James McMenamin
James McMenamin in Our Town. (Photo: Carol Rosegg)
This week we put up-and-coming stage favorite James McMenamin on the couch. James has been consistently wowing and moving audiences as George in the much-raved about production of Our Town at the Barrow Street Theatre.
For more information on this record-breaking, landmark production, or to buy tickets, visit www.ourtownoffbroadway.com.
Q: What do you consider to be your best asset?
A: I have a 1966 Brooks Robinson card. It’s pretty sweet. He won the MVP in 65 I think.
Q: What was your proudest moment?
A: I don’t know. That’s a tough one. I was pretty pumped to pass chemistry in college.
Q: What is your favorite drink?
A: I’m a red wine guy.
Q: What is your favorite food?
A: I love potato chips. I try not to eat too many though.
Q: What is your favorite condiment?
A: Mayonnaise, but I also try not to eat too much of that.
Q: What is your current obsession?
A: I’ve been reading Captain and Commander novels…I’m on book nine.
Q: If you could give up one of your vices, what would it be?
A: I would really like to stop using words and phrases like “dude,” “Right on,” and “stoked.”
Q: What is the one professional accomplishment you long for most?
A: I have been very fortunate to get to do some acting for a living. It’s a privilege to get to do something you love for a living. I just hope the work continues to come.
Q: What is the one thing you waste too much money on?
A: If only it were just one thing. I waste too much money on video games, fishing lures, comic books and wine. I’m a pretty big nerd.
Q: What is the one activity you waste too much time doing?
A: Got to be the video games.
Q: What do you consider to be the single greatest threat to your health?
A: I have an allergy to gluten. It’s a drag.
Q: What is the single best trait you inherited or learned from your parents?
A: Understanding and acceptance.
Q: What is the single worst trait you inherited or learned from your parents?
A: I worry…my mother is a big worrier.
Q: What in the world most thrills you?
A: I like to catch fish. I’m really into fishing. I’m also a big fan of rehearsing plays.
Q: What current trend in popular culture most irritates you?
A: The east coast vs. west coast rapper fued…..?
Q: What was the single most embarrassing moment you’ve ever experienced on the job?
A: Oh I’ve had many…I fell off the back of a set once in college. That was pretty bad.
Q: What is your favorite place in the world?
A: My living room is pretty great…my bed.
Q: What is the most important trait you seek in a romantic partner?
A: She needs to be my wife Erin.
Q: Do you prefer the company of dogs or cats?
A: Dogs are man’s best friends. Cats are like third cousins twice removed.
Q: What would have to happen to make today the best day of your life?
A: So many things, but I’m a big fan of sunshine, down time and good friends.
Q: What is your personal motto?
A: It depends on how things are going… My wife hates it when I say, “It is what it is.” One time I got pretty cut up in a high school soccer match and my coach told me to “just rub some dirt on it and get back out there.” Does “just rub some dirt on it” qualify as a motto?