Turning The Page: A Chat with Actor Steve Polites

Photo by Teresa Castracane Photography

By Frankie Kujawa
Dive into the world of literature, laughter, and friendship with Everyman Theatre's THE BOOK CLUB PLAY running now through Sunday, April 14th. Written by popular DC-based playwright Karen Zacarías, THE BOOK CLUB PLAY follows the story of Ana, a devoted book club leader, and her eclectic group of friends who become the subject of a legendary documentarian. Actor Steve Polites, who plays Robert Novum Smith in the performance, recently chatted about his role in the production. 

Frankie Kujawa: In your opinion, what can audiences expect from THE BOOK CLUB PLAY?
Steve Polites: I think audiences can expect to see a heartwarming comedy with surprises that is filled with human connections, laughter and literature. We have had terrific audiences and the responses have been really positive. We’ve all had such a blast working together throughout the entire process. Much of the credit has to go to the director Laura Kepley, who worked with the material, the ensemble and the entire creative team so beautifully. 

Frankie Kujawa: Could you describe for our readers your character Robert Novum Smith?
Steve Polites: [The character] Robert Novum Smith is a people person who attends the book club for the good company and the food. He is a bit of an underachiever, particularly when it comes to reading the assigned books. He has reached a point in his journey where he is re-evaluating some of his choices and sets forth in an attempt to find his flower of life.

Photo by Teresa Castracane Photography

Frankie Kujawa: Was there anything that you brought into this role specifically or wanted to highlight for this play?
Steve Polites: I wanted to show my ability to do comedy. I am often cast in more serious roles so it was nice to be able to bring a bit of my humor to the part. I wanted to highlight some of the more relatable elements of the character as well as bringing my personal love and passion for movies to the role of Rob. 

Frankie Kujawa: In your opinion, what makes Everyman Theatre such a special place to be part of?
Steve Polites: Everyman Theatre is special because of its sense of community, family, and across the board talent. They cultivate an environment of creative exploration, support, and quality work. The fact that they have a resident acting company only deepens the trust and connections between the characters that are being depicted on stage in every performance. I have thoroughly enjoyed every unique experience I have had while working with them.

​For more information on THE BOOK CLUB play, please visit: everymantheatre.org/event/bookclub/