Christian Jules LeBlanc reveals starring in The Zoo Story opposite Matt de Rogatis
b>Christian Jules LeBlanc Breaks Ground for “The Zoo Story”
Three-time Emmy award‑winning actor Christian Jules LeBlanc has taken the spotlight for a brand‑new performance of Edward Albee’s play “The Zoo Story.” The star‑studded production pairs LeBlanc with fellow stage veteran Matt de Rogatis, both originally reunited on the television set for “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.”
Stage Details and Artistic Vision
Directorial vision for the event comes from Theo Devaney, who brings a fresh approach to the 1958 classic. The limited run will take place at the Jersey Shore Arts Center in Asbury Park from September 4th through September 6th, a concise three‑night series that promises equal parts drama and replay value.
Key Cast Roles
- Christian Jules LeBlanc as Peter
- Matt de Rogatis as Jerry
- Matt de Rogatis also serves as creative director and producer for the project, providing dual creative leadership.
For enthusiasts of contemporary and classic theater alike, the season offers a chance to witness LaBlanc’s award‑winning talent in an endlessly replayable, one‑act journey that honors Edward Albee’s first brush with the stage. The brief, triple‑night window beckons players and audiences to experience the heart of a paradigm‑shifting play, captured in a fresh and unavoidable theater moment.
Matt de Rogatis: A Glimpse Behind the Lens
Matt de Rogatis stands at the intersection of creativity and technical mastery. His work, transcending conventional boundaries, reflects a deep dedication to visual storytelling.
Key Highlights
- Innovative Vision: Matt’s projects often push the limits of narrative art.
- Collaborative Spirit: His approach emphasizes team synergy over solitary effort.
- Photo Credit: The stunning images accompanying his portfolio are credited to Chris Loupos.
Behind the Scenes
Matt’s process combines meticulous research with an intuitive visual language. Every shot he captures echoes his commitment to originality.
Future Endeavors
Looking ahead, Matt de Rogatis plans to launch a series of immersive projects that will redefine audience expectations.
‘The Zoo Story’
LeBlanc Discusses “The Zoo Story”
During the production of The Zoo Story, LeBlanc shared his enthusiasm for the piece, noting that it was a collaboration that Matt contributed to the set. LeBlanc highlighted his admiration for Edward Albee, especially the play “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” which he cites as Albee’s most prominent work.
Key Points from LeBlanc
- Matt’s Character Creation Mastery: LeBlanc praised Matt’s skill in developing new characters for the play.
- Albee’s Influence: LeBlanc expressed a strong fan connection to Albee, referencing his major work.
Behind the Scenes
LeBlanc emphasized that the collaboration involved Matt’s contributions to the set, noting how the interactive environment involved the creation of fresh characters, a process that Matt excelled at.
Playing Peter in ‘The Zoo Story’
Peter’s Portrayer: LeBlanc’s Take on a Complex Role
When LeBlanc mentioned playing Peter, he said, “It’s a very interesting character, and I’m aware that when Albee first wrote this, he considered Peter underdeveloped.” The interview tweaked his subtitle to “I’ll be underdeveloped, that would be my subtitle.”
Why He Finds Peter Challenging
LeBlanc admitted, “Actually, it’s a really challenging character for me.” The rehearsal schedule is short, yet he remains early in the process.
Finding the Right Balance on Stage
He added that “the theater still allows time to discover the character and truly conduct an actor’s work.” When the pace accelerates, he feels “I’m doing a technician’s work.”
- LeBlanc is pioneering Peter’s journey
- Theatrical play offers ample exploration time
- Technical work is visibly distinguishable on the stage
The 2024 Tennessee Williams Festival
LeBlanc Embraces the Revival of Tennessee Williams at the 2024 Festival
During the 2024 Tennessee Williams Festival, director LeBlanc highlighted how the event mirrors classic theatre traditions, especially through “town‑out‑of‑town” tryouts that breathe fresh life into Off‑Broadway productions.
Why the Festival Matters
- Process Insight – LeBlanc praised the festival’s structured rehearsal system, noting it cultivates sustainable development for new productions.
- Collaborative Energy – He emphasized the joyful partnership between the audience and the creative team.
- Historic Moments – LeBlanc recalled a memorable second‑act performance of “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof,” which revived the play with renewed vigor.
“Second Act” Experiences
LeBlanc shared that exploring the second act with colleague Matt was a highlight, especially at New Orleans, his hometown. He likened the setting to his New Jersey roots, underlining the festival’s role as a cultural bridge.
Key Takeaways on Production
LeBlanc stressed the unparalleled support of producers, whose dedication ensures the festival’s success. He described the festival’s ambiance—without setbacks—as a testament to the collective effort of the production team.
Future Plans
Looking ahead, LeBlanc announced plans to bring “Zoo Story” to New Jersey on a tighter schedule, promising a vibrant live‑theatre experience that aligns with the festival’s legacy.
Closing thoughts on ‘The Zoo Story’
Smith Unpacks “Zoo Story” Without Over‑Analysis
Why the Play Deserves Chapter‑by‑Chapter Appreciation
LeBlanc at the event cautioned against obsessing over every meaning. “I don’t like to overthink or over‑analyze it,” he explained. Instead, he urged the audience to value the author’s intent and to respect Tennessee Williams’ worth.
Growing Up in the Same Locale Gives a Unique Lens
- LeBlanc grew up in the same area and knows the local accents.
- He considers Williams akin to a Shakespeare of the Midwest.
- That familiarity produces a natural comfort for interpreting the play.
Playwrights as a Road Map: Shakespeare, Williams, Albee
LeBlanc advised that when tackling works by Shakespeare, Williams, or Edward Albee, the best piece of advice he ever received is the power of Albee’s approach to bring the actors fully into the moment.
Let Albee Guide Your Performance
- Stop focusing on other distractions.
- Let Albee’s voice control the scene.
- The two characters penned by Albee create an intense dynamic—this fire fuels the clash.
Minimal Over‑Thinking, Maximum Human Interaction
LeBlanc reminded the crowd that the real fun arrives when Peter and Jerry face one another. “Just don’t overthink it,” the actor underscored. “The thrilling human encounter will still happen.”
Prepare for a Heated Moment Tonight
When Peter and Jerry meet, LeBlanc teased the audience that it will be a “hot time in the old town tonight.” The urge to run into the characters will create a moment of pure drama, built upon an author of incredible skill.
LeBlanc remembers Eileen Fulton of ‘As the World Turns’
LeBlanc Pays Tribute to Eileen Fulton
Christian Jules LeBlanc reflected on the beloved actress Eileen Fulton, who departed on July 14 at 91.
Key Moments
- First Mother on Screen: “Eileen Fulton was the first woman to play my mother ever,” LeBlanc said.
- Kindness and Giving: “Eileen was the diva of ‘As the World Turns,’ but she was so kind to me and a very giving actress.”
- Missing Legacy: “She will be missed.”
Explore More
To learn more about The Zoo Story, visit the official Ruth Stage website.
For additional insights on Christian Jules LeBlanc, follow him on Instagram.
