“The Night Alive” is back on the New York stage.
Conor McPherson’s play, which tells the story of Tommy, a middle-aged loner who has lost hope in life, was a hit when first performed in London and New York nine years ago, and it had subsequent productions in Dublin, Chicago and Los Angeles
Of particular interest in its New York revival, from Oct. 13-22, is the fact that Tommy is played by John Duddy, who was a popular, high-profile professional middleweight boxer from 2003 through 2010, and who has since made the transition from the ring to screen and stage. Duddy has called Tommy his “toughest” role so far (see the Q & A with the actor below).
McPherson’s central character in “The Night Alive” is said to be a Jack of all trades and master of none. Tommy lives in his Uncle Maurice’s bedsit in North Dublin, scraping by through life with his loyal companion Doc.
Life takes an unexpected turn when Tommy meets Aimee and decides to save her from a dark path. As their worlds collide, both sense a glimmer that life could get better after all. This play examines loneliness and the search for human connection all with a helping of classic Dublin humor. Additionally this journey of five lost souls is scored by Marvin Gaye’s “What's Going On.”
“The Night Alive” will be performed at the Chain Theatre, 312 West 36th St., N.Y. 10018. Directed by Kathy Gail MacGowan, and produced by Maiden Productions and Team Theater, the show will see Derry City’s Duddy share the stage with Molly Ehrenberg-Peters, Haydn Harvey, Lloyd Peters and Thomas Shuman. Tickets, which are $25, can be booked here.
During a break in rehearsals recently a couple of his colleagues in the production involved sat down with John Duddy to ask him a few questions.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself, John, and what led you to acting?
When I stopped boxing a good friend, Seamus McDonagh, checked in with me to see if I was okay and to say that he was working in a play about an Irish-American fighter, Bobby Cassidy. It was called “Kid Shamrock.” Would I play the younger Kid Shamrock? I fell in love with the stage with that whole experience.
What are the similarities and differences between acting and boxing?
Going to rehearsal and the repetition with the lines and the movements of the players throughout the play reminds me of the days of going to the gym and punching the bag and sparring and learning the same combination over and over so that hopefully when you’re on, you don’t have to think about it — you just breath and let it all go.
How did you end up becoming a part of “The Night Alive”?
I was invited to audition, which came as a great surprise. I’ve been lucky to have worked with some great people in the past and I was recommended by them. So I am very fortunate that Molly, Haydn, Thomas, Lloyd and Kathy let me join their team.
What do you feel is one of the main questions McPherson is asking with his play?
I feel that people always put on a brave face in their everyday lives. No matter what struggles they may be living through. We always play it’s going to be alright. Sometimes, unfortunately. it doesn’t turn out alright, but then sometimes the light breaks through and we can make it together.
Do you find any similarities between you and the character of Tommy?
Yes. I think Tommy has a kind heart. He has made mistakes in the past. And he hopes he can redeem himself somehow to put everything right again. He also loves a wee singsong and a dance. Like myself.
This is the toughest role I have ever taken on. It is such a good play. My biggest challenge is to put on a great show with my fellow cast mates.
What do you hope the audience takes away from this show?
I hope the audience can lose themselves while watching us and enjoy the journey we take them on.
