Theater Chat

January 17, 2013January 31, 2013 erijams Agatha Christie, Basement Transmissions

By Dan Tingley

I had the pleasure of sitting down and talking with Nick Kikola. I have known Nick for years and have always respected his work. He’s funny and has a razor wit so I wasn’t sure if I would be able to keep control. I was mistaken. He was calm, sincere, honest and yes, very funny.

At the age of 27, Nick has done quite a lot. He studied drama with Paula Barrett and Shawn Clerkin at Gannon University. He proudly places Shawn as his mentor.

“I watched high school plays at Seneca as much as I could. I loved them. I was watching them doing Guys and Dolls when I realized that is what I want to do. I was 12 years old then, when I went to high school, I joined the drama club.”

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST PLAY?

“Guys and Dolls. It’s funny how that worked out.”

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE PLAY?

“Dracula. Easy pick. It was lots of fun. My favorite part was Falstaff. I’ve played him a few times. He’s a fun character.”

WHAT WAS YOUR WORST?

“Moby Dick. I had trouble fitting in. I also prefer comedies over dramas. I love musicals – watching or performing. Of course, I don’t sing very well.”

WHAT CAN WE EXPECT IN THE FUTURE?

“I have a play RACE on January 17th through drama shop. On February 8th at All An Act Theatre I’ll be doing Agatha Christie’s And then there were none.”

ANY DIRECTING?

“I started directing when I was 20 at the director’s circle and it’s rewarding. Yes, in March, I’ll be directing students in Sam Shepard’s True West. I’m scheduled for four in 2013. Two at Gannon and two at All An Act. It will be a fun year.”

THANK YOU VERY MUCH. THIS HAS BEEN FUN. I HAVE ONE MORE QUESTION. DO YOU HAVE YOUR TOILET PAPER OVER OR UNDER?

“Over the top! I’m not a communist.”

This was the first of many chats I hope to have each month. I was lucky my first was Nick Kikola. (not many people will say that) This area has some wonderfully talented actors and I just chatted with one of them. Nick has talent whether on the stage or directing. He also has a good head on his shoulders and a big heart. Watch for Nick this year and I’ll be chatting with another talented actor next month.