Whatcha Doin?
Stark and Wesner are compelling presences, defying the inherent limitations of webinar acting, with
bright and engaging but wholly natural styles.
Given Zoom’s challenges, the performer has to “pop” beyond a gauzy digital haze … but not *too* much. Not quite film, not quite stage, effective characterization has to break through the uncanny valley, remaining humanistic, yet not becoming flat. Stark and Wesner both excel, building a dynamic relationship in a brisk 20 minutes that is compelling, believable, poignant, and deeply affecting. To capture the ephemeral spark of unfolding friendship is tricky business on stage or screen, so
it is a rare, almost voyeuristic thrill to watch Stark and Wesner’s nuanced work here.
Whatcha Doin?
Kate Stark expertly portrays the cynicism and disillusionment
that came with Marnie’s sudden childhood stardom, while also showing us the reasons she became popular, alternating during several different animated character voices during one short sequence of the play. We see her simultaneously flattered by Raven’s excitement, and also tired of it.
Kate Stark as Nellie Bly in Nellie Bly: A Menace to Propriety.
Nellie Bly: A Menace to Propriety
Stark’s delivery as Bly is forthright, an appropriate portrait of this brave woman.
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum
Choreographer Kate Stark’s talent is evident in the gaggle of courtesans that make up “The House of Marcus Lycus.”
Kate Stark as Ethel in Footloose.
Footloose
Ren’s mom, Ethel, played by Kate Stark, who supports her son through his trials and tribulations, is a superb actress and also has a lovely voice. Both Cordes’ and Stark’s
performances rival any Hollywood actor.
On the Town
Kate Stark as Ivy Smith does
A beautiful & surprisingly heart-rending
job on the ballet “Presentation of Miss Turnstiles”... The entire cast is vivacious and tireless in this coruscating production.
— Nathan Top, League of Cincinnati Theatres
On the Town
… Ivy Smith played delectably by Kate Stark…
The real star here is the dancing which is primarily ballet but also includes the conga and other nightclub dances. Each of the principal actors are accomplished dancers (many of them teach)… Best singing voices were Kate Stark, Kali Marsh and Anna Brown.
Kate Stark (left) as Ivy Smith in On the Town.