Renowned Cellist Yo-Yo Ma once said, “Passion is one great force that unleashes creativity, because if you’re passionate about something, then you’re more willing to take risks.” This perfectly fits with Creative Arts Diploma student Zack Rocklin-Waltch ’17, who considers acting more than just a trade. Rocklin-Waltch began acting at age 8, and his career has since blossomed —not just by performing here, but also by starring in off-campus productions. In fact, he is currently playing Tobias Ragg, the apprentice of the titular character, in the Watertown Children’s Theater Production of Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. Next week, Rocklin-Waltch will also star in Mia Kundert’s ’16 student-directed play, Almost, Maine?

Arts Editor Anders O’Neill ’16 recently sat down with Rocklin-Waltch, curious to learn more about the rising star.

Q. Tell me a little about yourself and your background in theatre?

A. I started doing theatre when I was in the second grade and I haven’t been able to stop since. I found a really great home at Watertown Children’s Theater at the Arsenal Center for the Arts. I must have done about 30 shows there, I’ve lost track. When I came to Brimmer and May in 7th-grade I fell in love with the theatre program here as well.

Q. Describe your current role as Tobias Ragg in Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street.

A. Tobias is a young, innocent, and naive character. He gives a lot of hope and comic relief to the audience. It’s a very dark show but he is one of the characters that helps ease that darkness.

Q. Looking back, what’s has been your favorite role?

A. It has to be a tie between Macbeth or Pip in Great Expectations. Those roles both challenged me as an actor and performer, and that’s one of the best parts about being an actor.

Q. Whats is it like juggling rehearsals for both Sweeney Todd and Mia Kundert’s ’16 student-directed play, Almost, Maine?

A. It’s difficult. I’ve had to find priorities at different moments. It’s not an easy thing to do to be in two shows at once, especially when both are so demanding, but I hope it works out.

Q. Why do you think people should come see Sweeney Todd?

A. Great question. It’s dark, scary and exciting. Its a thriller, but its also very comical and surprisingly hopeful at times. I think people will leave the show feeling deeply unsettled, but at the same time deeply satisfied with the impression that they’ve gone on an adventure that they won’t find anywhere else. Its fun, terrifying, and hilarious—and it has something for everyone.

Remaining Performances: May 7th @ 7:00, May 8th @ 7:00, May 9th @ 2:00 and 7:00, and May 10th @ 2:00. Reserve your tickets by clicking here.