BWW Blog: Dalton Allison - An Interview with Sophie Verhalen

As Assistant Director of The Fantastic Mr. Fox, I have gotten to know several of the young performers that are participating in the production. I sat down with Sophie Verhalen, who plays Mr. Fox.

How long have you been acting at The Growing Stage?

I have been acting at The Growing Stage since I was 8 years old, in fourth grade. My first show was "The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus"

Do you participate in your local high school shows?

Yes! Last year I helped with the fall drama, "Dracula" and was part of the ensemble in "Mary Poppins." This year I played the role of Olive in "The Odd Couple" and I hope to be a part of this years musical "Seussical" at Kittatinny Regional High School.

How do High School plays and plays at The Growing Stage differ in experience?

My school has a very rigorous theatre program so it is surprising how similar they are. However, I find that shows at The Growing Stage are much more professional and are much more of a commitment. The rehearsal process is also much shorter than in high school, for instance, for "Fantastic Mr. Fox" we began rehearsing at the beginning of January and are putting on our first show on January 26. In high school however, we are beginning rehearsals for our musical at the beginning of February and the show will be at the end of April.

What is the best part about playing Mr. Fox?

Well, this is my first lead role at TGS and it has been amazing. The best part has to be how much fun I get to have with it. I find that Mr. Fox is a very versatile character which gives me so many opportunities to make him my own. His common theme throughout the show is that he is a dramatic story-teller that longs the spotlight, which doesn't feel to far off from my own personality. His numerous monologues give me the opportunity to truly demonstrate all of his characteristics and mannerisms. I hope that I have brought the role to its full potential.

What is the best experience you've had during the rehearsal and production process?

This is the first show I have been apart of at TGS that I am one of the oldest members. It has been very different than any of my other shows, in a good way. I enjoy having lots of responsibilities and being a reliable source. It is very fulfilling to hopefully act as a role model to all of the children in the show. It doesn't feel that long ago when I was in their shoes looking up to the leads and I hope they feel the same way about me as I did back then.

What is it like working under a first time director (the talented Becky Nitka)?

I love it. When I heard that Becky was directing this show it gave me the final push to audition. I know Becky pretty well from shows we have done together in the past and there was not a single doubt in my mind that this show would be spectacular. The only difference that I find is that she is seemingly nicer than other directors I have worked with. She has done a great job coming up with creative ideas for this show.

The Fantastic Mr. Fox opens on January 26th, and runs through the 29th. It is an all-youth production at The Growing Stage, The Children's Theatre of New Jersey in Netcong. For more information, visit http://www.growingstage.com/.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of The Growing Stage