Forever Plaid director Steven Flaa started out with the
show twenty-five years ago in the role of Sparky at The
Straz. In this exclusive interview, he reflects on his career
with the show and why everyone loves The Plaids.
What about this show has
kept you so close to it for all
these years?
The show just makes you feel good.
There is an honesty and warmth in these
characters that everyone can relate to – in
addition to the magnificent music. I do
feel that I am passing on the traditions
of the show every time I direct it. I have
performed in 14 different productions of
the show, playing all four roles at some
point, and this production marks the 18th
time I have directed it – and I always find
something new in the show and love
teaching new Plaids the show.
For everyone who hasn’t seen
the show or doesn’t
know what it’s
about, what do
you think is the
number one
reason to make
sure they see
Forever Plaid?
First of all, the music. The vocal
arrangements by the late James Raitt
(cousin of Bonnie, nephew of John) are
absolutely spectacular and great fun to
sing. No matter your taste, you will enjoy
this music. Also: the characters. Everybody
either was or knew characters like the
Plaids, so they can understand and relate
to them. That, and the music, keeps people
coming back to see the show. Plus, the fact
that it is very funny – and touching as well.
Is there anything else you want
to add about the show or your
relationship to it?
Forever Plaid has kept me working in one
capacity or another for almost twenty-five
years. I will always be eternally
grateful to the show – and
to Judy Lisi and everybody
at The Straz who first
gave me this gift. That’s
what makes it extra
special to do the show
in the Jaeb.
Photo © Rob-Harris Productions
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Steven Flaa with The Plaids
Photo by Rob/Harris Productions, Inc.