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Kansas City Actors Theatre Presents ‘Glengarry Glen Ross’ |
The Kansas City Actors Theatre will present the biting satire of David Mamet’s “Glengarry Glen Ross” this August. The play focuses on a group of real estate salesmen, trying to survive changes in the corporate structure. The men either have to make sales or find themselves out on the street. The Kansas City Actors Theatre, known for its artist-led, artist-driven ensemble, offers up plays that the core artistic team enjoys, whether the plays are classics or modern shows ready to become classics. Actor John Rensenhouse will direct and play a small part in “Glengarry Glen Ross.” He is proud to offer actor Victor Raider-Wexler a role as Wexler makes his Kansas City debut. Wexler spent many years in New York as a theater actor and then several years as a television actor in Hollywood. He had recurring roles on “Seinfeld,” “Everybody Loves Raymond,” and “The King of Queens.” He also led the AMC series “The Lot” about the scandals of 1938 Hollywood. “It has been a full career,” Wexler says. Wexler says Kansas City is a lot closer culturally to Toledo than Hollywood and New York. “Being here, people have deeper conversations and deeper interest in each other,” he says. Some of that interest will translate to his role as Shelley Levene, the former heavyweight salesman who has lost a step or two. “Shelley was once top dog, but he has lost his chops. It’s an honor to play the role.” As of this interview, the cast had not started rehearsal. “Theoretically, I have to like Shelley. There have been a couple times when I didn’t like the character and I couldn’t find the heart of the role. With the villain roles, I still find their heart, motivation or their humor. You have to find that as an actor.” Rensenhouse says he likes being part of a group of theater professionals. Usually the group tackles three plays per summer, but the economy has forced a reduction this year. “We have not tackled Mamet before so we are all excited. Plus there is great name recognition with this play and with Mamet. Perhaps the play is also an uncanny choice considering the times, but there is the humanity of Mamet. The relationship among these men is really just part of the human experience.” The other actors are Brian Paulette, David Fritts, Stuart Rider, Scott Cordes and Phil Fiorini. Showtime: ww.kcactors.org |
