Playwright Anne Marilyn Lucas’ “PARTY?“, running at Theater for the New City through March 31st, is a new comedy that explores the different ways we look at love and marriage across generations. Our Q&A with Alan Ceppos, who plays Felix in the show, gives the scoop on the play, his feelings on show business, and more!
In your own words, tell us about “PARTY?”.
“PARTY?” is a play about how three generations deal with the new norm of relationships in the world that we live in. The interplay between the older and younger generations creates a funny, touching, and relevant view of the world. Humor, sarcasm, and sadness are all combined to make a fascinating play.
What drew you to the role of Felix?
Felix is a multi-dimensional character that is challenging to portray and bring to life. He is, as we all are, human, but so many things in his life have shaped him to be who he is now. That is what makes him a great character.
How do you believe “PARTY?” contributes to the ongoing conversation about marriage and relationships in modern society?
The definition of relationships has changed over the centuries and will continue to change. “PARTY?” brings a 2024 view of where they are today. After each performance, we see that the audience is moved to a discussion about their relationship and how it has evolved. Theater that creates a dialogue is great theater, and “PARTY?” succeeds in that.
How has your perspective on acting and the industry evolved over the years, particularly considering your experiences on both stage and screen?
The older I get, the more passionate I become about acting and the industry. It is truly one of the rare industries that people do for the love of the craft. Working with people who feel that way is stimulating every day. And the older I get, the more intrigued I am about people, which makes me, I hope, a better actor.
How have your life experiences influenced your approach to storytelling and character development in your roles?
I think that every day, in everything that you do, you must have an influence on the way you develop your character. My life has been exciting and interesting, and this can only affect me on a daily basis. My business has made me really understand better that Show Business is a BUSINESS, and I treat it that way.
What do you hope audiences take away from “PARTY?”?
That every person has their own definition of a relationship, and it’s right for each person. Communication and sharing are the best ways to live in a relationship, life, and the world today. And that, trite as it is to say, love and understanding can only make us better human beings and, therefore, live in a better world.
What would you say to someone who thought theatre wasn’t for them?
I would say that they are missing out on a lot, but I would never judge them for that. Soccer is not for me, and I would hope that no one thinks less of me for that.
Are there any other current or upcoming projects you want to highlight?
I am just finishing a film about a very difficult EGOT Broadway and Film Producer that I think will get a lot of play. I am working on another film about making a musical version of “SCREAM” and hoping to see an extended run of “PARTY?”.
See “PARTY?” at Theater for the New City through the end of March! Get your tickets HERE.
