Tori is a fourth-year Theatre VCU student pursuing her BFA in Theatre Performancee with a minor in Dance and Choreography. She is currently on the path towards working as a stunt worman. She plays Emilie, a courtesan that Valmont has taken a liking to. Madame de Trouvel interrupts a meeting between Emilie and Valmont, which cause conflicts in Trouvel and Valmont’s relationship.
With such a period piece, how has the rehearsal process been for the show?
The rehearsal process has been an amazing experience. All of the ladies wore rehearsal corsets from the beginning of rehearsal, in order to learn how to hold that tall 18th century carriage. Also, we had to learn how to support our breath and breathe properly with the restriction of torso that the corsets created. The period history is fascinating, and all of the actors researched the history of France pre and post revolutionary times. This show requires the dedication of everyone involved as we bring to life this world with honest human emotion and actions, while never losing the story.
How has it been working with Tawnya Pettiford-Wates and Aaron Willoughby as well as the rest of the crew? Is this your first time working with the team?
It is always a fulfilling adventure working with Dr. T. I love her methods and passion for theatre. Aaron has been a great support in the journey of Liaisons, both him and Dr. T have helped all the actors to grow as artists and always continue to teach me more about myself as an artist and the art of theatre itself. The crew have been so supportive and an absolute joy to work with.
What research have you done for the production for your character?
I am always researching for Emilie. Consistently finding out more and more to support her and how she has evolved into this character. I began by looking at French art, and then researched a great deal about the history of France at that time, as well as the music from the time period. I also delved into the movement style of people, especially women from this time. Specifically for Emilie, I became closely associated with the courtesans of the time period, how they were viewed, what they did and why, and their social class level was. Once I did the book research, I was then able to do some explorations in the studio and rehearsal - finding her body center and voice.
With such an active and intensive rehearsal schedule, how has your time management improved?
I record all that I have to do and schedule things in on an agenda, making sure that I have enough time to do all that I need to finish. I have reaffirmed my belief that there is always enough time. I make sure to hit the deadlines in chronological order.
What are your future projects?
I am in a continual process of creating my solo piece, This Colorful Imperfection, which will be first shared in December with the Solo Class Sharings on Dec 13th and 15th. I am also in the process of working on an independent study with Lauren Hafner that is delving into the world of Archetypes and how they move through dance. We will be sharing our work for an audience on the evening of Dec 14th. I am also working on a movement study under the direction of Charley Raintree.
What is some advice you can share for perspective students for theatre students at VCU?
Grab every opportunity that comes your way, especially if it is something new, something you have never done before, because you may find a new interest. Theatre VCU is a safe environment, a learning environment and you should utilize every second of your time here. With that said, make sure you don't overbook yourself. You cannot succeed if you deplete your energy. Live moment to moment, breathe deeply and know that you are enough.
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