SM Extraordinaire by Mason

What would we do without the incomparable Jessica Spivey calling the shots (and the cues)?! THESE ARE THE MEN is Jessica’s seventh project with SU. Seventh! Somewhere in the organised chaos that is show changeover (rep life is hard!), Jessica and I had a chance to chat:

This woman. We can't even.

MM: How the hell did we luck out and get to work with you?

JS: I found Savage Umbrella after I graduated from UMD in 2012 when I used Google. I came across this website, filled with ambitious artistic concepts, wonderful ideas and overall enthusiasm. I emailed Laura for more information, and landed an internship. That was almost 3 years ago and for some reason Savage Umbrella keeps asking me back despite my sass and recent determination to bring yoga to rehearsal. Maybe it's because I bake. I don't know. I personally love every show I work on with Savage.

MM: Creating new work can be messy (fun messy), and that means more work for you. What keeps you coming back?

JS: Even though creating new work is messy, changes frequently, and requires me to use at least 5 erasers per show, I keep coming back for more. It's their love and passion. The Savage Umbrella members pour their heart and soul into every production and the designers are right on board with that. It is incredibly refreshing and inspiring. It's hard for me to find the right words to describe how creative and passionate this group is. Maybe I'll put together an interpretive dance someday.

Jessica leading the charge during THESE ARE THE MEN changeover.

MM: You always make the best treats for rehearsal. What are some of your favorite treats, oh foodie?!

JS: I do bring treats to rehearsals often. Truffles, pies and scones are some of my favorite things to bake. The most creative I got was a Peach Thyme pie with chocolate shavings. Don't get weirded out, it's delicious. I love savory food too, but it's hard to bring that to rehearsal. Give me a solid spicy Pad Thai with tofu, and I'm all yours. I would also come running for guacamole. I'm on the search for the best veggie burger and Vietnamese restaurant in town. One of my favorite ways to celebrate a performance with the Savage Umbrella crew is with a Manhattan made with Bulleit Rye whiskey (do you think they will sponsor us now?).

Come see Jessica lead the way for THESE ARE THE MEN, coming back at you on Saturday, April 4, at The Southern Theater!