I’m a real goof ! Real humble too : Tyler Hajas

Tyler Hajas plays Marcus, Sebastians younger brother. Tyler grew up in Portland, Maine and attended Deering High where he had his first performance. After getting bit by the acting bug from a radio-commercial scam of sorts (a story for another day), Tyler luckily got a lead in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, from there he just kept going! He went on to meet J.R. Fortin after spending two years in NYC, and joined Hearts of New England where they’ve done some amazing things over the years. He resides in NYC, but always looks forward to another day as Marcus!

Tyler Hajas’s Exclusive Interview :

• What sort of person is going to love this character?
• Anybody who is drawn to a character that doesn’t care what others think! Marcus has strong desires— he’s very headstrong (and a “pinch” arrogant at times) which makes him fun to watch and a bit unpredictable. He’s got his vulnerabilities however, and that mixture can really capture you. 
• How is this character like you? Different?
• We’re both very determined and maybe a little too bold at times. It can get us into trouble, but we love it. Emotionally driven at times, but our mindset is usually in the right place. We know the power of confidence. I’m definitely more funny. Way more silly in real life, a real goofball believe it or not… Also, I’m a lot nicer! Marcus’ actions are usually much bigger than mine. He doesn’t have that little voice in his head, and if he does he’d rather ignore it haha. But that’s what makes him a hothead; his arrogance and flaws ultimately make him fun to watch.
• Is it easier to play this character or to be yourself ?
• I think its always easier to be yourself! I take parts of my personality and weave them into Marcus though. I love to amplify certain pieces.
• What do you love about this character?
• I love how fun it is to play someone like him. It’s very empowering to have his mindset and to feel that extra edge. His balance of crazy yet caring gives plenty of room for exploring his character. He believes he’s always got it figured out.
• What do you hate about this character?
• I wouldn’t say I hate anything about Marcus. But he’s definitely got his flaws! He’s got this power hunger that can get himself in his own way.
• What’s the biggest challenge about taking on this role?
• Hmm, I’d say to really capture how someone like him thinks on a day-to-day basis. Sometimes someone like Marcus has more behind the scenes than you think.
• Besides yourself, what celebrity would you like to see tackle this character?
• Ooh, I like this question! Off the top of my head…I’d say Shia LaBeouf. I’ve been physically compared to him before and I think he’d also have that ability to capture the balance of hotheadedness/wild side of Marcus.
• Without giving anything away, what’s your favorite line of dialogue?
• For Marcus?! That’s a tough one! I’m gonna go with, “You wanna know the difference between me and Jake? I finish what I start…” I loved delivering that line. Shows my bada** side and gives you that understanding of who Marcus is and how he operates.  
• Besides yourself, which actor in this production is going to blow people away?
• Kris Salvi!! He’s great— A real natural and incredible with improv. Love working with him and the power and sarcasm he brings to his character (my father!).
• If you could play any other character in this show, who would it be?
• I really think I vibe with Marcus the most, BUT if I had to choose….probably Sebastian— hey Justin! *wink wink* 
• If someone was going to make your life into a movie, who would play you?
• Honestly, I’m not sure! Many actors I know of who I’ve been compared to, or look like are older than me! Maybe somewhere between Chris Pratt or Paul Rudd?! Maybe Shia too lol! That’s the second time I’ve mentioned him… Shia, lets be friends.
• When did you first perform?
• On stage in High School! I played Demetrius in A Mid Summer Night’s Dream.
• Besides this one, what’s your favorite web series ?
• I’ll be honest, I didn’t know too much about web series until I was in one! I do know I’ve checked out one recently called “Coworkers”! A couple of familiar faces in there with a very interesting concept!
• Who do you look up to (as an actor/director/etc.)?
• I’ve always been fascinated by actors who can master/pull off both comedy and drama to their full extents. That, and actors who can truly transform/move you with a character. Jim Carrey, Robin Williams, Denzel, Jamie Foxx, Leo,  Samuel L Jackson, Joaquin, Heath. I also really love Paul Rudd. He just seems awesome. Meryl, Viola, and Kate Winslet have really captured me as well. Sorry I didn’t even come close to picking one in particular, I just love this industry and everybody’s abilities to make you feel something within yourself. Last but not least…Christopher Nolan is a director I love. He brings you into another world. His creativity is incredible and is a true cinematic genius. Jordan Peele is my most recent director I’d love to work with. The way he makes you think, and plot twist stud!! And he’s hilarious. OK I’m done.  
• What’s your perfect Sunday afternoon look like?
• I really love lazy Sunday’s. They’re my favorite. Sleep in, coffee, brunch, football, maybe one chore to feel like I did something, and throw in some guitar and wow…is it Sunday yet?
• When you have a five-minute break during rehearsal, what do you spend that time doing?
• Usually chatting up my costars! Love cracking jokes and hanging with everybody who isn’t in a scene. Once I hear the “quiet on set!!” though, I’ll hydrate and go over some lines for my next scene. Oh also probably have to wizz cause I get excited filming.
• Who’s the funniest person in the cast in real life?
• Meeee! LOL! I’m a real goof. Real humble too.
• If you had a magic wand, what show would you do next?
• Another great question. You’re really making me think today. With my wand I’d get on one of my favorite shows! Stranger Things, Shameless, New Girl,  Money Heist, maybe a superhero show?! I’d also love to do a show or movie where Paul Rudd plays my dad. Gold.