Lisle's Ellen Daschler in Wheaton Drama's 'The Heiresss'
There are actors who look around our world with a “glass half-empty” point of view, choosing only to see all the sadness that life has to offer. Theatre presents these folks with an opportunity to escape their cares for a while. For Ellen Daschler, currently appearing in Wheaton Drama's production of "The Heiress" at Playhouse 111 in Wheaton, theatre is a simple extension of her joy for life. “While other kids were listening to New Kids on the Block, I was raised on 'Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat', 'Cats', and 'Les Miserables'.”
Asked how she became involved in theatre, Ellen beams as she answers: “I've loved theatre - it's something I've loved watching since I was frighteningly young, and I couldn't wait to try it, as soon as I found out it was possible.”
Ellen tried and took to it quickly, acting in plays in Wheaton community theatre while she was in elementary school, high school, and college - all the while seeing more and more good in the world of theatre. When asked about her favorite roles, she recalls a wonderful experience from her past: “I played the lead player in 'Pippin'. That was exciting for me because that is traditionally played be a male!” Ellen felt honored that the production staff trusted her with the role.
In talking about her favorite play, Ellen shows not only her joy for Chicago, but also for a very special experience: “My favorite play is 'August: Osage County'. I love that it has Chicago ties and I was fortunate enough to see the original Broadway cast in New York…loved the show.” Ellen is so vibrant over theatre, she can't stop talking about it: “It simply makes me happy. So many people working together, sharing such different skills to create unrepeatable moments of live production.”
In being cast as Maria, maid to the Sloper household in "The Heiress", Ellen has the opportunity to explore not only the character's good points, but the ability to see goodness in others - a trait she and Maria have in common. “(Maria) is incredibly loyal, and blind to the bitterness of the Doctor (played by Larry Boller), as he has none towards her. She allows the audience to see a different side of the Doctor and creates a natural competition for Catherine (played by Lisa Schmela)." When asked of other things she has in common with her character, Ellen giggles as she answers: "She has an incessant need to keep things tidy! I am a bit of a neat freak. Also, I can identify with Maria's ability to connect with the Doctor despite his cold tendencies. I do my best to see the good in people.”
Ellen wants to share that good with audiences. "The Heiress" “is an intriguing story with questionable character motives...it deals with the long term effects of misplaced anger stemming from tragedy. A father struggles with the loss of a beloved wife, and transfers his anger toward his awkward daughter, causing devastation on future relationships.” Ellen adds with glee, “I may be biased, but I think we've got some very talented actors in this show!”
In addition to her rich theatre life, Ellen teaches Special Education at an alternative school in Naperville, and spends time with the other passions in her life: “My fabulous boyfriend and I live in Lisle, and spend all our free time taking care of our anxious dog and working house projects. I have an incredible support system of family and friends who encourage my theatrical endeavors...I'm so grateful for their love and understanding.”
There is a great deal to admire about Ellen in her theatrical life, and her real life. Many Wheaton Drama members hope she will come back and “play with them” after "The Heiress" concludes, and for Ellen the feeling is mutual: “What a wonderful experience...the Wheaton Drama family has been more than welcoming, and I'm so honored to be a part of this show!”
Performances of "The Heiress" are September 7 through September 30, 2012 at Playhouse 111, 111 N. Hale Street, downtown Wheaton, IL 60187. Shows are Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 8pm and Sundays at 3pm. "The Heiress" is licensed by Dramatists Play Service. Tickets are $13 for Thursdays; $16 for Fridays-Sundays.
Wheaton Drama's upcoming shows are: "The Sound of Music" (November 9–December 9); "It's A Wonderful Life" (radio show, December 14-16); "Sherlock Holmes: The Final Adventure" (January 25-February 17, 2013); "Full Circle" (March 15-April 7, 2013 – confirmation of rights pending) and "Into the Woods" (May 17-June 9, 2013).
For show tickets and information, please visit http://www.wheatondrama.org, or call 630-260-1820. Follow on Twitter at WDIpublicity. Article by Peter Lemongell for Wheaton Drama Publicity. publicity@wheatondrama.org
###