Introduction: Thank you so much for joining us in this interview, Kevin. In the entertainment industry, everyone has a story. In a few words, could you describe yours?
Kevin's Story:
I fell in love with improv comedy as a teenager and haven’t looked back since. This was back in Canada where I’m from. Eventually, I moved to Atlanta to run Dad’s Garage, the most bad-ass comedy theatre around. I ran that old chuckle hut for a decade before moving into indie filmmaking… and here we are!
Choosing a Career Path:
I didn’t choose rhyming; rhyming chose me! For real though, it’s been an organic growth from an early age, with me just taking baby step after baby step.
Early Experiences and Training:
I started learning improvisation at Rapid Fire Theatre in Edmonton. My mentors in those early days were (and still are) absolute juggernauts of improv: Jacob Banigan & Donovan Workun. I’ve literally done hundreds of shows with those guys, and everything I learned was from working alongside them.
Writing "How to Ruin The Holidays":
I wanted to write a script that explores my relationship with my little brother who has a developmental disability. Our vibe is so much more jokey and mischievous than the kind of thing I’m used to seeing portrayed in media.
Casting and Collaboration:
To be honest, I wrote the script with certain actors in mind. It’s so much easier working with people you already know. None of the actors you mentioned had to audition; we went to them and said: “we’re making this movie and we think you’d be perfect for this role.” Thankfully, they said yes!
Film's Message for Viewers:
People with developmental or intellectual disabilities deserve agency in their lives, they deserve the chance to make mistakes and live a full life like anyone else - which sometimes means their caregivers and loved ones need to take a step back. The way things have always been done isn’t how they always have to be. We can reinvent ourselves and our traditions.
Collaboration with Director Arlen Konopaki:
Arlen and I have worked together for years as an improv duo so this project was just an extension of that collaboration. He and I had a great creative back and forth every step of the way.
Current Projects:
I have a solo comedy show called “7 Minutes in Kevin” that will be running at Dad's Garage in April.
Connect with Kevin:
I’m @kgillese on all platforms!
Photo Credit :Ryan Parker Photography
How to Ruin the Holidays Photo Credit - Chelsea Patricia