Spotlight on Susan Louise O’Connor: Acting Edition
In Theatre Trip’s “Spotlight On” series, we’re chatting with some of the most inspiring people in the theatre industry. And today we’re doing a special feature on Susan Louise O’Connor – a versatile actress, hilarious comedian, and co-creator of a couple of comedy web series.
Along with appearing in the Broadway and touring production of Blithe Spirit, Susan Louise O’Connor has also appeared in hit TV series such as Orange is the New Black, Wallflowers, and Law & Order (SVU & CI). So make sure to keep reading to learn more about Susan’s background, her pre-show rituals, and a sneak peek of what she’s working on next!
So what was it that initially inspired you to become a performer?
“I started acting in kindergarten, and I’m sure back then attention was a big draw. Now, I love the collaborating aspect of creating work.
And more than anything, I believe in the power of vulnerability to open hearts and minds. I know that sounds mushy, but by watching characters risk and reveal, I think audiences can then give themselves permission to do the same.”
What have been the biggest differences between screen acting and stage acting for you?
“At the very root of it, it’s the same for me in that it’s about communicating the story. But, on stage you are allowed a physical freedom that wouldn’t work for a close up. And on camera you can reveal so much with just small movements because the lens always has a front row seat.”
Can you tell us a bit about what it’s been like to be a part of Raw Pasta at New Ohio Theatre? What can we expect from the show?
“Raw Pasta is a play about a workshop for toxic masculinity and explores the repercussions of patriarchy. It’s also a super fun comedy. I think the audience can expect to laugh, groan and hopefully have lively discussions post show.”
“I believe in the power of vulnerability to open hearts and minds. … By watching characters risk and reveal, I think audiences can then give themselves permission to do the same.”
Are there any pre-show rituals that you like to do before stepping onstage?
“I tend to listen to music that my character likes. I usually do yoga to stretch it out and take a long walk, really try to loosen up my muscles and drop into my body.”
And what do you enjoy most about being a performer in the theatre industry?
“The alive-ness of the theater.”
What’s next for you? Anything else we should know about?
“I’m headed back to Los Angeles to focus on television work for the rest of this year. Snaggletooth, a short film I’m in, is currently making the festival rounds and an all improvised feature film I star in and co-created is in post-production.”
What did you think of this interview with Susan Louise O’Connor?
Are any of you working as or aspiring to be an actor or actress? We’d love to hear all about what you’re up to in the comments below! In the meantime, you can check out even more of our interviews with inspiring people in the theatre industry!
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Author: Stacy Karyn
Stacy Karyn is the founder of Theatre Trip, author of The Thespian’s Bucket List, and creator of The Cast Album List. She holds a BA in theatre, a TESOL drama certificate, and has worked and interned with Broadway and Off-Broadway theaters.