In Conversation with Kalina Lauer

This may, Producer, director, and playwright Kalina Lauer brings Bayou Bart to the Theatre Works stage. In this week's backstage blog we chat about world building, inspirations and the Bayou Bart team.

Q: What was the inspiration behind creating Bayou Bart?

My inspiration stemmed from a Production Design project I was working on. I had created this gorgeous green pinstriped 1800-style costume and had thought, "Now, what would an alligator look like in it". So I began searching where alligators live, what the different breeds were and what other creatures typically reside with them and immediately, ideas began flying around.

Q: What drew you to the Southern world of the 1800s?

A few things had drawn me to the Southern World of the 1800s: history, fashion, architecture and landscape. The landscape struck a chord in me particularly, and it was from images of murky swamps, slumped decayed trees and thick grasslands that I could create this little world I could so clearly see in my mind.

Q: What are some of the key themes explored in this work?

The key theme of Bayou Bart is home. The narrative explores different ideas of what home is for each character and how impactful it is to them. Other themes that the narrative explores include animal cruelty, identity, courage and perseverance.

Q: Can you tell us a bit about the other creatives working on Bayou Bart?

We have an outstanding team working on this season of Bayou Bart. Everyone is such a unique artist, and I'm so grateful to be working with such talent. Our team is honest, collaborative, and always ready to kick off the day! It's been an absolute pleasure watching this story come to life, and I have our creative team to thank for that.

Q: If you could invite anyone to the show, who would it be?

I would straight up invite my younger self. Their mind would absolutely love this world we created.

Q: What advice would you give to emerging artists interested in creating their own work?

If opportunity doesn't knock, build a door.