What is your role in Harvey? I play Elwood P. Dowd. He is the calm centre of a world that whirls around him. In his personal philosophy he has learned to accept that the best way to live one’s life is look after those you encounter with genuine kindness. After 40 years of living up to what others expected of him, he has now chosen to restore a sense of balance to his life; to treat others with the kindness and attention they deserve. Elwood now practices how to put away the distractions of the big problems and cares, and to focus on the simple joy of living in the moment, and in pleasant company. The fact that he happens to enjoy sharing his time with a mischievous 6 foot rabbit he see as no impediment, but rather a beneficial distraction. To his credit, Elwood’s simple and pure heart allows him to see Harvey, and to welcome him as a keen observer of human behaviour, and a faithful companion on his journey.
What is your background in theatre? At Walterdale?
Last directed Jake and the Kid at Walterdale in January, 1988.
Founder and Artistic Director of Red Deer’s Prime Stock Theatre for 27 years, Great West Summer Theatre for 5 seasons and BARD on BOWER for 11 seasons.
Has taught post-secondary theatre across the province, including 17 years at Red Deer College (now Polytechnic), and is a certified fight instructor with Fight Directors Canada. Also an actor, Thomas spends his summer acting as a theatre interpreter with Parks Canada in Banff and Jasper.
What brought you out for Harvey? Why did you want to do the show? I met a charming 6 foot tall rabbit on the street corner one day. . . .who could resist?
Why do you think audiences should come see Harvey? To believe in Harvey is to see the goodness in humanity; to discern the sanity amidst the madness that confronts us each day; to share a pleasant time with whoever you’re with, wherever you are at the moment, for as long as they allow. To listen intently, and refrain from undue judgement. To treat all with respect and decency. . . .we could all use a little more careful listening these days, it seems.