Chirag Naik is a Canadian actor who can be seen as Lorenzo in Shakespeare’s timeless drama Merchant of Venice, currently playing at Bard on the Beach. Director Nigel Shawn Williams weaves this not-to-be-missed classic tale of revenge in present day Venice with an exceptionally talented cast and crew; together they bring to life some of Shakespeare's most dramatic scenes and dialogues on stage.
In this exclusive Q&A, Chirag discusses Bard on the Beach festival and how this event sets impetus to arts and theatre activities in Vancouver.
1. When did your fascination with acting begin?
As long as I can remember I loved acting. There was never anything else I wanted to do. I used to do impressions of Jim Carrey doing impressions of Clint Eastwood. Between my two siblings and myself, I was always the most energetic one. Thankfully, I think my parents knew what kind of weirdo they were raising. I suppose if I had to choose a moment it might be when I started going to summer drama camps at Calgary Young People’s Theatre.
2. Do you the remember the first play or performance that really shook you?
I remember watching shows growing up and always being so impressed by the calibre of professional work. But it wasn’t until I left Canada and watched shows elsewhere that I was struck by how different it could be. I watched a show called Bombay Dreams in London and I was absolutely stunned by the visuals, magical colors and beautiful music and dancing. Another show that changed my perception of theatre was a show I watched at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival called Roadkill which was a site-specific show about sex-trafficking taking place in a London apartment.
3. What would you describe as the most defining point in your career so far?
Definitely attending Studio 58. Not only did it give me extraordinary training and handle on the work it gave me access to networks which have allowed me to stay working.
4. What is your research process like before entering the skin of the character?
It all depends on the show. Some shows require you to go out and get into the environment of the character so you can witness people in their element. Other shows allow you the ability to draw from your own experiences more handily. Lots of talks with those who may have experiences that can relate with the character. But most importantly, it is about dissecting the text. What clues can be pulled about the character in the way that they speak, how are they treating other characters in the show, and what are they motivated by?
5. How important do you consider Bard on the Beach to be for nurturing a platform for theatre practitioners?
They are a solid foundation of Vancouver theatre. And they are only establishing themselves more throughout the country. It’s amazing how much has been created in its lifespan and the fact that they are able to bring in so many talented artists from across the country, it really helps support the health of theatre nationwide. Not only that but it is a key part of the Vancouver theatre ecology in that it offers so much to youth with programs like Young Shakespeareans and Riotous Youth. And in recent years they’ve reached out to offer actors of all levels classes regarding voice and text work.
6. What is unique about Bard on the Beach? How do you identify yourself with it?
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again… Bard on the Beach is a family. All the way from the actors/designers/directors to the site crew and volunteers, there is such warmth and positivity that emanates from the people involved. It’s infectious and beautiful. Is it the outdoors? Is it the fresh Vancouver air? Whatever it is, I’m all about it.
7. Which one of Shakespeare’s characters would you like to play in the future?
There’s too many to say… but a few of the notable ones include Prince Hal in King Henry IV, Marc Antony in Julius Caesar, Edgar in King Lear, and Hamlet.
8. What is the biggest threat to theatre today?
While theatre is certainly a part of the entertainment industry… it’s also a key contributor to cultural identity. Apathy for the arts in general could pose as a serious disservice to the future image of being “Canadian”, and ultimately, being human.
9. What advice would you give a student who is considering becoming a theatre director?
Find a show you want to direct and that you are passionate about… do it. There’s too much talk that happens. Just go out there and do it. You will get better by practicing. Surround yourself with smart collaborators who will challenge your thoughts and ideas to make your project better. Remember that every element in your show holds great importance and you need an entire team to bring everything together. And finally… ask yourself in detail why this show needs to be told and what do you have to say about it.
Chirag can also be seen playing Speed in Two Merchants of Verona that goes on stage July 13.
For a full list of shows playing at Bard on the Beach, visit: https://bardonthebeach.org/
