If you don't know Tony Sias, it would be surprising, because a single afternoon outing with this krunk Clevelander proves to be an exercise of introductions, when folks that do know him approach to offer kudos on any number of creative endeavors. As a respected actor, director, singer and occasional dancer, Tony Sias has been on every stage in Cleveland and elsewhere. And if Tony's hand is in a production, the end product will be pure gold. Kristin Bly finds out how he does this.

Kristin Bly: What brought you to the Cleveland community?

Tony Sias: I was working on my MFA at Ohio University, and the Cleveland Play House offered me an internship in their lab company. After that, I thought I might head to New York. Right at that time, my father died unexpectedly, and after I went home and processed everything, emotionally it just felt right to stay in Cleveland. Plus, I had a few job opportunities here and it was an offer from the Rap-Art Center that sealed it.

KB: Since then (1993) it's safe to say that you've been no stranger to nearly every theatre company in town and your list of credits as a director / actor / singer / dancer are immense. With all these proverbial irons in the fire, where do you tend to situate yourself in the performing community? Which "role" do you prefer?

TS: I think my greatest strength is as a director, and my perspective is derived from the ranks of being an actor first - the ideology and pedagogy of acting. It's because of this I am able to direct with an actor-friendly approach. I mean there are so many crazy directors that say stupid shit, and people still will just do anything for a role - and I don't believe in that. I understand the collaborative nature of directing and believe that people need to feel nurtured during the process of production.

KB: How does theatre survive against competitors such as television and multi-million dollar movies, and a culture starved for hyper-simulated reality? Is it surviving?

TS: It's surviving - the doors are staying open. It is hard, and it takes support. Theatre is really the base root of all that you mention, but it comes from real human beings - and it's a part of really looking at life. And Cleveland is particularly blessed to have such a diverse range of theatre offerings at the various companies.

KB: Now - aside from a very active presence with theatre companies, you're also a full time administrator for the Cleveland Municipal School District where your list of responsibilities are themselves immense - so, if I could pose the timeless question, "Tony - how do you do it...?"

TS: (laughs) - It is a wealth of compartmentalized work, but it all blends together. Being IN the community is how I do it, because it's all built on these relationships. If you make a commitment to quality work, and come from a place of love in dealing with people, it's amazing the kind of balance that can come to your life. Let your word be your bond.

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