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What expectations did you have going into the process of creating ‘MARJANA’?
I expected to dive into an incredibly unique process and learn about The One Thousand and One Nights in a way I hadn’t known of them throughout my childhood. I also expected to just tell Marjana’s story – an empowering and relevant narrative in and of itself – without regard to the frame story. But to me, Scheherazade helps to better understand the tale of Marjana and her perspicacity.
Has the focus on the character of Marjana changed the way the ensemble is telling the story?
The story can be told from a variety of viewpoints and we are trying to honor that. However, I don’t think I would tell the story any differently. In my mind Marjana is and always will be the hero.
What other design forms are incorporated into ‘MARJANA’? I was able to see a bit of rehearsal and know there’s dance and music?!
Carolyn Mraz and Cheyanne Williams helped design a beautiful tent where the audience will be sitting in the same space as the performers. Eamon Goodman helped put together an incredible spectrum of sounds from a casual “boing” to an angelic opera. Dina El-Aziz and Ana-Sofia Meneses’s vibrant costumes will surely capture everyone’s attention. And of course, Kate McGee’s ability to manipulate light will be ever-present throughout the show. All of this and more, guided by David Herskovits’s brilliance. The music and dance in this show were devised by the entire team – designers, stage managers, director, assistant director, associate artistic director, performers, etc. Music is used for transitions, mood, and furthering the story we tell. There are a few songs the cast will be singing that we all created together. And a really fun dance sequence that I’m particularly excited about.
You and the cast have been creating this show from the ground up. What can audiences expect in this production, and what are you most excited about sharing with them?
The audience can expect thought-provoking and enlightening content in a nontraditional viewing experience. I am excited about all aspects of the show. But if I were to pick, first and foremost, I am thrilled to share Marjana’s story. I am also particularly excited to share my newfound understanding of how The One Thousand and One Nights popularized in the West.
What’s next for you after Marjana and the Forty Thieves?
I am in the process of creating some original work. I also hope to continue collaborating with the Target Margin community!
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Anish Roy is an actor thrilled to be making his Target Margin debut. Born in Iowa and raised in New Jersey, Anish is a recent graduate of Indiana University. He has trained at Stella Adler Studios and DRM Studios and performed at Theatre 80 St. Marks in his New York stage debut in December 2018. Currently represented by Bobbie Merritt and Deborah Kym of The Entertainment Group.