Featured Performer of the Week: Richard Strimer

BroadwayWorld is thrilled to present its latest feature series: The Performer of the Week! Get to know these amazing talents as they share a bit about themselves, their work and life!

Today, we're thrilled to feature Richard Strimer currently playing Gene Kelly in Chicago's Theatre at the Center's WHAT A GLORIOUS FEELING!

Richard's Credits Include:

At Theatre at the Center: Bobby Child in Crazy for You (Joseph Jefferson Nomination), Will Parker in Oklahoma!, CosMo Brown inSingin' in the Rain, and others.

Other regional credits include: Bobby Child in Crazy for You at Fulton Opera in PA, CosMo Brown in Singin' in the Rain at Carousel Dinner Theatre in OH, Harry Beaton in Brigadoon, Ensemble in Swing!, Buster in Damn Yankees at Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire, Action in West Side Story, Benjamin inSeven Brides for Seven Brothers, and Ambrose in Hello, Dolly! at Drury Lane Oakbrook.

We've Got Questions!

1) What are you working on right now?

I am currently doing a production of "What a Glorious Feeling" at Theatre at the Center in Munster, IN. This is a show about the creation of "Singin' in the Rain" and the relationships between the 5 main characters: Gene Kelly, Stanley Donen, Jeanne Coyne, Debbie Reynolds and Arthur Freed. I am playing the role of Gene Kelly.

2) What has been your professional biggest accomplishment so far?

Overall, I consider my biggest accomplishment, in this profession, to have built a 20 year career where performing has been my only job. A standout moment is receiving the Joseph Jefferson Award for CosMo Brown in "Singin' in the Rain" performed at the late Drury Lane Evergreen Park.

3) Share your funniest or worst audition moment

Mine would have to be a combination of both funniest and worst all wrapped up into one. Years ago I was contacted by my agent to audition for a production of "Gilligan's Island the Musical" for the role of Gilligan. My agent was not sure of the music so I altered lyrics to "fit the show" and, at the suggestion of this agent, dressed for the character. I am talking red jersey, light blue pants, boat shoes and hat...the works. I enter the lobby of the theatre to see a group of men all dressed in slacks, ties and suits. Nerves are a little shaken at this sight. I later enter the audition space to find Sherwood Schwartz (the creator of Gilligan's Island and many other popular TV shows) sitting behind the table. He looks up when I enter and I hear him say, in a sarcastic voice, "Well, someone wants the role." Mortified and nerves shot. I don't remember the rest of the audition.

4) What's your dream role?

In my soul: Jesus in "Jesus Christ Superstar".

In reality: Zach in "A Chorus Line".

5) If you weren't a performer, what would you be?

In my heart I know I would still be involved in this business, most likely on a tech crew as a carpenter or a member of the running crew.

6) Where do you see yourself in 5, 10 years?

Still performing in the business, still trying to hone my craft, hoping to start a transition into directing.

Thanks, Richard!

BWW wants to feature YOU! Interested? Contact romi@broadwayworld.com and we'll get you set up!