John Bates is the co-founder and Executive Producer of Final Show Films, an internet based content production company. He also works in IT (internet technology). He has been performing on stage for the past 13 years, since 2003, and on screen and in voiceovers since 2009. John plays a storyteller and Shem in Children of Eden. He is also the fight choreographer for the show.
John was gracious enough to answer a few questions for us. Enjoy!
Q: Is this your first show with Live Arts?
A: Yes. (This is his first show with Live Arts.)
Q: What attracted you to Children of Eden?
A: The music. (He likes the music.)
Q: What is your dream musical role?
A: Frank Abignale Jr. In Catch Me if you Can, Dan in Next to Normal, and either Leo or Max in The Producers.
Q: Name two fun facts about you.
A: 1. I’m expecting my first child, a boy, in August, and 2. I have an eclectic taste in music.
Q: How does your character compare to you?
Shem is very orderly and no-nonsense; I’m the exact opposite, all about that nonsense and chaos.
Q: While Children of Eden is a Biblical show, based on the book of Genesis, It has a universal and timeless message. What does this mean to you?
A: To me, Children of Eden is a story about family, written from the perspective of a father coping with the fact that his children are growing up and leaving. It cycles through the various stages of life, but in my mind it focuses on that very specific transition of childhood to adulthood, and all the emotions that come with it.
You can catch John and the rest of the talented cast of Children of Eden through July 31. Ticket information is available here.