Deanna Strasse now in the Sunset Spotlight. Deanna returns to the Sunset stage in the role of Alice in YOU CAN’T TAKE IT WITH YOU.
- When did you first become involved at Sunset Playhouse and what areas have you been involved with here at the Playhouse?
The first Sunset show I did was “STAGE DOOR” back in 2012. It was an amazing experience because I was fresh out of college and knew practically no one, but nearly every woman in the Wisconsin community theatre area was in that show (it had a large female cast!) I met so many talented and wonderful people and many of my theatre connections start with that show and Sunset.
- If you are working on a Sunset show right now, what is your role?
I’m in “YOU CAN’T TAKE IT WITH YOU” now and I’m playing Alice.
- If an actor, what has been your favorite role to date and what is your dream role?
“THE NERD” (here at Sunset in 2015) will always have a special place in my heart. I loved that cast and it was the first time I worked with Brian, whose work I love. My two cohorts in the show were Zach Zembrowski and Phil Stepanski, and, as part of my costume, I was given a large golden locket to wear. So, of course, I had to put a picture of both Zach and Phil in the locket. The costumer told me I could keep it after the and it’s very special to me. The three of us just really clicked and I consider both of them to be very close friends.
As for dream roles, I’m a big fan of Sara Ruhl and would love to do something of hers in the not too distant future!
- What do you enjoy most about the Sunset?
Sunset really feels like the community’s theatre. I feel as though the volunteers are really, truly appreciated and everyone wants to be here. The atmosphere here is just friendly and welcoming on top of the some of the great shows Sunset produces. (And O.D.’s is right down the street) 😉
- When not at Sunset, how do you spend your time?
By day, I’m a barista and full time mom of three rats (two of whom you see in YOU CAN’T TAKE IT WITH YOU!) . (Yes, rats. Please, ask me about them! They don’t bite or live in the sewer or eat garbage. They are really the perfect pet.) I’m also an aspiring playwright; I’ve had the privilege of seeing some of my shows (one-acts or full lengths) produced through companies like The Village Playhouse, Macha Monkey Productions (in Seattle), St Croix Festival Theatre, and more.
- What is your favorite color/food/movie/TV show/book/musical or play?
My favorite color is yellow and my favorite Donna Daniels quote is, “LUST, Mr. Kirby!”
Photo courtesy of Cilento Photography