Celebrating his 25th season as a Resident Acting Company member, David Rainey has become a staple in both the Alley Theatre and Houston Theatre communities. Since his Alley debut in 2000, Rainey has played a wide range of iconic roles, including Othello, Creon, Lenny, Colonel Mustard, and, of course, Scrooge. With 95 shows and 25 years under his belt, we asked Rainey to reflect on his time with the Alley.
What has been your biggest takeaway from 25 years at the Alley?
“That’s a tough one, because there are so many things to reflect on. I’ve seen a lot of changes over the years. I think one of the things that stands out the most is how deeply entrenched Alley audiences are to the company, and how committed the board is to keeping this an extraordinary place. In all the places that I’ve worked across the country, which is many, and even looking at organizations throughout the city, I can’t think of many other places that have the level of support and commitment from so many in its community as the Alley does.”
Do you have any specific show or rehearsal memories that stick out across your time at the Alley?
“I think working with Richard Nelson on Little Comedies was a highlight for everyone, even when it was challenging. It certainly was a special time for me because he was absolutely committed to craft. He was not interested in falseness, or tricks or techniques to dazzle audiences with cleverness. He wanted the truth. Naked and unafraid. And that’s my kind of theatre. It’s what I try to get my acting students to embrace. And as a result, every person in the company grew noticeably and dramatically. That experience has stuck with me and remains a cherished time at the Alley.”
What is unique about the Alley and the resident company you’re a part of?
“Well, certainly being made full-time staff, and being paid year-round, has made an enormous difference in the lives of the Resident Company. People would think that because you are in the Resident Company that you’re being taken care of. But the gaps that fell between shows, where no money was being made, was harder than most people realize. The average actor has a day job and when they get cast in a show, they work around their schedule to fit in the show. But our day job was the Alley, and when that just cuts off for blocks, sometimes months, it was difficult to land on your feet. Who wants to hire someone for a livable salary for only 3 weeks, 5 weeks, or even 2 months? So, finally getting stability as a Resident Company actor was a huge change and has made our lives much more stable.”
What show has meant the most to you?
“Of Mice and Men remains that show that I have the fondest memories of, and it is a show that audiences still come up to me and say was one of their favorites. It was a very special production, from concept to execution, and one that James Black directed masterfully.”
The Resident Acting Company is a huge cornerstone of Houston. What does it mean to you to be a part of that identity?
“I am very proud to have been allowed to be a part of Alley Theatre history. It seems quite surprising to me to have arrived at 25 years here. It’s a real privilege to have my name be amongst the names of so many talented actors that have been in the Alley’s Resident Acting Company. You always want to hope that you’ve made a difference, and that at the very least, your presence was felt and had a lasting impact on the audiences you served. And for as long as I remain, that will be my goal.”
You can see Rainey this season in Agatha Christie’s The Mirror Crack’d, The Body Snatcher, A Christmas Carol, and August Wilson’s Fences. Be sure to catch this landmark season!
