Interview: Playwright Michael Tucker and FERN HILL at NJ Rep through 9/9

Michael Tucker's play, Fern Hill is now having its world premiere at New Jersey Repertory Company (NJ Rep) through September 9. The play is wowing theatergoers and critics alike. Fern Hill is helmed by Australian director, Nadia Tass and stars Jill Eikenberry, John Glover, Dee Hoty, Jodi Long, Tom McGowan, and David Rasche.

In Fern Hill, Three couples in their golden years are gathered at Sunny and Jer's farmhouse to celebrate milestone birthdays that span three decades. The foundation of their long friendship is honesty and support - as well as a commitment to the enjoyment of food, wine, and laughter. They're so close that Sunny suggests they all move in together - to live and work and assist one another as they grow older. Their companionship is put to the test, however, when a betrayal is discovered. The bonds of loyalty and truth are explored in this mature comedy.

Broadwayworld.com enjoyed the opportunity to interview Michael Tucker about his career and Fern Hill.

Tucker is an actor, author and playwright. His first play, The M Spot also debuted at The New Jersey Repertory Company. His short plays, Pittsburgh and Zazu have been presented as part of The West End Festival Of The Arts. He has also written three memoirs and a novel, "After Annie." He has acted over the last fifty years in theater, TV and film, most notably in the TV Series, "L.A. Law."

When did you first realize you were destined for a career in the performing arts?

When I was in high school I realized that I wasn't much good at anything else, so I tried out for the school play. I had always enjoyed being the center of attention -- crucial for an actor -- so it it all worked out pretty well.

Have you had any particular mentors or people who have inspired your career?

I've had many. My freshman English teacher in high school, Gerry Levin, had a huge effect on my life. He taught me about Shakespeare, poetry. I learned that I could express myself well through writing. Eventually, he also helped me choose my audition pieces for Carnegie Tech, which is where I subsequently studied and learned to act.

When did you first realize your penchant for writing?

I've always liked to write but I never did anything with it. When L.A. Law ended, Jill and I decided to take some time away from show biz and I used that time to write down some memories of my life as seen through some of the best meals I've had. That turned into my first book (shameless plug: "I Never Forget a Meal: An Indulgent Reminiscence") and I haven't stopped writing since.

You have such wide-ranging and impressive credits. What does it take to juggle such a diverse career?

I've always been interested in new things -- new skills, new people, new places. And I'm blessed to have a partner in my life who's always game to change direction with me. We have a good time.

Tell us a little about how you conceived the plot for Fern Hill.

We have a house in Italy and we have a wonderful group of friends there -- some ex-pats like us and some native Italians. About six or seven years ago a bunch of us went to a sagra, which is a village festival. After the eating, dancing and games of skill in the town square we all ended up on the steps of a bar around 1:00 in the morning, sipping grappa, and a discussion was started about aging and what we might do about. That's the first time I was in a discussion about the possibility of living with ones friends as a way to enjoy the aging process -- and eventually the dying process -- in a better way.

We love the play's concept. Do you think it could work?

You'd have to have the right people -- and by that I mean the right people for you.

A little about working so closely with your wife, Jill.

I enjoy being close to Jill -- whether it's working, playing, cooking in our kitchen or sleeping in our bed. My life is better when I'm with her.

What are your hopes for the future of Fern Hill?

I'd love for it to have more productions. It seems to be a play that draws good actors and that bodes well for its future. We'll wait and see.

Do you have any specific plans for the future?

Italy in November -- to pick our olives; a trip to Portland to spend some time with our kids; visiting friends; staying home -- stuff like that.

Anything else, absolutely anything you want BWW NJ readers to know!

Yes. You have a unique and splendid jewel of that theater in the New Jersey Repertory Company. Gabor and Suzanne Barabas are theater visionaries and they are as pure in their vision as one could be. I think you should all attend it and support it. It's a gem.

Fern Hill has a run time of two hours with one intermission. The show will be performed at NJ Rep through September 9. The theatre is located at 179 Broadway, Long Branch, NJ 07740. Regular performances are Thursdays and Fridays at 8:00 pm; Saturdays at 3:00 pm and 8:00 pm; and Sundays at 2:00 pm. For tickets and more information, call 732-229-3166 and visit: http://www.njrep.org/.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Michael Tucker and NJ Rep

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