Arts-Louisville.com: 12 Questions for an Actor: Eric Welch

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Eric Welch is proud to finally be producing the play Circus Circus at The Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts. This play is very close to Eric, and it means a lot to him to premiere it here in his native city. His latest projects are: the film Many Monsters of Sadness which premiered in the Nashville Film Festival, Finnigan Festival #5, and his latest photo shoot with Christopher Caswell. Whenever Eric has free time, he loves to volunteer at Down Syndrome of Louisville and can’t wait to return to volunteer after the show is over. If he isn’t working on a project or volunteering, then you will find him in the gym. This is his biggest adventure to date, producing and acting in a play he co-wrote with Brian Walker, Circus Circus. Besides himself, he is very proud to have a cast that includes Benjamin Wood, Robert Hatfield, Kayla Gill, Corey Long, Jeremy Gutierrez, Christina Biller, Deanna Gillispie, Taylor Olivia Roebuck and Andy Epstein. It is directed by George Bailey.

1. How long have you been an actor?

I was in my first production when I was 21 years old, but I have always loved to entertain. I really didn’t get serious until after attending New York Film Academy in LA when I was 24 years old. After that I knew this was my true passion.

2. What inspires you?

Creating a life on stage or film that triggers an emotional response from the audience is what I love to see.

3. What was the first play where you felt, “I am an actor”?

I’m not sure if it was a play or the training I was doing when I was in LA. I was working with Anthony Montes who studied under Sanford Meisner. Being able to learn how to connect to myself and trust my feelings really led me to feel, “I am an actor.”

4. What has been your favorite role?

That’s tough, because I’ve enjoyed them all. I think I would have to say “Dennis” from Dirty Sexy Derby Play by Brian Walker. For one, Brian got me up onstage and following what I love. Second, “Dennis” is a fun guy!

5. What is your least favorite role?

I haven’t had a lot of roles yet, so I can’t say I have a least favorite. I’ve learned something from every one.

6. What is your dream role?

My dream role would be a character that I am able to create a truthful life to, while working with an amazing cast. There is not one specific role I want.

7. What is the best direction you have ever been given?

"Get out your head and listen." That’s a tough one for me sometimes, because I’m pretty hard on myself. Another one I liked was, "Stop acting; acting is being fake. Live and be truthful in the moment." That’s something I really like, too, because you have to feel what you are portraying. If not, you’re just going through the motions.

8. What is the worst?

The worst direction for me is not letting an actor try things.

9. Who is your favorite playwright?

My buddy Brian Walker!

10. What makes the local theatre scene so strong?

The community and their love for the theatre. We here in Louisville have so many talented people who love what they do. That shines through in the work that is presented here. I am very grateful to be involved with the community theatre scene. I learn so much from everyone.

11. What are the weaknesses?

Sometimes that tightness of the theatre scene makes it hard for new actors to get involved. But I believe that is changing drastically with the growing auditions being held around here.

12. If you couldn’t be an actor, what would be your choice as a profession?

A vagabond!