by amanda marinaccio
Local Bronxite creates own theater company and is current putting on a play by the renowned e.e. cummings.
Elan O’Connor, born and raised in the Pelham Bay region, had a flare for the arts since her first play at age during camp.
Being from the Bronx helped to give O’Connor the attitude and persistence needed to continue on the unpredictable, yet fulfilling, career path of an actor.
“As an actor, you have to know yourself really well and where you’re from is a big part of that – you need solid roots to be able to grow,” reflects O’Connor.
Studying the arts eventually brought her to The University of Southern California, where she was awarded a Deans Scholarship to study Drama.
While in LA, a town known for attracting aspiring actors, directors, and writers, O’Connor realized there was there was an emphasis on film, but a serious lack of theater.
“After college, a few friends and I were disappointed by theater opportunities in L.A. We thought, ‘why wait? Lets just do it.’ And we did,” explains O’Connor regarding the inspiration for The Longest Lunch Theater Company, which has overseen more than ten productions and two festivals.
The company’s members learned hands-on all the tricks and turmoil of theater business, while putting on numerous plays at Stage Theatre Center, founded by Eugene Lonesco.
Eventually the group decided to bring their company back to New York, looking for more freedom and a different vibe.
“Los Angeles is not a theater town. The never ending networking, schmoozing – I just got tired of it. New York is much more diverse, it’s a more balanced existence,” stated O’Connor.
In New York they do not have a specific theater for operations, instead the company puts on places throughout various parts of downtown New York.
The Longest Lunch is putting on a production of HIM by e.e. cummings, the well-known American poet, with O’Connor playing the role of ‘Me.’
“For me, it’s the right play at the right time. It has been a challenge and an honor to work on this play.”
The play is based on Cummings’ own love affair with the mother of his child and former wife, explaining his struggle between love and his bohemian lifestyle.
For more info visit www.longestlunch.com.
