Sophie Golay as Rosemary Pilkington
Throughout her years, Sophie Golay (’19) has been in countless theatrical productions. To each role she brings both her fresh interpretations, which allows each show to befittingly stray from its original intent, and her sharp technique that makes any role she portrays personal and distinctive. The most recent role she’s undergone is the lead character of Rosemary Pilkington in Samo’s upcoming musical, “How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying.”Only a junior, Golay has meticulously paved her way on stage, taking ownership of each role she plays. Golay spoke with us to describe her preparations and rehearsal process for the show and the influences she’s drawn upon in crafting her interpretation. “Whenever I get cast, I research the time period to see how the character would act in the time period,” Golay said. “I always read the material at least two times through when I first get it and find a way to watch it online” She also shared that her goal is to reveal something about the character you might not have gotten in another production’s interpretation. Her upcoming role is no different from any other she’s played, she’s had to imagine and analyze her character beyond the time period and dialogue, allowing her apposite naivety to shine. “I find the little quirks that makes a character an individual, using their upbringing to shape them,” Golay said. Other sources the actress has to build her character are Theatre Director Kate Barraza and her costars. She had shared the importance of working to the vision of others. “We had character workshops with Ms. Barraza where we would delve into the character, how they interact with others, and their main goals. Knowing how each character feels about the other can help you morph into your character,” Golay said.Golay assembles each character in her own conscientious acting technique, as to not overdo her character or stray too far from who the character is. Being a character unlike any she’s played, she’s had to amplify her technique. “Playing a role that is very dependent on the idea of being the perfect wife was an amazing challenge for me. I've never played a part like this so it's been crazy fun for me expand my horizons and become a whole new person on stage,” Golay said. “This show shows how our society has changed a lot in ways of sexism. Our world is so different now in ways of treating women. Everyone should see the show because you won't leave without laughing.”