braun

Hometown: Born in Amsterdam. Raised in NYC

Education: The Neighborhood Playhouse (Jim Brill)

Select Credits: Bryan and Kim (Bryan, Teatro SEA, NYC Fringe Festival Festival 2013), Every time I Fall Back (Chris (Winner of best play in the Strawberry Play Festival 2013), Henry IV part 1 (Hotspur, American Theater of Actors), Late Night Snack, Self Examination (HB Playwrights Theater)

Why theater?: I guess because I'm fortunate enough to be friends with a Playwright! Adam Delia, who wrote and directed Bryan and Kim, and I have been working together since we started reading the one act version of this play in his playwriting class at HB. Since then we have performed this piece at various festivals, including the Strawberry One Act Festival where it won best play in 2011. It is now a full length play and is better than ever!

Tell us about Bryan and Kim: When Bryan helps Kim confront a traumatic event from her past, their relationship faces unforeseen challenges. As the ghost of Kim’s past threatens their future, Bryan finds himself inside a present he never could have predicted.

What is it like being a part of Bryan and Kim?: It's been a wild ride! Definitely the hardest material I have ever worked with. Adam Delia, Laurel Casillo and I have all become good friends through this process. It is a piece we all hold very close to our hearts.The subject is emotionally draining, the transitions are tough, going from present to flashback's with out a moment of preparation. We have tried to keep the piece moving to keep audiences at the edge of their seat. After the 50 minutes roller coaster, everyone can let out a collective breath of relief. It's intense!

What kind of theater speaks to you? What or who inspires you as an artist?: Well i love all types of theater really, from Shakespeare to Guirgis. I come from a ballet background so the classic themes and language of Shakespeare still move me deeply. I also grew up in NYC and really get the street talk of Guirgis. I have been using a monologue from The Little Flower of East Orange for years now, something about that mans struggle speaks to me.

Any roles you’re dying to play?: Oh, like every other male actor, i would love a chance to play Hamlet, and of course Stanley Kowalski.

What’s your favorite show tune?: Not a show tune guy. Although, maybe if I was exposed to musical theater more often I would have one!

If you could work with anyone you’ve yet to work with, who would it be?: Hmmm. That's tough. It changes every day! Love, love, love, Derek Cianfrance. I feel like he is a actors director and very much believes in the collaborative relationship between actor and director. I guess you could say the same about Woody Allen, I would jump on that in a heartbeat. As far as theater directors. i would love to work on a David Rabe play, I really enjoy the language and symbolism in his plays.

What show have you recommended to your friends?: uhh.... Bryan and Kim...duh! 

What’s your biggest guilty pleasure?: Sometimes I am stuck watching the Kardashians when my girlfriend has the remote. I find myself in awe of their lavish lives in contrast with their lack of depth.  

What’s up next?: Some R & R and money making! It's been an arduous process getting this play on its feet. Call me a week after we close though, I am sure I'll be anxiously finding my next gig!

For more on Misha, visit http://mishabraun.com/