Playing the role of Of Mice and Men’s “Carlson” is a change of pace for Nick Demetriades. He is usually cast in Agatha Christie-antagonist-type parts. Portraying a senior farm hand is a welcomed change for Nick.
“Carlson is a jack-of-all-trades,” said Nick. “He is one of the older guys who helps the other guys out. He is a rough, rugged kind of guy, but he likes to have his share of fun.”
Nick is no stranger to HITW, having recently appeared as “Martini” in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest. Originally from the professional radio world, he discovered his love for theater after taking some acting and vocal lessons at Manchester Community College. At that time, he had stopped doing radio and was living out his days in the IT world. He wanted to something more creative. In the early 2000s, he decided to get involved with local theater. He auditioned and was cast as the murderer in Cheshire Community Theater’s Black Coffee. Since then, he has worked with Castle Craig Players and Little Theatre of Manchester playing leading and supporting roles.
“I really look for character parts where I can be someone totally different from myself,” he said. “Every show I am in is a unique learning experience.”
He also worked with a slew of directors and producers. He describes Of Mice and Men’s director, Jill Ann Dvorsky as someone who “has an idea of where she wants to go, but she also really values input from others.”
Nick is a CT Community Theater veteran. He is well-known and respected by his fellow actors. “I just enjoy theater,” he said. “There is so much talent. You don’t have to go to New York or New Haven to see a quality production. CT community theater is great!”
Come see Nick in HITW’s first production of the 2015-2016 season, Of Mice & Men. Performances run Fridays & Saturdays from September 25th through October 17th with one Sunday matinee on October 11th. Of Mice & Men is under the direction of Jill Ann Dvorsky. Tickets are $20.00 (general admission) and $15.00 (students and seniors). They can be purchased at the door and online at www.hitw.org.