Actor David Vahedi is excited to be returning to the LAT stage in ReEntry. You may remember David as Max in the recent LAT production of Cabaret this past summer. We caught up with David, who also works with graphic design in his nonexistent spare time, to find out about what it’s like to be David and the upcoming show.
A play like ReEntry is quite a departure from a musical like Cabaret. Are you noticing any key differences as to your approach to this show?
I just got finished playing Max in You will see some really touching moments that will make you feel deeply. You will also find yourself in one of these characters shoes. It will make you see the world a bit differently., which was fun. This is a much more challenging role for me. I hardly had much to do in Cabaret, but I’m noticing so much more to do here.
You play many different characters in this one. Are you using any specific approach to making each one of those characters unique?
I’ve read over each of their stories multiple times to pick up their individual quirks. Pete seems to be a lot more serious in tone where as John seems like the kind of guy you’d want to share a beer with.
So then how do you relate to your characters or the show in general?
Other than the characters’ love for profanity, they have a knack for finding humor in even the most serious of situations. No matter how stressful their point of view may seem, there’s still always something delightful that can be cherished. They also thoroughly enjoy having a platform to which they can speak their mind. Letting out their emotions verbally seems therapeutic for them and I can empathize with that.
What excites you the most about the show?
The general passion behind all the stories. From our first read through, everything we were portraying felt so powerful.
If you could tell our readers one thing about ReEntry, what would it be?
It’s very different than any other play that I’ve read or seen. I think each audience member will remember it differently as well. Some might laugh, some might cry, but you’ll be sure to feel something by the end.
You can catch David and the rest of the talented cast as they present the crucial stories that are ReEntry October 16-31. Tickets are now on sale, so get yours today.