Singer-songwriter and actress Cassadee Pope chatted about starring in the Off-Broadway show “Rolling Thunder,” which will close on September 7th at New World Stages in New York.
How was your experience in “Rolling Thunder”? (Loved you in it)
Thank you so much! It was very rewarding and illuminating. I’d never originated a role before so getting to fully realize my character and establish her arch was such a wonderful experience.
I also really appreciated learning about the more detailed experiences of each character.
These stories are based on real people so feeling that pressure to accurately tell their side is always present.
What did you like most about your character?
I love Linda’s willingness to learn and evolve, especially once she goes off to college and is exposed to different viewpoints.
I also love her loyalty to her boyfriend. I can really relate to her in both of those senses.
What did this show teach you about yourself?
I tend to be perfectionistic, but this experience allowed me to loosen my grip a bit and feel comfortable with the trial-and-error period. I’d never done previews before and the idea terrified me.
Getting to try things on, realize they don’t work, try something else, and then they DO work is a really fun process. I’m proud that I was able to lean into that.
What was it like working with the cast and crew?
This is such a talented, kind, and loving group of people. From the start, everyone felt like family.
When you’re surrounded by people who care so deeply about the project, that inevitably influences you to give it your all as well.
I still feel so new at this and there was never a moment someone wasn’t willing to educate me on something. I’ve felt nurtured and supported by my fellow cast mates the entire time.
What has been your favorite part of the “Rolling Thunder” experience?
Meeting and becoming friends with my cast mates has been my favorite part by far. Everyone’s goofy, kind, creative and just a joy to be around.
Our dressing rooms are separated by a very thin wall so the banter is hilarious.
What do your plans for the future include?
I plan to continue my acting journey and hopefully gain more and more experience!
I have some songs I’m featured on by other artists which are coming out this year which I hope my music fans will enjoy.
I’ve absolutely loved prioritizing acting and living in NYC. More of that coming up!
What would you like to tell our readers about “Rolling Thunder”? (What’s the one thing you want them to get out of it)
When people see “rock journey,” I don’t think they realize the stories they’ll hear and how moved they’ll be.
I hope people walk away from our show feeling like they got to rock out with us but also cry with us.
To learn more about “Rolling Thunder,” check out its official homepage.
