Sunday, February 24, 2013

FRIGID New York Interview - Talie Melnyk of "Maison des Reves"

By Byrne Harrison
Photo by Greensmith Photography


Name:  Talie Melnyk

Talie Melnyk discovered her passion for the art of solo theatre after taking Gretchen Cryer’s “Writing for Solo Performance.”  Always interested in women’s stories and true crime, “Maison des Reves” was created when Talie discovered information on Alexe Popova in a book on female serial killers.  Favorite New York Theatre includes:  A Memory, A Monologue, A Rant, and A Prayer (3 Crazy Ladies,) Miss Julie (Abingdon Theatre, ) A Man for All Seasons (New Day Repertory,) Dracula (Gallery Players, ) Julius Caesar, The Miser, Pygmalion (Oasis Theatre.) Regional theatre:  The Front Page (Theatre Albany,) Waiting for the Parade, The Hostage (Cidermill Playhouse,) Geeks in Love (Loose Moose Theatre.) Film:  The Re-gift, The Ticket, CrosswordsPictures of Lily.  TV: As the World Turns, All My Children.  Talie is also a certified movement specialist and helps women and special populations reach optimum health and mobility.  Originally from Calgary, Alberta, she currently lives in Brooklyn, NY.

What’s your show about?

Maison des Reves is based on the true story of Alexe Popova who in 1909 Samara, Russia confessed to killing over 300 men, all known for abusing their wives and children.  Through 7 characters and a narrator, I tell the story of this female serial killer who was the champion of women in her community.

What inspired you to write it?

I took Gretchen Cryer’s “Writing for Solo Performance” and fell in love with the art form.   I’ve always been interested in true crime and women’s stories and when I discovered Alexe Popova in a book on female serial killers, I knew I wanted to tell her story.

Who else is involved with the show?

Gretchen Cryer is my director, Jen McCulloch is my costume designer and stylist, and Janie Bullard designed sound.

Who is your dream audience for this show?

I’d love an audience that cares about women and interested in the issues of sexual and domestic violence, but I welcome anyone who loves a good story!

Who are your biggest influences?

After taking Gretchen’s class, she became my mentor and a source of great inspiration in terms of women’s theatre, and my family has been a big influence as well. 

What other shows are you planning to see at FRIGID?

Since I’m a huge fan of solo shows, I want to see My Three Moms, My Pussy’s Purrin’ Again!, Little Pussy, Two Lovely Black Eyes and A Day in the Life of Miss Hiccup.  But in all honesty, I want to see everything!

What's next for you after FRIGID?

I’m writing the screenplay for Maison des Reves.

Lightning round

Paper or plastic?  Paper

Comedy or drama?  Comedy

Beach or mountains?  Beach

Black box or proscenium?  Black box

Glee or Smash?  Glee

Cats or dogs?  The toughest one of all, I thought I was always a cat person until I got my boxer, Dixie.

Musical or straight play?  Straight play

Maison des Reves plays at The Red Room on the following dates:

Feb 27, 6:00PM
Mar 02, 4:45PM

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