From center stage to center ice
Toronto-born actor, Noah Reid is set to star in this fall’s musically-inspired comedy Score: A Hockey Musical. Written and directed by fellow Canadian Michael McGowan (One Week), Score tells the story of a quirky, home-schooled teen who, literally, shoots to stardom in a matter of weeks after he astonishes everyone with his unparalleled hockey skills. Reid stars alongside musical veteran Olivia Newton John (Grease) and composer Marc Jordan, who play his uptight parents who struggle with their sheltered son’s sudden star status.
“It’s a very Canadian film, and because of that it’s difficult to say what the international reception will be,” explains the 23-year-old actor. “I’m not too worried about fan recognition, though. I just want to be able to keep doing what I love.”
This witty, unconventional musical is peppered with Canadian talent including guest appearances from Nelly Furtado, Hawksley Workman (The Real Howard Splitz), Dru Viergever (Would Be Kings) and Stephen McHattie (Maurice Richard), as well as the The Barenaked Ladies who are featured on the film’s soundtrack.
While sudden outbursts of song and dance aren’t for everyone, Score may have those who don’t usually enjoy musicals singing a different tune.
“I’m not much of a musical fan myself…but this isn’t your typical musical. The songs are quite unique; the lyrics are tongue-in-cheek, plot advancing couplets,” explains Reid. ” Also, the movie delves into the debate of fighting in hockey, so it’s interesting to me in a number of ways. I bet it will be the same for everyone else.”
From lending his voice to the original Franklin the Turtle and roaming the halls of Degrassi and Blake Holsey High, to a multitude of stage performances and a sure-to-be-hit film, Reid has displayed his outstanding talent depicting a diversity of characters. When asked about the roles he hopes to acquire down the road, Reid responded humbly, revealing a true passion for his craft; absent of the slightest trace of egotism or a desire for the worldwide recognition many rising stars covet.
“I want to be around in this business for a long time. I’d like to get to the point where I get to choose the kinds of projects I want to do, roles that really make people feel and think. There are a lot of great actors out there, and a lot of great producers. For now, I’m quite happy to see what comes my way and just go from there.”
Score: A Hockey Musical is set to hit theatres in October 2010 and is also anticipating acceptance at this year’s Toronto International Film Festival. You can also catch Reid in the Soulpepper Theatre Company’s latest masterpiece, Jitters. This Canadian classic by David French is a “play-within-a-play” that gives viewers a behind the scenes look at the comedic calamities that unfold opening night. The play runs until Saturday, July 24th at the Young Center for the Performing Arts.
Image provided by: rock-it promotions, inc.
Written by: Amy Jessica Weeks
amy@sugarcainent.com
