Meet Shieh'Ron Freeman – Actor

Shieh'Ron Freeman is a theatre major with an emphasis in performance and directing. He currently plays the roles of both Kevin and Albert in “Clybourne Park.” Freeman will graduate in May of 2015.

1. Where are you from originally?

I am from New Orleans originally, but I was raised in the Richmond area.

2. Why did you choose Radford University to pursue your degree interests?

I came to Radford in 2011 for the International Thespian Society* and I fell in love with the theatre department; they treated me so warmly and kindly.

3. What is the most exciting aspect of acting on stage in front of an audience?

The most exciting thing is actually two things:

1. Since theatre is live and anything can happen on stage, it is very exciting to know anything and everything is a surpris
2. The audience is different every night, so they never react the same as the night before.

4. What is the most challenging aspect of being a student actor?

The most challenging thing is the fact that I have classes that aren't theatre based. I struggle to devote enough of my time to them because I give theatre 110%.

5. How would you describe your "Clybourne Park" characters?

I would describe both of my characters as loving and kind men. They love their family more than anything, and they would happily go to any lengths for them. As well, they are very “happy go lucky” men who love life.

6. What is your process for preparing for a play?

My process is very difficult. First, I have to make a back-story for my character unless the play provides me with one. Then, I have to figure out how my character thinks, breathes, lives, eats, loves, and hates. In general, I must become my character. Then, I pound my lines into my head every free chance I get, and I continue getting more familiar with my character and the show overall.

7. Who inspires you as an artist?

A few people inspire me as an artist. James Monroe Iglehart, a heavy-set black man who is playing the Genie in “Aladdin” on Broadway inspires me. Also, my professors Wesley Young and Tommy Iafrate inspire me, as well my loving Grandma who has pushed me thus far, and continues to push me everyday to see that my dreams come true.

8. What has been your favorite role to play so far?

My all time favorite role to play is the one I am playing now. I have never had to do something so uncensored, unrated, or so raw ever. I love every second I'm on stage with my cast mates.

9. Who would you want to act alongside of if you could act on stage or screen with anyone in the world?

If I could act onstage with someone it would have to be Nathan Lane, voice actor for Timon (from “The Lion King”), and James Monroe Iglehart. If it were a T.V. actor, it would be Neil Patrick Harris, in a heartbeat. If it were a big screen actor, I would love to act along side Samuel L. Jackson and Sir Sidney Poitier.

10. What are your plans for after you graduate?

My plans after I graduate are to become a resident director at my graduate school, and gain my masters in theatre for either performance or directing. I would also like to receive singing and voice lessons.

* This refers to the Virginia State Thespian Conference, which is held at varying locations in the Commonwealth year to year. High school students attend a weekend of plays, workshops and lectures.