How did you first get involved in the arts?
I was an altar boy when Mass was said in Latin. I always found that ritual very theatrical. Being on the altar was like being on stage. Besides, my family had showbiz aspirations. My grandfather was sometimes a producer and stage manager with professional ambitions. My mother was a singer who performed in amateur theatricals, and I'd an uncle who was known as Ireland's Al Jolson.
What is your latest project?
with the assistance of Stephanie Lane. We hope it's the start of something exciting. We're very Milfordcentric. Also later in the summer I'll be playing Macduff in Elm Shakespeare's production of Macbeth in Edgerton Park, New Haven.
Interestingly, Jim Andreassi, who is the artistic director of Elm Shakespeare and a brilliant actor who will be playing the Scottish king, just moved to Milford. We're both having cold sweats about the fight at the end of the play.
The part of the porter will be played by 88-year-old theater legend Alvin Epstein, co- founder of Yale Rep and American Repertory Theatre.
What advice do you wish you'd received when you first got started?
I wish I'd been encouraged to work on my singing ability.
Who are some local artists people should check out?
. Far and away the best kept secret in Milford and an important part, especially this time of year when the windows are open, of the life of downtown Milford.
