Many years ago, I first met and interviewed Toronto actor Hannah Levinson alongside her two co-stars who all played the title role in an incredibly successful Mirvish production of Matilda, which subsequently went on tour.
Fast forward a half-dozen years and Levinson is now a rising star not just on the stage but in film and TV as well, and known for her impressive talent and dedication to her craft. At just 16 years old, she has already made a significant mark in both live theatre and television. Currently, she is taking on a challenging role in the Canadian premiere of Appropriate a gripping family drama set in Arkansas.
Levinson recently shared her thoughts on the play and her career in an interview, shedding light on her experiences and aspirations.
A Unique Theatre Experience
Appropriate written by Brendan Jacob Jenkins and directed by Ted Dykstra, explores the intricacies of family dynamics, history, and secrets. The play revolves around the Lafayette family, who reunite at their deteriorating Arkansas plantation home following the death of their patriarch. As they sift through a lifetime of possessions, they uncover unsettling photos related to the Ku Klux Klan and lynchings connected to the property.
Levinson plays the role of Cassidy, the inquisitive 13-year-old daughter of one of the family members. Her character’s curiosity drives her to delve into the history and secrets concealed within the family’s photo album.
“What really drew me to her was her natural curiosity,” Levinson says. “She asked so many questions about her family, and all the secrets that her parents had been keeping from her. So it’s really fun to play with her story and really figure out what she’s trying to define and come to the role every night with that sense of urgency.”
Challenges and Responsibilities as an Actor
Portraying a role in a play as intense and emotionally charged as Appropriate comes with its unique set of challenges. Levinson mentioned the need to handle the disturbing images depicted in the play with sensitivity and respect. The cast must confront real photos of lynchings and Klan members, and Levinson emphasizes the importance of honoring the individuals behind these images, acknowledging the gravity of their stories.
Furthermore, Levinson’s character, Cassidy, must maintain a facade of indifference to these images, even though they are profoundly disturbing. This challenge lies in suppressing her own emotional reactions as she becomes desensitized to the content, mirroring Cassidy’s character.
Audience Impact and Self-Reflection
Levinson believes that Appropriate will have a profound impact on its audience, with each viewer interpreting the play differently. The diverse range of characters in the play allows audience members to connect with various aspects of the story, fostering self-reflection. Levinson hopes that the play will prompt viewers to consider their own actions and how their past experiences have shaped their identities.
The intimate setting of the Coal Mine Theatre, where the play is being staged, adds an extra layer of intensity to the experience. The proximity of the audience allows for a heightened sense of connection between actors and viewers, making each performance unique.
“It’s really exciting to be in such an intimate space, because every reaction that the audience has, you can really feel it as an actor,” Levinson says. “So every performance is going to be so different, depending on who’s in the audience and how they interpret the show. Everything feels really raw and personal.”
Balancing Theatre and TV
Levinson has an impressive resume that includes both live theatre and television. She has been a part of the Apple TV show Ghostwriter, which might gain popularity during the Halloween season. Levinson shared her gratitude for being part of the show, highlighting its focus on family and storytelling, which resonates with her.
“Ghostwriter was my first big opportunity in the film and television world, and I was so excited. It was with a wonderful company called Sinking Ship Entertainment, who created such an inviting space for little 12-year-old me to come in and play,” she says. “And the story of Ghostwriter is so incredible. It’s quite a special one because it’s all around books. So even though it’s a TV show, every episode is surrounding different book characters. It’s a really magical story.”
When asked about her preferences between live theatre and TV, Levinson expressed her love for the rehearsal process in theatre, where every day brings new discoveries about her character and the story. She acknowledges the unique thrill of live theatre and how it continually challenges her as an actor.
A Promising Future
As Levinson navigates her career, she remains open to new artistic endeavors. Currently in Grade 12, she is applying to universities while embracing the opportunities that come her way. Her supportive family and her love for artistic expression fuel her journey, and she is excited to see where it leads.
Appropriate runs at the Coal Mine Theatre until Oct. 15. For ticket and show information go to the theatre website here.