The Genius of Woody Guthrie performed by The Amazing Rob Tepper

What do you do for a living?

Actor // Writer // Ditch Digger // One Man Show about the Father of American Folk Music — Woody Guthrie // ‘A NIGHT WITH WOODY GUTHRIE’ located at Sidewalk Studio Theatre, 4150 Riverside Dr., Burbank CA 91505 Reservation line // 323-769-5156 // Director Sal Romeo

What drives you to do what you do? What motivates you?

A friend years ago turned me on to Woody and after reading everything I could get my hands on and listening to all Woody’s material, I knew this was something I had to do. What has sustained the project is a healthy amount of support from my family, friends and mentor Sal Romeo. What keeps me pushing on is not only the timely nature of the beast but also the encouragement of the folk community (mostly in Beacon NY) and positive reactions audiences are expressing after every show.

What was it like when you first started?

Lonely. Difficult. Inspiring. Fun.

When's your next show?

Check with Sidewalk Studio Theatre, 4150 Riverside Dr., Burbank CA 91505 Reservation line // 323-769-5156

What has surprised you most about this endeavor?

The reaction audiences are having to the show. When you’re invested in something for a great length of time, it’s easy to become too close to actually see it anymore. That’s why I’m so thankful to my Director Sal Romeo for helping to keep me honest and in turn, keep the show honest. The audiences have me leaning forward with their reaction when usually it should be the reverse.

What’s the most memorable experience you’ve had while doing this?

That’s a tough one. There have been so many memorable experiences. Playing onstage with Pete Seeger at the Tarry Town Music Hall will forever be tattooed to the inside of my skull. That was a hell of a night. The Grammy Museum down town was good fun. Truly though, and right up there is the kindness I’ve received by the people in every city I’ve been to with the show. And I look forward to more!!

Do you have any exciting plans for the future that you want people to know about?

Yes, but it’s too soon to divulge what said plans are. Needless to say, I look forward to getting on the road with the show when I have the chance. A mobile camper and multiple destinations around the country sound like a good combination to me. Though recently I’ve been approached and asked to possibly travel to Europe with the show. Well see.

Who are some of your business idols and role models? And why?

People who are constantly working and constantly creating substantial material. I guess since it’s a business question I’d have to say most of them fall under the producer title although those guys who invented FLOW HIVE got my attention. Louis C.K. did it pretty well too I guess.

What are your favorite things to do in the neighborhood?

Walk. Hike the secret stairs. Talk. Watch. Relax. Eat.

What are your favorite places to go in the neighborhood?

Griffith Park is in my top five. The guys over at BROKEN ART TATTOO are top notch; I would send anyone there to get work done or even just to have a healthy dose of good laughs and conversation.

What do you love about this neighborhood?

In a city that’s not really a city, more a cluster of separate locations both geographically and in feeling, I like that our neighborhood has a community feel to it. I like that I don’t have to use my car to navigate our streets, businesses, and phenomenal urban park.

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