My Acting Bucket List: Jo Anne Glover

I’m asking veteran actors to name five dream roles and say why. The answers not only reveal aspirations, they may put an idea in the minds of artistic directors and producers — even choices that seem outside the box.

“Geez – this is a tall order! But I’m always drawn to interesting language and cool relationships, so…”

1.) Tamora, Titus Andronicus, by William Shakespeare. The Empress of Rome seeks revenge for the slaying of her son. “I kind of love the bloody, visceral nature of the play. It is violent, but as an actor, plays like this can be the most fun experiences. Where else but on the stage can I be a powerful, vengeful, sexy, warrior mother?”

2.) Emilie, Emilie: La Marquis du Chatelet Defends Her Life Tonight, by Lauren Gunderson. The French mathematician and scientific genius wants to know which is more important, love or philosophy? “Okay, a shameless plug; I get to play the role this winter for New Village Arts. The script haunts me. I’ve always been intrigued by the similarities between scientists and artists, and this character gets to process her life’s work, loves, and what it all meant, after her death. In front of an audience!”

3.) Zetta Stone, Dog Act, by Liz Duffy Adams. Post-apocalyptic traveling performer and her dog try to find China, doing shows along the way. “This is a play I’ve done at Moxie, but not the role I played. I love the language and Zetta has such a beautiful spirit. I love her strength, her way of speaking, and her relationship with her companion, Dog.”

4.) Cassandra, Trojan Women, by Euripides. The prophetess at Troy is cursed to see a future that no one will believe. “I played this role when I was much younger, and she’s one I’d like to revisit. I think I have a stronger grasp now in the idea of being driven mad by having knowledge that doesn’t actually serve you and circumstances outside your control.”

5.) Woman, “Talk to the Rain and Let Me Listen,” by Tennessee Williams. Man and Woman, says Williams, “have been completely worn out and there is nothing left but acceptance of something hopelessly inalterable between them.” “This big, little one-act is one of my favorite pieces of theater. I grew up on the Gulf Coast, and so Williams’ writing about those environments cuts right to my soul. I just love the tragic beauty of it, the language, and the relationship of these two characters.”