Kate Jajewski has been performing with MPT for over 10 years. We’re excited to have her back again as the loyal and exuberant Mary Flynn.
Merrily We Roll Along moves back through the memories of three friends. What do you hope the audience will remember from this production?
I hope they remember some of their own youthful hope and optimism! We don't get the opportunity to watch our own lives back in this way, but it's never too late to start, to try again, to try something new. It's easy to lose some of the youthful confidence that we unlearn over time, but that doesn't mean we can't get some back. It all comes back to the rooftop!
What makes having OLD friends so meaningful?
Your old friends have seen you through so many seasons of your life and chosen to love you in each one. My very best friend has been my bestie since we were about 10 years old. We experienced middle school, high school, and college together. Living in the same town, different states, and even at one point on different continents. But even in seasons where we couldn't talk as much or see each other as much, I always knew we had each other's backs. We've both grown up together and started our families, getting to know and love each other's spouses and his little baby girl! True old friends are more like family.
What’s the best thing about making NEW friends?
I'm of the firm belief that love is an infinite and renewable resource! One of my very favorite people in the whole world just came into my life about 3 years ago, but it already feels like I've known her forever! We met at MPT doing "The Musical of Musicals: The Musical" and by the end of the first week of rehearsals I knew she'd hold an important place in my life. If you leave your heart and mind open to new connections, you're never too old and it's never too late to make a new friend.
What’s your favorite line or lyric from Merrily We Roll Along? Why?
"Someday just began" from Our Time always really hits me. That feeling of forward momentum that comes with the decision to take action to pursue your dreams rather than just wish them.
As you’ve been rehearsing this story about creative people, how have you reflected on your own creative process?
It has been particularly emotional doing this show at MPT. I grew up in this theatre; I did my first MPT show (RENT) 11 years ago when I was only 21 years old. I've had some incredible mentors and friends in this space encourage me to explore, give me space to try and fail, and push me to be better. I've done some of my best work in this space, as well as some where I maybe swung and I missed. In both scenarios and every one in between, I grew and learned. The methods with which I explore and research the text, develop character, and craft story have changed and grown with me as well. I wouldn't be the artist I am today without this company.
Charley, Frank, and Mary all have big dreams. What was your big dream when you were younger?
I wanted to be a stage actress and desperately wanted to work in a coffee shop. While I may not have gone on to Broadway like I thought I would when I was younger, I have technically achieved both items on the list!
What is your big dream now?
To wake up not tired... :)
Don’t miss Kate onstage in Merrily We Roll Along May 9-18! Tickets are on sale now at www.middletonplayers.com/tickets.