Vinny DePonto is returning to Pipeline this February as magic consultant on Beardo, after previously working with us as magic consultant on Clown Bar. Vinny is a mentalist and theater artist with a undying interest in mysterious things. His stage show Charlatan (Ars Nova) was nominated for Drama Desk Award. The New York Daily News calls DePonto’s one-man performance “Breathtaking.” In addition to his live performances, DePonto also consults for television, film, and theater projects that require the use of practical effects, psychological illusions and modern trickery. Learn more about Vinny in our interview below, and grab your tickets to Beardo today!
Pipeline Theatre Company: What attracted you to Beardo? What made you want to work on this project?
Vinny DePonto: Mostly because I like beards. That’s what this is about right?
PTC: Why magic?
VD: Magic and illusion, like great theatre, can transport you to a place of pure astonishment. Something we don’t get a lot of these days. It’s why I love working with Pipeline – they have a keen sense of how to create magical worlds that we can live and wonder in, even for a brief moment.
PTC: If you ruled the world, what would you be remembered for?
VD: I think I’d be remembered for ruling the world right? Has anyone actually ruled the world yet? That’s pretty impressive.
PTC: Why should someone who has no connection to this show or its artists come see the show?
VD: The same reason any human should be open to any idea – because every unique experience you have shapes your perspective of the world. Great theatre adds great value to your life. Especially theatre made by this incredible lineup of artists.
PTC: If you could create a promotional tagline for this show, what would it be?
VD: Meat. Mystery. Murder.
