The Man Behind the Characters

One man, 90 minutes, 40 wildly diverse characters...it can be quite the daunting task for any performer, it requires speed, fluidity, and impeccable timing. Luckily for Threshold Rep, we have local actor Adam Miles to take this show to great heights. This marks the first time he's done a one-man show, but that certainly didn't scare him off. In fact, the complex characters have challenged him in a variety of ways, from character study to script analysis. Having been a stand-up comedian for 10 years he is used to performing in front of audiences and telling them stories. Fully Committed is the perfect avenue for him to tell the stories of these 40 characters, each unique in their own way.

Adam has exuberant energy and gets to explore that within the show. When asked what was different about this particular show, he comments that, "with other shows you are encouraged to explore the stage, this production puts me in a box and bounces me around. It intentionally tethers me then raises the energy level to 11."

Adam's main character is Sam Peliczowski, an out-of-work actor who mans the high demand reservation line at Manhattan's top restaurant. He not only plays himself, his father, and fellow employees, but everyone who calls into the restaurant trying to make a reservation. You've got personal assistants to celebrities, socialites, and egomaniacs, all dying to get their name on the list. All of this calls for him to be quick and precise with transitions. Adam recalls one transition in particular where he is running all over the stage, back and forth from the switchboard, the intercom, and the chef's phone in record time. Given the subject matter, there is lots of comedy involved in the show, but you also get to see character exploration and heartwarming moments.

Lots of people like to know why actors keep doing what they're doing. For Adam, it's the exploration of the characters and "discovering what makes them tick." "The most challenging aspect for me is not overthinking the process. I'm notorious for overthinking things and there is a point where you just have to let go." If you love to laugh (or even if you don't), you must make plans to come see Fully Committed. There's enough to keep you entertained for the whole show, and one solid performer to keep the momentum going.