In our "Meet The Writers" series, we're learning more about the participants of the CMTWC Writers Workshop. The Vancouver Writers Workshop meets every two weeks where, under the guidance of Daniel Maté, writers learn and practice the craft of composition and lyric-writing.
What was your introduction to the theatre?
I was fortunate to meet a high school Drama teacher by the name of Betty Keller. She mounted some very ambitious productions and I was cast in several including The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui and Waiting for Godot along with Can Can and Deadwood Dick.
When was the moment you decided to write for the theatre?
I was interested in acting in a sketch comedy show at the Arts Club. They were awash in actors and short on scripts. I realized I could get onstage if I provided material. I eventually came to like the writing more than the performing.
Whose work do you admire and why?
I love the work of Matt Parker and Trey Stone because I love satire and social commentary. On the other hand I love Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber because Jesus Christ Superstar.
How do you like to write? What is your process? Where do you find inspiration?
I like to have some parameters and begin with a collection of salient words and rhymes for them. Then I scribble on paper and finally type.
What do you want to see more of on stage?
Comedy.
If you had to pick one musical cast recording to be your "desert island record" which would it be?
Little Shop of Horrors.
Complete this sentence: "I write because...”
I have to.
What's a tip you have about collaboration?
Do it in person.
Why did you join the Writers Workshop?
In hopes of meeting like-minded individuals with musical chops.
What is your favourite thing about the Writers Workshop?
That is has taken me kicking and screaming out of my comfort zone and exposed me to some truly gifted poets.
Reed wrote and performed stand up comedy and several plays including his most successful, B Average (a musical about passing), before going on strike and taking up Real Estate. B Average was a collaboration with composer Avi Gross. It is the touching story of a school where lesbians teach gay men how to act straight. Although his demands have not been met he is now ready to re enter the musical theatre workforce. He is currently working on an updated remount of B Average and his cabaret show The Hairy Palms Apartment Hotel.