Podcast Summary: "Class Notes: Terea Campbell from 'The Hills of California'"

Introduction

In this engaging episode of BroadwayRadio, host Lauren Klass Snyder sits down with acclaimed actress Terea Campbell to discuss her multifaceted role in the play "The Hills of California" at the Broadhurst Theatre. Released on November 19, 2024, the conversation delves deep into Campbell's portrayal of dual characters, the physical and emotional demands of her role, her audition journey, and her broader involvement in the Broadway community.

Dual Roles: Penny and Biddy

Campbell opens up about the unique challenge of playing two distinct characters within the same production.

"I play Penny and Biddy." (00:43)

• Penny: Introduced in the 1970s segment of the play, Penny serves as the end-of-life care nurse for Veronica Webb, one of the central Webb sisters.
• Biddy: Set in the 1950s, Biddy is a worker at the Seaview guest house who forms a close, albeit non-relative, bond with Veronica, assisting with household duties in exchange for room and board.

"A little bit closer than a maid, but, you know, still not a relative." (01:42)

Inhabiting Two Distinct Characters

Lauren probes into how Campbell navigates the complexities of embodying both Penny and Biddy.

"Both of them are caregivers, and I am a caregiver. I'm a nurturing sort of person." (01:54)

• Personal Connection: Campbell draws from her real-life experience as a caregiver for a relative battling cancer, lending authenticity to Penny's character.

  "It's very personal, that particular role for me to tap into." (02:30)

• Accent Mastery: Portraying Biddy requires Campbell to perfect a Black Bull accent, adding another layer of depth to her performance.

  "The most important thing for me is to make sure I get my black bull accent correct, because it's quite difficult." (03:03)

The Physical Demands of the Role

The conversation shifts to the rigorous physicality required for the performance.

"I've walked up 474 stairs during each performance." (03:18)

• Staircase Challenge: Campbell clarifies that it's actually just under 400 flights of stairs per show, not including additional trips backstage.

  "It is quite the uphill, no pun intended, battle of the stairs in the show." (03:19)

• Physical Therapy: Maintaining such stamina necessitates ongoing physical therapy, which Campbell manages diligently.

Audition Process and Casting

Campbell shares an amusing yet insightful recount of her audition experience.

"I forgot that I needed to film... So we got the tape done and then I came back to New York City and had a couple of callbacks... and I got the part on July 1st." (04:05)

• Self-Tape Mishap: While vacationing in Texas, Campbell initially forgot to prepare a self-tape for her audition.

• Creative Solution: With the help of a friend, she improvised a tape using unconventional attire, balancing professionalism with a bathing suit ensemble.

  "On the top half it was all business. On the bottom half it was all bathing suit." (04:05)

• Successful Outcome: This impromptu effort led to successful callbacks and ultimately securing the role.

Rehearsal Experience in London

The play's origins in London introduce a blend of cultural influences during rehearsals in New York.

"I became the unofficial sort of, is this American Terea?" (05:16)

• Diverse Cast: With a majority of British and Irish actors, Campbell navigates subtle cultural and linguistic nuances.
• Minimal Adjustments: While a few terms required tweaking for American audiences, the production maintained its integrity through effective contextual storytelling.

Collaboration with Jez Butterworth and Laura Donnelly

Campbell sheds light on working alongside the esteemed playwright Jez Butterworth and fellow actor Laura Donnelly.

"Jazz wrote a completely new Act 3... So if you think you've seen it and you saw it in Weston, please come and see it again, because it is completely different." (06:36)

• Dynamic Script: Post the West End's successful run, Butterworth introduced a completely new Act 3, offering a fresh narrative twist.

• Professional Relationships: Campbell praises Laura Donnelly's professionalism and the collaborative spirit between the cast members.

  "She's the most professional person I've ever worked with... they do collaborate with each other." (07:23)

The Jazz SEM Players and Future Aspirations

Discussing her time with the Jazz SEM Players, Campbell expresses hope for future collaborations.

"I can't imagine that we won't start another play in six weeks... I feel so lucky and I wish that, you know, the next play that I get to do, we could just have all the same people again." (08:24)

• Camaraderie: The tight-knit bond among the cast fosters a supportive and dynamic working environment.
• Future Projects: Campbell looks forward to maintaining these professional relationships in upcoming endeavors.

Involvement with Broadway Inspirational Voices Choir

Beyond her acting career, Campbell is deeply involved with the Broadway Inspirational Voices choir.

"We don't just sing, we're also an outreach ministries, so we do a lot of things for the community and works of service for people." (09:25)

• Longevity and Commitment: Being a member for 15 years in a choir celebrating its 30th anniversary, Campbell plays a pivotal role as both a member and stylist.
• Community Outreach: The choir's mission extends beyond performances, engaging in various community service initiatives.

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with heartfelt thanks exchanged between Lauren and Terea, highlighting the enriching dialogue and Campbell's passion both on and off the stage.

"This has been a real treat. Thank you, Terea." (10:02)
"Thank you so much, Lauren. It's been my pleasure." (10:13)

Campbell's insights offer listeners a comprehensive view of the dedication and artistry behind her performance in "The Hills of California" and her broader contributions to the Broadway community.