Right now, if you walk on 42nd Street in the Theatre District you might just run into a giant cock. On the marquee, that is, for the new off-Broadway play Cock, an award-winning play written by English playwright Mike Bartlett that recently made its American debut.
One of the play’s stars is Jason Butler Harner, who in addition to his theatre work has appeared in films (The Changeling) and on television (Alcatraz). In an interview with the Washington Post, Harner talks about the play and his acting career.
Harner praises the emotional content of the show and how an audience member’s personal feelings play into that. He explains, “A friend said it’s like reliving every breakup you’ve caused or endured or counseled on or suffered through. The older you get in the audience, the more you probably have experience with this.”
He also has many clever quips in the play, something he appreciates in the wake of having been in serious roles recently. He says, “I miss getting to be funny. I miss language and I love language so much. This was a no-brainer. And the no-brainer choices are rare. I was looking for a play that reminded me that I am an actor.”
After starring in films, television, and on the stage, Harner is appreciative of all the work he has had but has no plans to rest. He says, “I am blessed to have made my career as an actor for a decade now and I’m grateful for that. It could arguably have gone better in ways and it certainly could have gone worse, but you have to keep fueling the fire.”
Cock is at the Duke on 42nd Street. For ticket info, visit the play’s website. Check out Daily Actor’s review of Cock here!
