Time in Greater OC: 10+ Years

Neighborhood: Huntington Beach

Hometown: Cincinnati, OH

What are you currently working on?

Always too many things. I'm revising a one-act play which had its first virtual table read via the OC Playwrights Alliance, finishing a short film I shot last year, preparing another to shoot once conditions become safe, and continuing my voice-acting work from the glamorous confines of my bedroom closet "recording booth".

What's been inspiring you recently?

The generosity, imagination, and indomitable spirit of our arts community. This is an unprecedented disaster with tragic effects still accumulating, but people are showing such resilience and optimism through it all

Tell us a story from your childhood that illuminates who you are as an artist.

When I was a kid, I wrote a letter to the Disney Channel, requesting they consider turning my favorite book series into a TV show. They actually sent me a reply on official stationary saying they would send my request to the Programming Department. Then I wrote to them again, suggesting I could play one of the leads. They didn't respond to that.

Who are or were your theatrical heroes?

My heroes, who are too many to name, are the people who have helped me along the way because that, to them, is what theater is about. The ones who taught me, guided me, took chances on me. I try to do the same for others to honor their example.

What kind of theatre excites you?

Something that feels immediate, alive, joyful. Theatre shouldn't be "sit back and relax" to me, I want something to shake me into the present, that makes me part of the ride.

What's the craziest thing you have ever needed to do for theatre?

I spent six months not shaving to play the Apothecary in "Romeo & Juliet". The Apothecary has four lines.

Outside of a theatre, what's your favorite hot spot in Orange County?

Downtown Santa Ana. Any day or night of the week, I can go there with no plan and know I'll have a great time.

What surprises you the most about your role in the theatre community?

To be honest, that I even have a role! The first time someone recognized me from a part I'd played, the first time someone recognized my name before they'd met me, the first time I was told that a cast heard I was in the audience that night and was excited to know about it...I'm still amazed by all of it. This community welcomed me with such love and trust and enthusiasm so quickly, it's been years now but it still wows me.

What advice do you have for theatre artists just starting out in Orange County?

The right collaborators and companies are out there; keep exploring and find them. Everyone in the community wants people who are eager to contribute; there's too much opportunity out there for you to spend your energy and passion somewhere where it's not valued.

Go ahead, promote your things...

Start at www.nicholasthurkettle.com, you can follow me on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Vimeo as @NThurkettle. If you love a good podcast, add Earbud Theater and Brick Moon Fiction to your subscriptions. I've also got three books published, order them from your favorite indie bookstore!