Company Interviews: Melanie Leon as Guiderius
We asked Melanie Leon, who plays Guiderius and a Gentlewoman in our production of Cymbeline, a few questions about herself, the production, and romance...
Melanie Leon as Guiderius. Photo by Kyle Purcell.
Shakespeare BASH'd sets its productions in bars. What is the weirdest place you've performed?
It's a tie. I was in a devised physical theatre piece called Flooded that took place on a boat. It sailed every night before sunset for the duration of the show. The other wild, site specific show I was in took place in one of the most haunted buildings in all of Canada, The Maritime Museum in Victoria, BC. While that venue was totally stunning, I was mildly disappointed with the lack of paranormal activity that I experienced...
What might people be interested to know about your take on your character?
Once again, I'm playing a character that was originally written for a man, so exploring Guiderius, not only as a woman, but as the individual that I am has been quite rewarding. Guiderius is immediately othered by Cloten. He calls her "base," "rustic," and "slavish," simply for living a lifestyle contrary to his. Because of this prejudice (and his colossal arrogance) he seriously underestimates her strength, which as a woman (and stage combatant) is all too familiar to me. It's just so satisfying having all the heroes of this story played by uniquely strong women. Even the villainous Queen, as ruthless as she is, still remains a true and utter badass.
What is your history with Shakespeare BASH'd?
This is my third show with Shakespeare BASH'd, but it's unique in that it's my first time working with Julia as my director! She's so knowledgeable with the text, and I love that she's leaning into the fairytale concept. I feel like it really gives me permission to play during this process.
If you were running away into the woods, who would you take with you and why?
My god, if I'm going into the woods, no doubt about it, I'm bringing my sister. The name of the game is survival, because Lord knows I'm useless when it comes to the outdoors and she is a total woodswoman. She's a camp guide in Temagami and takes youths into the woods every summer for something crazy like 30 days at time! Honestly, I've thought about her a lot during this process and as an inspiration for Guiderius. I love you, Maggie XO
Cymbeline is often classified as a romance. Are you a romantic?
Of course I love a grand romantic gesture, but honestly, it's the little love gestures that bring me the most sustainable joy. My sweetheart and I are really into leaving each other hidden post it notes around our homes. Makes my heart leap every time I find one. If you make the other laugh, you get extra points.
If your character were at Junction City Music Hall, what drink would they order?
Wellington Brewery Brown Ale
What is your post-show drink of choice?
A double shot of rye, neat.
What are you most excited for people to see in this production?
All these talented humans. This is one of the more difficult Shakespeare plays to stage and I think everyone is doing a fantastic job at telling this bonkers story. I cant wait for you folks to see it!
It's a tie. I was in a devised physical theatre piece called Flooded that took place on a boat. It sailed every night before sunset for the duration of the show. The other wild, site specific show I was in took place in one of the most haunted buildings in all of Canada, The Maritime Museum in Victoria, BC. While that venue was totally stunning, I was mildly disappointed with the lack of paranormal activity that I experienced...
What might people be interested to know about your take on your character?
Once again, I'm playing a character that was originally written for a man, so exploring Guiderius, not only as a woman, but as the individual that I am has been quite rewarding. Guiderius is immediately othered by Cloten. He calls her "base," "rustic," and "slavish," simply for living a lifestyle contrary to his. Because of this prejudice (and his colossal arrogance) he seriously underestimates her strength, which as a woman (and stage combatant) is all too familiar to me. It's just so satisfying having all the heroes of this story played by uniquely strong women. Even the villainous Queen, as ruthless as she is, still remains a true and utter badass.
What is your history with Shakespeare BASH'd?
This is my third show with Shakespeare BASH'd, but it's unique in that it's my first time working with Julia as my director! She's so knowledgeable with the text, and I love that she's leaning into the fairytale concept. I feel like it really gives me permission to play during this process.
If you were running away into the woods, who would you take with you and why?
My god, if I'm going into the woods, no doubt about it, I'm bringing my sister. The name of the game is survival, because Lord knows I'm useless when it comes to the outdoors and she is a total woodswoman. She's a camp guide in Temagami and takes youths into the woods every summer for something crazy like 30 days at time! Honestly, I've thought about her a lot during this process and as an inspiration for Guiderius. I love you, Maggie XO
Cymbeline is often classified as a romance. Are you a romantic?
Of course I love a grand romantic gesture, but honestly, it's the little love gestures that bring me the most sustainable joy. My sweetheart and I are really into leaving each other hidden post it notes around our homes. Makes my heart leap every time I find one. If you make the other laugh, you get extra points.
If your character were at Junction City Music Hall, what drink would they order?
Wellington Brewery Brown Ale
What is your post-show drink of choice?
A double shot of rye, neat.
What are you most excited for people to see in this production?
All these talented humans. This is one of the more difficult Shakespeare plays to stage and I think everyone is doing a fantastic job at telling this bonkers story. I cant wait for you folks to see it!