a performer’s portfolio
“A man of many faces . . .”
is how I was described in a newspaper piece about my theatrical work. While creating this website, I thought about how apt that description was for me because of the many different roles I play not only as an actor but as a person. Professionally I am a musician and an actor, but the same passions which drive those pursuits have also spurred my interest in other areas such as writing, painting and climbing. I hope to share those passions with you and show the many sides of Who I Am (the title of my latest album), while showcasing my professional skills to those wishing to engage my services.
some of my many faces on and off stage
Theater
I’ve been involved with theater for over 40 years, performing more than 50 roles as an actor, directing numerous productions, coaching performers, creating and teaching in theater programs in academia, and producing a repertory of one-man shows. My overarching goal as an actor is to connect people through the magic of theater and invite each audience member into a different world, the world of the play, and in that world to know delight with a freshness of feeling and thinking. For more detailed information about my theatrical experience and services, including pictures and video clips, click the button below.
In a performance of “A Child’s Christmas in Wales with Dylan Thomas ”
Music
My musical career includes live performances as well as recordings. I play guitar and flute, sing and write songs. I perform original works and cover songs ranging from popular songs such as “Here Comes the Sun” to classics like “Satin Doll” to show tunes like “If I Only had a Brain” to folk melodies like “Jamaica Farewell”. I’ve studied and use a variety of styles including classical, jazz, flamenco, and folk. Like most musicians, I love playing for live audiences and the special connection and interaction with listeners, but I’ve also recorded six albums. To learn more about my music and listen to my songs for free, click the button below.
Voice Recording
A new area of interest for me which marries my acting skills with my studio recording experience is spoken word performances of poetry and prose and the narration of audio books. My audio book version of “Then Comes a Wind: A Novel” by R J Stewart is now available on Amazon and I am currently working on an audio book of xxx by xxx. Samples of my readings of prose and poetry are provided here.
Writing
My involvement in theater and music brings home to me the power and beauty of words, so it is not surprising that I’m often moved to express myself through that medium. I am currently working on a book-length account of an eventful hiking experience on Mount Haleakalā in Maui . You can read selections of my work by clicking the titles below.
Reviews
MUSIC
"The kind of mellow melodic music performed by Rick seemed to set the customers at ease, He became the focus, people would applaud after each song, and Rick became one of the main reasons for repeat business. If you're looking for a laid back softer style of music for entertainment, Rick is one of the best out there...I only ask that you not use him in the summer...I have dibs on Rick in the summer."
-Sean Martines, Manager, Bridgewater Grill Golden
"His gentle vocals and familiar melodies enriched the welcoming atmosphere. I made sure the library got some copies of this local talent so others could share his art. We also have had him perform during the holidays for our patrons, and they always ask us to make sure and have him back!"
-Kathy Husband, Library Manager, Jefferson County Public Library
THEATER
"Rick Scheideman delivers a tour de force performance as the plaintive Jody, Louise's ex-husband and Helen's tubercular, alcoholic father. Scheideman masterfully captures the vicissitudes of this sympathetic and well-intentioned character."
-Sarah Ruppenthal, The Maui News
"I know the difference between an actor who is in tune with his craft and one who is not, and I am pleased to recommend to you this very talented man, Rick Scheideman."
-Michael Pulliam, The Maui Scene
"Scheideman masterfully captures the nuances of Clemens, laying Southern gentility and ironic wit on top of righteous indignation at the human penchant for murder and mayhem. This tour-de-force performance is not to be missed."
-Patrick Rainville Dorn, Saturday Review Online