Broadway’s evocative production of Floyd Collins transports audiences to 1925 Kentucky, delving into the true, harrowing story of a cave explorer whose pursuit of fame turns into a fight for survival when he becomes trapped underground. This compelling musical, featuring a haunting narrative by Tina Landau and a glorious folk and bluegrass-infused score by Adam Guettel, explores themes of the American dream and the dawn of media sensationalism. Among the talented cast bringing this transcendent tale to life is Marc Kudisch, who portrays Lee Collins, the patriarch of the trapped explorer’s family. In this exclusive behind-the-scenes look, Kudisch shares insights into his role, his journey to the stage, and his deep connection to this uniquely American story.
Stepping into the Caverns: Marc Kudisch on Playing Lee Collins
Kudisch offers a profound look into the character he embodies, the father of the ill-fated cave explorer.
Portraying a Father’s Struggle
“I play LEE COLLINS, the father to Floyd, Homer and Nellie,” Marc Kudisch explains. He describes Lee as “a proud man, a stubborn man, a ‘Sunday-go-to-meeting’ man,’ as Floyd actually described him to Skeets while trapped. And metaphorically, he’s trapped too; he’s a man trying to look out for his family, keep them safe, keep them in line… but completely misunderstanding the talents and qualities of his children- they’re beyond him… and not even his faith can answer that. If not for the support of Miss Jane, his second wife, he would likely fall apart…” This insight highlights the complex layers of a man caught between his beliefs and the incomprehensible ordeal facing his son.
From Politics to Broadway: A Path Unveiled
Kudisch’s journey to the stage took an unexpected turn from political science. “Politics. I was a Poly Sci major in college and decided to take some theatre courses to help with public speaking and interaction… Day 1 of class I walked into my Political Theory course, and written on the board was ‘ALL POLITICS IS BASED IN FAILURE’… How long will a program work until it implodes, etc? I couldn’t see myself basing my life’s work on that… and I ended up building sets til 5 a.m. instead of studying for Poly Sci exams… That told me something…” His career since has seen him in notable Broadway roles, including Trevor Graydon in Thoroughly Modern Millie, Mr. Burke in Girl From the North Country, and Franklin Hart Jr. in 9 to 5.
Floyd Collins: A Reflection of the American Experience
When asked to describe the production to someone unfamiliar with Broadway, Kudisch frames it as a deeply relatable narrative. “This is our history. These are people just like you. Going through life looking for their dreams… like you. Dealing with family and friends… Like you. Having to face the serious questions and consequences that Life and Death bring to us all. No matter where you’re from or what you believe, you’ll see yourself up there on our stage. This play is about YOU.” This sentiment underscores the universal themes explored in the show.
His passion for the play is evident in his answer to what he loves most about it: “This is an American play about our American lives… ALL of us. It’s history, past and still very, very present. And I LOVE it.”
Navigating the Big Apple: Marc Kudisch’s NYC Insights
Beyond the stage, Kudisch offers personal reflections on living and enjoying New York City.
A New Yorker’s Perspective
Kudisch shares a key lesson learned upon his arrival in NYC: “That NYers are GREAT people—the BEST. So many of us are from everywhere else, and we came here to find our community. We look you in the eye. If you need help, we’ll give it to you. Want our opinion? Even if you don’t, we’ll give it to you. We love the variety and the diversity of what New Yorkers bring to our town!”
For visitors, his advice is to “Have a great time here! Walk in Central Park, maybe take a boat on the lake, and head down to the Seaport for a great meal and gorgeous views of the river and ocean…. And definitely wander Times Square—but if someone dashes by you and gives you a bit of a push, they’re very likely an actor running to the theatre! We’re WORKING to make your PLAY more exciting!”
When asked about a night out, Kudisch, admitting he and his wife Shannon Lewis are “kinda homebodies,” suggests “Lincoln at Lincoln Center for a fantastic drink and meal.” As for his favorite meal, being vegetarian, he recommends “Coletta and Sentir.” His overall love for New York City is simple yet profound: “All of it.”
