You may have seen Madison Wray and Haley Ward. They performed together in Oregon Children Theatre’s “Fancy Nancy” last season and individually have starred in several other productions. Both in their senior years of high school, these young thespians are currently co-starring in the highly anticipated “Ivy + Bean: The Musical,” where you can see them as the notorious, inseparable and mischievous best friends, Ivy and Bean. We had a chance to catch up with the actors about their experience in the theater thus far. Here’s what they had to say.
How did you get involved in acting?
MW: When I was young I was incredibly shy in public but in the privacy of my house I sang and danced non-stop. My mom enrolled me in theater camps hoping that might bring me out of my shell. It worked. I took several classes and then auditioned for my first play. I have been acting continuously since then.
HW: I started singing and dancing from an early age. My first class, at age 7, was with, what is now, Abernethy Performing Arts
with Keith Walls. I performed in a couple musical reviews. I played Molly in “Annie” and Michael Banks in “Mary Poppins”. By
the time I was 11 I was cast as Peter in “Peter Pan” in a community theatre production and I knew this was for me!
What do you love about acting and performing?
HW: I love that I can be part of sharing other people’s stories through music, dialogue and dance. I love when I know I have connected to people in the audience. That I’ve given them something to think or feel about. I know when this happens because I get to see the reactions of the audience, face to face. There is nothing else like it.
MW: I love the tight bond that develops between the cast members in a production and I love interacting with an audience.
Adopting and exploring a new persona on stage is always exciting,
How do you develop a character? Or prepare for a role?
MW: I try to research all of the different facets of the character and then apply my own experience to my work. I watch and
observe people a lot. For example when preparing to play the role of Nancy in “Fancy
Nancy” we had a dance party with a bunch of 7-year-olds.
Do you ever get nervous? How do you feel when you perform?
HW: YES! It’s necessary to be nervous. If I’m not nervous then I’m not serious. I use it. When I perform I feel what my character
feels. Before and afterwards I feel anxious and exhausted. All great feelings!
What is a good age to begin acting and taking classes?
MW: I began when I was four but it’s never too early or late to start.
What actors do you admire?
HW: Everyone I have worked with, on every show in Portland I’ve been in, to date. Seriously, they have all made me a better
actor and performer. I like actors that can play a variety of roles. I really appreciate actors who have a broad range. They inspire
me to do the same.
What advice would you give to someone who wanted to do what you do?
MW: I would tell them to let their heart and passion guide them and that they can be successful if that’s what they wish for.
HW: Get involved, anyway you can. Do school shows, sing in church, tryout or even volunteer at your community theatre. Taking classes at places like Oregon Children’s Theatre is a great way to start or even accelerate your current involvement. If you love it and are willing to seek experience and always improve your skills, the rest will follow.
What is your favorite part you have played?
MW: There are so many that I have really enjoyed, so it’s difficult to choose just one. Some of them include Jackie Bouvier in “Grey Gardens” at Portland Center Stage, Young Cosette in “Les Miserables” at Broadway Rose and Mildred in “Zombie in Love” at OCT.
What is special about OCT?
MW: OCT is special because, while it is an incredibly professional environment, it is also tremendously supportive. Even though we work very hard there is never a lack of fun. I always feel good when I am there.
HW: The opportunity for young people to actually perform in a professional setting sets them apart. The staff at OCT
is incredibly supportive and know how to cultivate young people to be their best. They are one of my home away from homes, I
have here in Portland.
“Ivy + Bean: The Musical” runs from October 25th-November 23rd at the Newmark Theatre. Tickets start at $18. For more information, head to octc.org/onstage/ivybean
