Actor Profile & BTS: David Mouti as Peter Stockman – MESSENGER, 2026
Mouti has been around the DSP block before– last seen in 2024, directing The Trespassers for our 50th season!
A little about David Mouti:
I am excited by opportunities to explore the confluence of the art and the science of theatre.
An important quote of Peter Stockman, and what it says to Mouti about the character:
Peter and Thomas face off! (Mouti and Ted Powers)
“I was trying to help him. And you. And the family.”
I believe Peter is trying to keep many plates spinning. He is genuinely trying to do right by many players: his brother, and his brother’s family; his Prime Minister; his government; the people of Canada; and, yes, himself. He’s not perfect, but neither is he malevolent.
You can’t always get what you want. And when you can’t, you do the very best you can with what you have.
Peter is in many ways a product of his time: the 1980s. I like to think I’m a bit more… evolved. 🙂
And at last, to touch on this season’s theme of Untangling Love:
Peter untangles love by showing that love is sometimes manifested by making difficult decisions and taking unpopular actions.
Mouti and Director Andra Kelly reviewing notes.
How does one develop a role in opposition to a core theme, or character, of a play with the nuance enough to also earn the sympathy of an audience?
This is something Mouti considers, as would anyone portraying such a complicated character in Peter Stockman’s messy position!
Rarely is there black-and-white in theatre, and a director of any play would hardly want an issue to come off as simply as that.
We can all agree to love the messiness of a good drama, which tugs us in conflicting directions.
Mouti and Powers.
What also might it say that two brothers, who disagree on just about everything, still spend so much time together?
Why do we try to understand, or argue, or negotiate with anyone?
Could it be, possibly, that there are things more important than disagreements? Could it be that disagreements might enrich our lives and causes?
You’ll have to come see what these actors show us in November!
One rehearsal Director Andra Kelly was very excited to share something with her cast & crew:
At last, shining Kelly shows off her spectacular new dress!
