When he’s not on the stage, James H. Burke is a sales engineer for a local software company. Previously, he worked in data centers as an operator, an engineer, an architect, and as a manager. As James tells it, “This dovetails from my work experience. I used to work, no kidding, 90 hours per week and did that for about 4 years straight. When I changed to a more reasonable schedule, it was like having and entire extra week … every week! I didn’t know what to do with all the extra time. My daughter wanted to audition for a play at a local community theater, so I took her. The artistic director asked the dads to audition, because there are never enough males in community theater. I thought I’d get a small part, maybe, and have fun being in the play with my daughter. I was offered the lead and was hooked. From that time to this, I’ve had a great time and made many life friends. I meet new, wonderful people in every show.”
Live Arts Theatre is delighted to present James H.Burke in his portrayal of Cain and Japheth in Children of Eden. He is also a storyteller in the show. He was glad to share more about himself through his answers to our probing questions:
Q: Is this your first show with Live Arts? If not, what are some of the other shows you have done with us?
A: I have been in several Live Arts productions. Live Arts is a great place; always very creative and inclusive, which is why I keep coming back. Most recently, I portrayed Jake Laurents/George Bailey in Its A Wonderful Life Radio Play. My first turn with Live Arts wound up being one of my favorite roles ever. I was Charlie Baker in The Foreigner, for which I was fortunate to be awarded Broadway World Atlanta’s Best Actor In A Play (non-professional).
Q: What attracted you to Children of Eden?
A: It’s the story of mankind and the parent/child relationship, which goes all the way back to the Garden of Eden, with Adam, Eve, and our Heavenly Father. Each generation plays it out, and it never changes, never gets old. As much disappointment and anger as there is within the story, there is even more pride in our children’s accomplishments and love of who they are within themselves. There is a lot to learn in this story, but also a lot to simply sit back and enjoy. Just like real life, it’s a wild ride, so buckle up!
Q: What is your dream musical role?
A: Probably Adam Pontipee from Seven Brides For Seven Brothers … I’m probably not right for the part, but hey, I have the red hair!
Q: Name two fun facts about you.
A: 1. I was awarded a full scholarship from the US Air Force to study Physics. Anyone that knows me understands that was a massive mistake on their part! 2. When I was growing up I fantasized about being a rock and roll demi-god. Who am I kidding? I still do!
Q: What can audiences look forward to with Children of Eden and why should they come see it?
A: Audiences can look forward to great music, a talented cast, but most importantly, the people you don’t see … the ones behind the scenes, the director, the artistic director, the musical director, the fight choreographer, the sound and lighting engineers, the set designers … all of these people just make all of us on stage look and sound amazing. They really know their stuff and without that, this would be only a decent show. With that, and we DO have that, the show is Amazing!
Q: How does your character compare to you?
A: There’s a little bit of Cain in all of us, don’t you think? Cain is curious, just like his mama. He’s not a bad person, just passionate. It’s that passion which becomes his downfall. I hope Cain was ultimately given grace, as I’ve really gotten to know him during this production and I’m sympathetic to his situation.