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Introduction (01-04)
Amy's Head (05-154)
Amy's Résumé
Acknowledgments
Articles
Biography
INSIDE THE HEAD OF AMY MATHENY
Introduction
Amy Matheny
Chicago actor, producer, and professional Gabrielle impersonator
[01] When I first heard about the original Xena Live production a couple years ago, I was skeptical. I did not like musicals. They made me twitch. Nevertheless, I bought my tickets and took my sister who was visiting with me. What I saw was a group of hard working actors who pulled off what one would think as the impossible. They made Xena Live and they did it well. There was action, costumes, and a lot of laughing going on.
[02] A very good and enjoyable show, it stayed with me for a long time. After the real series shoved FRIEND IN NEED down my throat, I was left with non-stop turmoil and feeling empty.
[03] I am so pleased they are doing a part two, because this will help ease some of the pain. The humor from the last one left me in stitches for hours, and the new one might put me in the hospital.
[04] Amy Matheny plays the part of Gabrielle and has the look, facial expressions, and the character down pat. Let us get to know this fun loving talented person who brought back the show we love.
Amy's Head
AMY MURPHY:
[05] Why did you start acting?AMY MATHENY:
[06] I started out as a dancer. All through high school, I danced four nights a week taking ballet, point, and jazz classes. I sang in the church choir. I was very loud. They always tried to get me to blend in with the choir. It was not until high school that I started acting, singing, and dancing in school musicals. I intended to be an attorney when I went to college, since I was also big in debate. However, the acting bug caught on and soon I was performing in shows in college and the professional and community theatres in Memphis, where I was in school. After graduating, I worked in regional theatres around the nation before moving to Chicago.MURPHY::
[07] What ever possessed you to do Xena as a play?MATHENY::
[08] I was a fan of the TV show and thought it would be fantastic to see it onstage. Chicago has a rich tradition of high comedy theatre, and there aren't many roles for women in theatre like those in Xena. I was trained in Shakespeare at the Folger Theatre in [Washington] DC, but women never get to fight. Being a physical actor, I thought that would be fun to create a venue for women fighters. But what Xena fan wouldn't want the opportunity to be saved by Xena? (Of course, I knew I would play Gabrielle.)MURPHY::
[09] What have been the high points of the play?MATHENY::
[10] With Episode One, we had so much fun translating the TV series to the stage. We got to choose all the best parts of the show to highlight. The stage combat is intoxicating! So much fun. But the high point would have to be the fans and audiences! They just loved the show and kept coming back to see it again and again.MURPHY::
[11] What have been the low points?MATHENY::
[12] Physical fatigue and the wear and tear on the body. It is not an easy show to do. I am proud to say, though, that we performed for five months with no injuries, only minor bruises. Also, it is an expensive show to produce. As someone who raised the money for the production, that was always a concern.MURPHY::
[13] Did you want to do the 'part two' so you could ease some of the fans pain after the ending of Xena, the tragic FRIEND IN NEED?MATHENY::
[14] I thought Episode 2 would have happened long before now. Honestly, the intention was to keep writing more episodes after Episode One of Xena Live. Now that the TV show has ended, yes, I think it gives the fans something beyond the conventions and syndication. She will never die, you know.MURPHY::
[15] If you had to do it all over, would you be an actor?MATHENY::
[16] Of course. I also really like producing theatre. Bringing talented people together to create. That turns me on.MURPHY::
[17] Give us a brief day in the life of Amy.MATHENY::
[18] There are no brief days! And no two are the same. I wake up at 9am. I work as a radio host as my "day job". So I record interviews and advertisements, plus I am involved with radio ad sales working with many major accounts, such as Anheuser Busch and Subaru. I am acting in a show right now at About Face Theatre four nights a week, and in pre-production for Xena Live.[19] I have a house in Chicago and my friends call me Martha Vila (for Martha Stewart and Bob Vila) because I like to paint and decorate and fix it up. I talk to my family in Tennessee almost every other day. We are close. And my partner and I try to find as much time as possible with each other and our animals. We have a new puppy coming into our home the week Xena opens: Daisy, a creme colored French Bulldog. I usually go to bed around 1:30am/ 2am.
MURPHY::
[20] Which do you like more, acting or producing?MATHENY::
[21] I like to act and produce in shows simultaneously. I have worn both hats on twelve productions here in Chicago in the past eight years. But I am slowing down a bit.MURPHY::
[22] Do you also write?MATHENY::
[23] I am starting to. I have been working on a new musical for About Face about a young woman's coming of age in the Pentecostal South. Also, working on a stage adaptation of a book.MURPHY::
[24] How do you handle stress?MATHENY::
[25] I don't. I am still trying to learn that. I have a high threshold for pain.MURPHY::
[26] Do fans expect too much from stars?MATHENY::
[27] Are you referring to me? I am not a star. A working actor at times but no star. If you are talking about Lucy Lawless.. They may expect too much. Some do.MURPHY::
[28] Do fans matter?MATHENY::
[29] Of course! When we were writing Episode One we wanted the fans' approval and to write a play that showed we were fans. Our fans are great! So supportive of the theatre company and the other productions the actors have been in since Xena.MURPHY::
[30] How does a celebrity stay grounded without letting all the glitz and glamour get to them?MATHENY::
[31] Like I said, I am not a celebrity. I'll let you know when I am. Though I do love glitz and glamour.
The poster for Episode Two from the Official Xena Live website
MURPHY::
[32] What is your footwear of choice?MATHENY::
[33] Black boots with a big thick high heel.MURPHY::
[34] What opportunity are you most happy you seized?MATHENY::
[35] Xena Live, and my relationship.MURPHY::
[36] What do you think of Shakespeare's work?MATHENY::
[37] I am a devotee. I think he is the rock star of playwrights and the most moving and delicate writer.MURPHY::
[38] Is the glass half full or half empty?MATHENY::
[39] Half full. Or there is a pitcher of water and I just have to pour it to make it half full.MURPHY::
[40] What are your feelings on the events of September 11th?MATHENY::
[41] I was in shock like many Americans. For someone who usually feels in control, I felt I had no control over anything that mattered.MURPHY::
[42] Has it changed you in any way?MATHENY::
[43] I tapped into my need for comedy again. And music. This is why Episode Two was added to our season this year. The need to rejoice in joy and fun and music and heroes again.MURPHY::
[44] Years from now, how would you want to be remembered?MATHENY::
[45] A hard worker, a respected contributor for change and growth, an honest and open soul.MURPHY::
[46] What is your pet peeve?MATHENY::
[47] Laziness.MURPHY::
[48] Who is Amy?MATHENY::
[49] A southern girl from a small town with vivid dreams. But let's have a scotch. There is more.MURPHY::
[50] Do you love the theater?MATHENY::
[51] I love to make theatre.MURPHY::
[52] Have you ventured into the small or big screen yet?MATHENY::
[53] No. I worked as an acting coach on John Grisham's The Client for Brad Renfro's first job. But not in front of the camera.MURPHY::
[54] What is the most sensitive part on your body?MATHENY::
[55] Oh my! And we haven't even had that scotch.MURPHY::
[56] What housework chore do you most detest?MATHENY::
[57] Cooking, but I love laundry.MURPHY::
[58] What do you do on those days when you want to give up?MATHENY::
[59] Drive.MURPHY::
[50] What do you see yourself doing in the future? Any future projects?MATHENY::
[51] I hope to finish this musical in a couple of years.MURPHY::
[52] How do you handle depression?MATHENY::
[53] Therapy and church...prayer.MURPHY::
[54] What advice can you give to future actors?MATHENY::
[55] Understand that it is a business. You are the product. And everyone should want the product.MURPHY::
[56] What attracts you more to a mate? Looks, or a sense of humor?MATHENY::
[57] Integrity. And warm eyes and heart. Intelligence. And looks don't hurt.MURPHY::
[58] What does the word 'family' mean to you?MATHENY::
[59] Everything. It is my rock.MURPHY::
[60] What does the word 'friend' mean to you?MATHENY::
[61] Loyalty and fun.MURPHY::
[62] What are your favorite kinds of movies? Horror, comedy, or romance?MATHENY::
[63] Oh I love films! But in my top five are Tootsie and Aliens. Enough diversity for you?MURPHY::
[64] Have you worked on something that made you ask, 'Why am I doing this?'MATHENY::
[65] Oh sure. Peter Pan...what was I thinking?MURPHY::
[66] What are your dreams? Hopes? Wishes?MATHENY::
[67] My dreams are wild! I love to sleep. Too many to tell you.MURPHY::
[68] Whom do you trust?MATHENY::
[69] My partner, my parents, my close friends, God. In my past, I have been trusting to a fault. I want to trust most people.MURPHY::
[70] What is the greatest wish you have for your child?MATHENY::
[71] To live life fully and to find love and passion in their life.MURPHY::
[72] The way the world is, are you afraid to bring a child into it?MATHENY::
[73] No, not at all. Though, I would like to adopt.MURPHY::
[74] What would you say every actor needs?MATHENY::
[75] To be hungry and fearless and open.
Elizabeth Laidlaw plays Xena
Check out her head by clicking here
MURPHY::
[76] Do you believe in prayer?MATHENY::
[77] It is the basis of my life. What or whomever you pray to, I think it is an important source of strength.MURPHY::
[78] Who would you say is the best person you have worked with?MATHENY::
[79] Too many to name. I am surrounded by incredible talent so often. Especially with Xena Live! Scott Ferguson, the director of both Episodes, is a dream. We finish each other's sentences. He gets it! The staff at About Face Theatre, the design and creative team could not be more of a family, and who could ask for a better Xena than Elizabeth Laidlaw! I adore her and we are very dear friends.MURPHY::
[80] Who was the worst?MATHENY::
[81] I will get sued. But there is one (years ago, early in my career)...but not from the Xena family. Not a bad egg in the bunch.MURPHY::
[82] What makes your best friend you best friend?MATHENY::
[83] Many years together.MURPHY::
[84] From what you have seen, can working in Sci-Fi be a death sentence on a career?MATHENY::
[85] I don't think so. Maybe if you start there. But for Patrick Stewart, it has appeared to have enhanced his stage career.MURPHY::
[86] What is the most romantic thing anyone has done for you?MATHENY::
[87] Held my hand when I need strength.MURPHY::
[88] What theme would you like to tackle in your next work?MATHENY::
[89] The power of the human spirit... but that is always the theme.MURPHY::
[90] What was the last thing that made you smile recently?MATHENY::
[91] My dog, Diablo, but you have to see his face. Have you ever seen a French Bulldog?MURPHY::
[92] What made you angry?MATHENY::
[93] The phone constantly ringing during dinner.MURPHY::
[94] You now have absolute authority over the world. Omnipotent in all areas. What is your first move?MATHENY::
[95] Remove intolerance and hatred.MURPHY::
[96] How would you categorize your best acting?MATHENY::
[97] Don't know how to do that.MURPHY::
[98] What stupid thing did you do as a teen?MATHENY::
[99] I was a good kid. Maybe the stupidest thing I did was be so good. Now as an adult, I don't have the excuse of being young and stupid.MURPHY::
[100] What, if anything, can stop you from acting?MATHENY::
[101] Lack of passion in a project. And the need to travel. I have huge wanderlust.MURPHY::
[102] In your opinion, do you fit you astrological sign?MATHENY::
[103] Yep. A true Libra with my moon in Cancer and lots of Scorpio in my chart. That's me. Love it or leave it.MURPHY::
[104] What to you is the worst feeling in the world?MATHENY::
[105] Not being prepared.MURPHY::
[106] The best feeling in the world?MATHENY::
[107] Accomplishment.MURPHY::
[108] Favorite song of the moment?MATHENY::
[109] Rufus Wainwright, "Poses", and the entire Steve Nicks Shangrai La CD and Pink. Those are in my car.MURPHY::
[110] What is the first thing you think of in the morning?MATHENY::
[111] Can I sleep ten more minutes?MURPHY::
[112] Is there one part of the acting process where you usually get stuck?MATHENY::
[113] No, not really. But there is usually one part of the script that is scary or uncomfortable for me. Once I understand it, I am ready.MURPHY::
[114] Does the best acting flow for you, or does it come from retakes?MATHENY::
[115] I like theatre because it is linear, unlike film. And it's live. No doing it over.MURPHY::
[116] Which part of acting do you enjoy most and why?MATHENY::
[117] Rehearsals. It is playtime for grown ups and it can be so liberating.MURPHY::
[118] When someone walks into your bedroom, what are the first five things that they are likely to notice?MATHENY::
[119] The dog on the bed, a vivid painting from Haiti, an enormous TV, king size bed, lots of books on the bedside table I am reading all at once.MURPHY::
[120] Do you feel in control of your acting, or do your inspiration or characters carry you away?MATHENY::
[121] Oh I use a lot of control...that is good sometimes because it is consistent, but bad sometimes if I get in a rut.MURPHY::
[122] If you consider yourself to have a muse, what exactly do you mean?MATHENY::
[123] I have an image in my head, and feeling that I want from my body when acting. That ideal would be a muse I guess.MURPHY::
[124] Tell the truth - are you your favorite actor, or in your own top five?MATHENY::
[125] No...no...MURPHY::
[126] Why?MATHENY::
[127] I don't get to enjoy myself as an audience member. I appreciate the work of Julianne Moore, Helen Mirren, Meryl Streep, (much more seasoned and accomplished artists than I am) and for comedy, Megan Mullally just breaks me up on Will and Grace.MURPHY::
[128] Would the world be a better place if women ran it or would it be the same?MATHENY::
[129] Who knows? Wouldn't it be great to see?MURPHY::
[130] Do you feel the gay community clings to any role model they can get? If so, is that too much pressure for the star?MATHENY::
[131] I think that Gay and Lesbian people look for images to identify with since most images in film, TV, and theatre are straight. It is empowering to see those Gay and Lesbian images. It creates confidence and security in one's experience and validation. I don't believe however in making idols out of gay celebrities. They are human and their "golden relationships" can break up. They are trying to figure it out just like everyone else. For an actor playing a gay character, I think it is fantastic when they acknowledge the power that their representation of a gay role has on the community, because it is still always groundbreaking.MURPHY::
[132] Will there be a Xena Live Three?MATHENY::
[133] Who knows?
Gregory Thomas Isaac plays Ares
MURPHY::
[134] How hard is it to rehearse for a live role?MATHENY::
[135] There are no stunt doubles. So if you can't learn the trick, you can't do it.MURPHY::
[136] Are the stunts a b*tch to do?MATHENY::
[137] No. We rehearse the choreography until we are totally confident. We walk through every fight in warm up before each show. We have one of the nation's Fight Masters, David Woolley, choreographing the fights for the show. He staged all of Episode One. He is an amazing talent and makes sure that we are all safe.MURPHY::
[138] How long do you have to rehearse them?MATHENY::
[139] Weeks, months, lots of hours.MURPHY::
[140] Did someone teach you how to use the weapons?MATHENY::
[141] David Woolley. Now we are working with Sais. Last show, of course, I fought with Quarterstaff.MURPHY::
[142] Do you have butterflies before each show?MATHENY::
[143] No. I get very pumped up with this show. It feels like an amusement park ride. But you have to remember to breathe, especially in Episode Two since we are fighting and singing.MURPHY::
[144] God forbid someone misses a line, but if someone does, do you just work it through?MATHENY::
[145] Oh sure. These are talented people onstage. A lot can go wrong, and has, but you just work on through it. Last Episode in one performance, Xena's wig came off...we made a bit out of it and the audience had a great laugh. That's why you go to theatre!MURPHY::
[146] What would you say was the funniest moment you have had working on this play?MATHENY::
[147] The wig coming off was pretty d*mn funny!MURPHY::
[148] If God gave you the ability to curse one disease, what would it be and why?MATHENY::
[149] Only one?MURPHY::
[150] What is your favorite spot where you live now?MATHENY::
[151] My deck in the summer.MURPHY::
[152] What questions should I have asked and answer it please?MATHENY::
[153] Well just to tell you about Episode Two: Xena Live! The Musical. We have some of the TV shows regular characters (Xena and Gabrielle, of course) Ares, Aphrodite, and Alti this time around. Plus some of our own additions, like Gabrielle's new sidekick, Synonymous, and Xena's guardian angel, Gaybriel. We, of course, bring Xena back, but Gabrielle has gone on with her life.
[154] It is a musical so expect big original numbers and some familiar pop tunes, lots of fights, and bigger comedy than Episode One.
Amy's Résumé
Xena Live Site: http://www.xenalive.com/. Episode Two ends its run June 2, 2002.
Amy Matheny is an actor and producer in Chicago. She is the Producing Director of Greasy Joan & Co, a classical theatre company that produces Shakespeare, literary adaptations, and classic works starting with the Greeks. She is the conceiver of Xena Live! and also played the role of Gabrielle in both productions.
You can read another Whoosh! interview with Ms. Matheny by clicking here (http://www.whoosh.org/issue39/imatheny1.html)
Acknowledgments
Thanks to Kamouraskan for the beta.
Articles
L. J. Maas and Murphy Wilson [Amy Murphy]. One Step Beyond ... Uber, That Is. WHOOSH #49 (October 2000)
The "Inside the Head of…" series in Whoosh issues #58, 61-66, 68-
Biography
Amy Murphy
Amy Murphy resides in Indiana, and is an avid reader of Xena: Warrior Princess Fan Fiction. If it exists in the Xenaverse, chances are she's read it! Murphy has also tried her hand at writing fan fiction, turning out two very nice pieces that reside on a couple of web sites throughout the Xenaverse.
Favorite episode: IS THERE A DOCTOR IN THE HOUSE
Favorite line: "I have many skills" (various episodes)
First episode seen: THE TITANS (07/107)
Least favorite episode: LYRE, LYRE HEARTS ON FIRE (100/510)
