Star Trek has always played a big part in my life. When Next Generation was still on air my family would order a pizza and we would all watch Trek together. To this day, watching Star Trek makes me feel a little bit like a kid. It’s an incredible show that conveys a sense of wonder like no other. It’s full of mindbending plots, strange alien encounters, and most importantly, Klingons, the ultimate sci-fi badasses.

This past June, I happened to be perusing the web for upcoming Chicago-area auditions. There was little that caught my eye and I was just about to give up when I saw a listing for A Klingon Christmas Carol. My heart skipped a beat. I had heard of the show before, but had not had the opportunity to see it. Friends had told me it was excellent and I’d always been intrigued. I quickly updated my resume and dug up a headshot. Not only was this an opportunity to participate in a cool show with a great reputation, it was an opportunity to be a Klingon!

The audition was a completely new experience for me. In addition to cold reads, we spoke Klingon and learned basic stage combat. It was a ton of fun and I left excited – I had to be a part of this.

Now, just a few months later, the first week of rehearsals are finished! It’s clear this will be a demanding few months as we prepare for a month’s worth of shows in December. As Young SQuja’ (Young Scrooge) I get the challenge of playing the younger version of the sniveling, SQuja’, a cowardly Klingon with a love for latinum.

Everyone involved in the show is great. All are dedicated to bringing the Klingon characters to life and all appreciate the significance of Klingons to Star Trek. Respect for the source material drives all aspects of the production and as a nerd myself, I really appreciate this. The returning cast members are quick to help newbies such as myself, particularly as we work to learn the Klingon language, “tlhIngan Hol.” As I work on my lines, I’ve gotten quite a few looks as I mutter to myself in Klingon while riding the L. No matter, anything for the theatre!

So far, I’ve most enjoyed learning the basics of stage combat. This is new to me as a performer and while it is a challenge, it’s a lot of fun. I’m fortunate to be able to participate in what sounds like great fight sequence and I can’t wait to start practicing it.

I’ll be tweeting about the show as we continue through rehearsals and blogging here once a week. Keep your lookin’ balls peeled for more updates, it’s bound to be a wild ride.

Qapla’!