Spotlight On...Julia Piker

Name: Julia Piker

Hometown: Brooklyn, NY

Education: UMASS Amherst/ Fiorello H. Laguardia H.S.

Most Recent Credits: Sophie in Connie Congdon's Casanova, Directed by Brianna Sloane
   
Why theater?: There is no better way to express or make meaning of the way humans exist and interact with one another. Watching theater gives you a glimpse into the psychology of your own life. Also, theater is a forward moving art- it is constantly changing and evolving. There is nothing that I want to be a part of more than theater.

Tell us about The Brink of Us: The Brink of Us is a show that transcends the confines of a typical living room drama. It truly changes what we think about contemporary drama and comedy for that matter. Simply put, this play is weird! It captures realism in a very honest way, while still casting this kind of mysterious cloud of "Could this be real? Can humans really act this way? Is this a situation that could actually happen?” For me, I learn from the characters each time I re-read this play. Delaney Britt Brewer brilliantly captures the essence of every character in her writing. She gives an ensemble quality to her play while still individualizing every character.

What is it like being a part of The Deer Players?: We love each other. We've known each other for years. Most us have done plays together in college, so we have an idea of how well we work together. It’s truly a fun time for all of us. Our director Kara-Lynn always encouraged us to create what we think we can't. Its never "We can't" but always "We can."

What kind of theater speaks to you? What or who inspires you as an artist?: I’ve always loved contemporary drama and comedy. I'm a very big empathizer. I love to see situations and emotions that mimic my own life. Seeing Marin Mazzie in Next to Normal was definitely an inspirational experience for me. I remember the whole time I sat there with my jaw dropped wondering where she got the energy to play that kind of depression every night.

Any roles you’re dying to play?: Fantine in Les Miserables, a secret childhood dream.

What’s your favorite show tune?: “The I Love You Song” from The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

If you could work with anyone you’ve yet to work with, who would it be?: Tom Kitt, Cate Blanchett, Ian McKellan, and Patti Lupone, just to name a few.

Who would play you in a movie about yourself and what would it be called?: Sandra Bullock in "What the Hell am I Doing". But if there really was a movie about me, wouldn't I play myself? Because I'm better at being me than anyone else I know. Unless Meryl Streep wanted to play me, which would definitely be a better performance.

What show have you recommended to your friends?: I'm recommending everyone to go see Violet on Broadway with Sutton Foster. My dear friend Ilana Ransom Toeplitz is making her Assistant Directorial debut. I love when my friends inspire me!

What’s the most played song on your iTunes?: “Love of My Life”- Queen… Hmm I did not expect that! I've been a huge Queen fan since I was a baby listening to "Made in Heaven." I've always loved Freddie Mercury as an artist, vocalist and just all out amazing performer.

What’s your biggest guilty pleasure?: Chocolate and Burgers. Not together, but maybe someday?

What’s up next?: Currently my partner in crime Peter Staley (Co-Producer, Brink of Us) and I are working under the name PeterPiker Productions. We are writing a musical that we hope to share with the world by early 2015!