New actor shows promise in theater

Valerie Bentson, a 22-year-old Spanish major, is playing the role of Dotty Otley in the Little Theatre production of "Noises Off," opening on May 14 at 8 p.m. and directed by Laurie Woolery. Watching Bentson perform today, one would never guess that she began acting just two years ago.

Q: How did you get started in acting?
A: I always wanted to try it. I thought I might have potential, but I was always too scared to really pursue it.

Two years ago, one of my friends suggested that we take Acting I at Citrus College, so I went for it, thinking it wouldn't be so bad if I were with a friend.
I found acting to be really fun and scary at the same time and was glad to have given it a chance. From there, I did a scene in Jeremy Lewis's directing class, and he was impressed. Later I made my debut performance at Citrus in Lewis's production of "California Suite." This will be my third production here, following my performances in "California Suite" and "You Can't Take it With You."

Q: How have you prepared for your role in
"Noises Off?"
A: A lot of my preparation has come from the learning experience of each rehearsal, and just growing through Laurie's constructive criticism and direction. Before being cast as Dotty, I had imagined myself playing the role, so I would sit down with the script and read the part out loud, experimenting with the voices that I would imagine her using.

Q: What do you like best about the play?
A: Exploring the contrasts between the "bad" actor that my character is and the actual person that I am portraying. I really appreciate the dynamics of this play. I have never done farce before, so it's been a great yet challenging process, learning the significance of big, sharp movements, and how funny it can be.

Q: Is there anyone you look to for inspiration?
A: I don't consider any celebrity to be a source of inspiration or a role model. Celebrities do not have a direct impact on my life. My inspiration comes from one of my close friends, who frees herself of the negativity that society weighs down on people. That brings me positive inspiration to really be thankful for the life I have. My dad is also a great inspiration, just by being the free spirit he is, and his humor.

Q: What do you like to do for recreation?
A: I like to be outside and go crazy, that's always fun. I also enjoy reading, riding my bike, being around people, and being alone.

Q: Would you ever want to try directing or any other aspect of the production process?
A: I would love to work with costumes or costume design.

Q: What prompted you to audition for "Noises Off?"
A: When I read the script, I imagined myself playing Dotty, and I wanted to be in another play. Every director and every production gives me a new learning experience, and I want to learn as much as I can from each experience.
Working with Laurie in itself is a great experience. I really enjoy working with her, and taking her ideas into consideration to grow as an actress."