NBC’s The Office has cultivated a legion of fans who continue to watch the series long after its nine seasons have ended. Knowing the degree of love that folks have for the show, Bob and Tobly McSmith, along with Right Angle Entertainment, have produced The Office!: A Musical Parody, currently playing at The Theater Center in New York City. A wide array of talented actors have taken on the roles of such characters as Jim Halpert and Michael Scott, including Michael Santora, who portrays Assistant (to the) Regional Manager Dwight Schrute.
I caught up with Mr. Santora to speak with him briefly about his involvement with the musical and taking on such an iconic role as Dwight Schrute.
Michael Santora as Dwight Schrute
FreakSugar: How did you become involved in the musical?
Michael Santora: I went to an open call. There must have been about 500 people auditioning over the course of 3 days. Two weeks later, I received an offer to play Dwight! The best part was calling my brother and telling him. He is a huge fan of The Office!
FS: The show, the writing, and characters are all so iconic and ingrained in our consciousness. What was it like for you to tackle this iconic world?
MS: Once I got the role, I watched all nine seasons in about five weeks. The actors on the TV show did such an amazing job! Rainn Wilson is incredible. Then I took the music to my voice teacher, and started working on it right away!
FS: What kind of reaction have you had so far from the musical and your performance?
MS: I love meeting the audience after the show! My favorite part is meeting all of the adorable “couple super fans” that come to the show! I have met dozens of couples that get tickets for their birthday, or wedding anniversary. They are so happy to be there. And they have the best time!
The Office!: A Musical Parody is currently playing at The Theater Center in New York City.