Orson and Me: Zac Efron and Claire Danes Take Broadway

By Christopher Moore, Broadway Magazine

Born in Wisconsin and destined to change the artistic world, the figure of Orson Welles continues to loom large both in the history of cinema and the American stage. The new film "Orson and Me" offers a detailed look at the world of Orson Welles from the perspective of a young actor taking part in Welles' historic production of Julius Caesar on Broadway. Stars from the film, including Zac Efron and Claire Danes, took time to talk with us about the new film on opening night in New York City.

"I got a phone call, and I heard that Richard Linklater was interested in working with me and that he had a script," says Zac Efron, describing how he came to be involved in the film. After immediately reading the script, Zac Efron says he was instantly excited about the project.

"I liked the character, I could really relate to him. He falls in love with the theatre. He falls in love with the girl in the play. I just thought, 'man, this a lot like how my life went when I was young," recalls Zac Efron, who has successfully transitioned beyond his famous role in the High School Musical to become a star in his own right.

"It's a really wonderful coming of age story," reflects Claire Danes, "it's about a young teen-age boy who talks his way into an epic production of Julius Caeser, Orson Welles' first theatrical production in 1937."

"I was in New York at 59E59 Theatre. Tiny little theatre," says Christian McKay about how he first heard about the role of Orson Welles.

"Not even in my wildest imagination are they going to cast a totally unknown, rather pompous, apprentice stage actor who's English as this great American icon. No way," grins Mr. McKay, who has earned a bounty of positive reviews for his nuanced portrayal of Orson Welles in the film.

"It's kind of an ode to youth, really," smiles Claire Danes, as she discusses the film, continuing "it's a wonderful combination of interpretation and fiction and history."

With attention to historic detail and solid performances, Orson and Me stands out as one of the more unique films about a Broadway production ever made. Check out the entire video preview, red carpet interviews, and more on Orson and Me right here on www.Broadway.tv.