BEHIND THE SCENES of SURFER GIRL by Leslye Headland with Karen Eilbacher
This week Karen took her turn as the star of SURFER GIRL and gave us her interpretation of Leslye Headland’s one-woman show
By featuring eight actresses under the direction of four different directors across its 16 performances, we aim to give each performance of SURFER GIRL a unique interpretation of the same sin, sloth. No matter what social class, geopolitical demographic, race or sexual preference, by contrasting our differences and highlighting our similarities, the company hopes this production will serve to emphasize how the human struggle is ultimately the same regardless of these differences, and how we as humans are all susceptible to the same “sins.”
What does the idea of ‘sloth’ as a sin mean to you?
Hanging back; Watching shit go by.
Trying…but, not really.
How do you think your character in the play is guilty of this sin?
She involves herself passively in action. Runs away when things don’t go “her way”. Aches to return to the scene of the crime. And yet never takes her time to truly ask why.
…and, the cycle repeats.
How has sloth played a role in your life / what do you identify with the most with this character?
The part of her childhood and involvement with her parents that she is avoiding, running away from, wishing she could go back to so she can help herself in unlocking the code to her present future; but it all stacks up to be just too pain-full.
Have you ever had to stay on someone else’s couch?
Had to? Yes: The whole of New York City with all its beautiful boroughs is somehow wider than we think when fun and “drunkness” take you over.
What is your favorite line of the show?
There’s something really disingenuous about saying goodnight to someone.
May 1st and 2nd
Directed by Jen Wineman
Performed by Amy Northup
The New York Premiere of SURFER GIRL is presented by Animus Theatre Company in association with The Dirty Blondes.
Every Tuesday & Wednesday
April 10 — May 30
The Foley Gallery
59 Orchard Street
New York, New York 10002
For tickets and more information visit thedirtyblondes.org
