Like/Dislike: Gwen Grastorf, actor
Ever wonder what the circus was like 70 years ago? Ask the performers of the Happenstance Theater. The visual, poetic theater company will be putting on its own version of what goes down under the big top with "Impossible! A Happenstance Circus," opening Friday and running through June 1 at Theatre Project.
"The show is a theatrical collage of circus in the '30s and '40s. It's a bright and colorful evening, full of music, movement, humor, and wonder," said Gwen Grastorf, 32, of Takoma Park.
Aside from working with Happenstance Theater, the D.C.-based performer, an eight-year Happenstance veteran, has done physical theatre and ensemble-based shows, as well as performed with Constellation Theatre Company, and Faction of Fools, 's commedia dell'Arte troupe.
Grastorf took a break from acting to talk to us about her addiction to social media, her disappointment with "Frozen" and more.
Worst pet peeve? A messy silverware drawer.
What song/songs are you loving and hating right now? I love all kinds of music. The past week I've been re-listening to the Beatles' "White Album." I'm tired of that Bastille song, "Pompeii." He has a lovely voice but the background vocals sound like a cheesy '80s song.
Last concert/gig you went to? Probably my sister's band, Cassandra Syndrome. They're an operatic metal band.
Your worst habit? I am addicted to social media. I have to give myself time limits to not check Facebook and Twitter constantly.
Trend that has exceeded its natural lifespan? Jaded disapproval. I'm an incredible cynic, but I try very hard not to be snarky and disdainful.
Last movie you liked/disliked? I barely ever see movies, because I'm always at the theater! I see about 70 plays per year. The last movie I saw was "Frozen" and I was a bit underwhelmed after all that buzz.
TV show you can't get enough of? I don't watch many shows. I love "How It's Made" on the . I'm fascinated by assembly line machinery.
Favorite and least favorite fashion statement? I like bright jewel tones and punky boots. I don't get high-waisted pants, sandal booties or extremely tall heels that are impossible to walk in.
Last great meal you had? I had a great pre-show meal and drinks at Bar Pilar. It's a great place right next to the Source Theater in D.C.
Favorite place to get a drink in Baltimore? Rocket to Venus.
Most memorable performance with Happenstance Theater? Last year we took our show, "Cabaret Macabre" on the road to the New Orleans . We performed to sold-out houses in an amazing old crumbling church called the Marigny Opera House — an exciting and rewarding experience.
Best advice you ever got? Live your life.
Favorite thing about Baltimore? Baltimore is awesome. There is a huge indie theatre scene in Baltimore, thanks to the availability of cheap space to rent for rehearsals and performances. Baltimore is developing an incredible reputation for being the place to go for quirky, off-beat, experimental work.