Getting to Know Rayshawn Roberts!

Bio:

A teacher by day, Rayshawn Roberts has been educating students in the Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools System since 2018. Outside of his career, Rayshawn is an avid member of the theater community here in town. His most recent credits include: “Bert” in Mary Poppins, "Donkey" in Shrek! the Musical, and "Squidward" in The Spongebob Musical with Savannah Children's Theatre; "Elder Jay" in the Christians with Savannah Repertory Theatre; and "Brad" in Rocky Horror Show Live with the Bay Street Theatre to name a few! When Rayshawn is not acting, you can usually find him riding his bike or trying to get his friends to do karaoke.

Q&A

Q: A lot of actors have pre-show rituals; do you have anything you need to do before you hit the stage or the show just doesn't feel right?

A: My pre-show ritual typically changes with the show I am in. Whatever it is that I do Opening night, becomes the ritual for that entire run. Whether it's yoga or sipping tea or going for a walk.

Q: You just recently participated in a fantastic run of "Mary Poppins" at the Savannah Children's Theatre. Obviously you're no stranger to working with kids, but were there any moments during this run that stood out to you or felt special?

A: One moment that was really special for the entire cast was when everyone got the first look at their costumes. Everybody was a buzz as they stepped out to show theirs off, but the room erupted when Mary Poppins (played by Camryn Cothran) took the stage. The magic was palpable and I think a defining part of rehearsals. Another special moment for me was learning the 'Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious' dance. Our choreographer, Galen Schneider, had the inspiration to do the choreo from the London run and I practiced relentlessly with my castmates as we would try to do it faster and faster. The first time we all did it together was a really special moment and a testament to our growing endurance.

Q: Tech weeks are always hectic, and I, for one, rely on some snacks to help me keep my energy and sanity. Do you have any go-to snacks on long rehearsal/show days?

A: Some people say that I have the taste-buds of an elderly man and they wouldn't be wrong! During long show days, you will probably see me chomping on a green apple or eating trail mix.

Q: You're already a triple threat, so might make you think outside of the box a little... If you could have any talent, what talent would you want and why?

A: If I could have any talent, it would probably be juggling. I've always thought it looked cool, but could never get by hands/arms to be in the right places!

Q: What is one role or show that you have not had the opportunity to perform in, but is on your bucket list? 

A: One show that I would love to be a part of is Les Misérables; my high school self would melt if I could play Inspector Javert.