A touch of ‘Glass’ with Kate Kennedy

The multi-talented Kate Kennedy has produced, directed and starred in local productions ranging from sublime Shakespeare to ridiculous Western melodrama. Now, in an Avalon Players production of “The Glass Menagerie,” she tackles one of America’s preeminent playwrights, Tennessee Williams. Kennedy both directs the work and stars as the head of an illusory Southern household where dreams and memories are as fragile as the figurines of the play’s title.

The Sun: How did you come to pick this play?
Kate Kennedy: It celebrates the Tennessee Williams 100th anniversary. He was born in 1911 in Columbus, Mississippi. I just love the language and the four characters are written beautifully; it’s such a moving piece of theatre.

Sun: You have two big jobs in this one.
Kennedy: I have been directing and acting for over 30 years, so it’s a natural fit for me.

Sun: What’s it like working with such a small cast?
Kennedy: It’s a complete joy. We’re able to concentrate and discover the relationships on such a deep level.

Sun: What have you learned over the first two weeks of the run?
Kennedy: The play is a mood piece which relies heavily on lighting and music, and takes the audience on a very dramatic ride.

Sun: Best advice you’ve given the cast this week?
Kennedy: This is our closing week and it will be bittersweet to put it to bed. Enjoy every moment you’re onstage. You’ve worked hard and deserve to be seen.

The production, also featuring Anthony Chase (pictured), Yoli Holman and Cory Sheets, plays Thurs.-Sat. nights Aug. 11-13 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Aug. 14, at 3 p.m. Andrews Hall. 938-4626. Sonomacommunitycenter.org.

Photo by Windsor Green