WHAT DOES THE WOLF SAY?
Today we’re huffing and puffing with Anderson Lawfer, director of “The Wolf at the Door” by Jessica Wright Buha for Deathscribe 2014. Anderson is the Artistic Director of Strawdog’s Hugen Hall, where he recently adapted and directed Fail-Safe and Pontypool. He has also directed a radio play based on the stories of Ben Hecht called “1,001 Afternoons In Chicago,” and hosts radio show “The Game Show Show and Stuff” on Tuesday nights on 88.7 WLUW! We’ll be talking about hindsight, instant gratification, and What Scares Him.
How did you get into horror?
My mom would never let me watch it. When I was a young kid I stole a vhs tape from my neighbor’s house that had Candyman, Shocker, and The Serpent and the Rainbow on it and I watched it over and over and over again until I knew every line in those movies. It felt dangerous and sort of gross and I loved it.
What excites you most about directing horror, compared to other genres?
There are very clear motivations in horror. Horror is usually more about excitement and instant gratification, and instant gratification is my jam.
What in this script resonated most with you?
It sort of feels like a blank canvas. Jessica didn’t bleed her blood all over it. There was lots of space for interpretation.
What do you consider the biggest challenge in directing for “radio,” compared to traditional theatre?
You basically remove an entire sense for the audience. Everything else needs to feel more rich and textured and sexy and crisp.
What sound would you most like to see/hear performed in a Deathscribe piece?
I love the sound of shoes on the street. Is anyone using the sound of shoes on the street in this? I hope they do.
And they’re as excited as you are!
What scares you?
Intruders, viruses and being held captive.
We’re sure to find Anderson’s work captivating when we see “The Wolf at the Door” at Deathscribe 2014, December 1st at the Mayne Stage Theatre!