Real is good but interesting is better” – Stanley Kubrick
Magazine, Entertainment, Interviewed by Jadwiga Inglis
Marek Probosz: Unveiling the Art of Channeling Characters – A Journey through Theater, Film, and Poetic Passions
In this captivating interview, Jadwiga Inglis delves into the world of Marek Probosz, an extraordinary actor, theater, and film director with an unwavering passion for his craft. With a multitude of prestigious awards adorning his career, Marek opens up about character preparation, conquering stage fright, and his lifelong love for acting. Join us as we embark on a journey through his diverse roles, powerful performances, and his unwavering dedication to capturing the essence of truth on both stage and screen. Notably, Marek’s performances in the play “Norwid Returns,” written by Kazimierz Braun, garnered tremendous success not only in New York but also in Los Angeles.
JI: Marek, you received numerous prestigious awards, including The Outstanding Pole Award Winner in the Culture Category 2023 and the Pola Negri – POLITKA AWARD. How do these honors make you feel?
Marek Probosz as a Poet Cyprian Norwid
M.P.: Receiving such esteemed awards is truly an honor and fills me with a sense of gratitude. It’s wonderful to be recognized for my contributions to Polish and Polish American culture, and it motivates me to continue my artistic journey.
JI: Your ability to portray diverse characters is impressive. How do you prepare yourself to play such varied roles authentically?
M.P.: Thank you for the kind words. Preparing for different roles involves an in-depth study of the characters’ struggles, conflicts, and emotions. I delve into their minds, body language, and souls to understand and harmonize with them. This process allows me to channel the characters and bring truth to my performances.
JI: Was acting always your passion? What led you to pursue a career as an actor?
Marek Probosz as Roman Polański
M.P.: Acting found me rather than the other way around. From a young age, I enjoyed making people laugh and discovered my love for acting during my theater debut at the age of six. While I briefly ventured into competitive sports, my true calling always remained acting, and I returned to it, becoming an actor, director, writer, teacher, and, of course, a jester.
JI: When you receive a new role, how do you approach the preparation process?
M.P.: My preparation starts with extensive research on the character, immersing myself in everything connected to their story. This includes physical, mental, and spiritual aspects. Through this individual alchemy, I become an extension of the character’s spirit, and my heart beats with their truth, which I then channel to the audience.
JI: Do you ever experience stage fright before going on stage? How do you handle it?
Marek Probosz as Kapitan Pilecki
M.P.: Stage fright is a part of the performance process, and I embrace it as an adrenaline and energy source. I use concentration, breathing techniques, and improvisation to overcome any unexpected challenges that may arise during a performance.
JI: Out of all the roles you’ve performed, which one is your favorite and why?
M.P.: Every new role brings its own unique challenges, but portraying Captain Witold Pilecki was particularly meaningful to me. Pilecki’s story, a shining example of heroism and love for his homeland, resonates deeply with my personal history, making it a role close to my heart.
JI: Is there a dream role you aspire to perform in the future?
Marek Probosz
M.P.: There are several dream roles on my list, and while time may be limited, I still hope to take on the challenge of playing a Polish statesman who was also an artist and pianist. Additionally, I’d love to portray King Lear and even Charlie Chaplin, considering my fondness for humor and laughter.
JI: What fascinated you the most as a child?
M.P.: Historical heroes, stars, galaxies, death, and love all captivated my young mind. A quote from Alexander the Great, “In the end, when it’s over, all that matters is what you have done,” left a profound impact on me.
JI: Your play, Norwid’s Return, was a great success in New York. What led you to explore Norwid’s work?
M.P. As an emigrant, I felt a deep connection with Cyprian Norwid’s fate, and I wanted to bring his poetry to life on stage. He was an overlooked visionary, and I believed it was essential to reintroduce his work to a modern audience. The challenge of delivering Norwid’s texts in Polish with English subtitles on Broadway was like scaling a vertical rock, but the effort was immensely rewarding.
Marek Probosz- Outstanding Artist, actor, director, and writer.
JI: One of the Hollywood wives, Monique Lehman, had a question for you. Did you know at once that Małgosia was your true love?
M.P.: Love at first sight, is a powerful experience, and when I met Małgosia, I knew she was my soulmate. Our love is a complete universe of harmony and oneness.
JI: After playing a powerful role like Captain Witold Pilecki, how do you approach getting different kinds of roles in the film industry?
M.P.: Rather than waiting for opportunities, I believe in creating them. I established the Marek Probosz Theater because I believe that an artist must express their talent and passion in their unique way. I continue to march forward on my creative journey, driven by my calling.
JI: What predispositions does an actor need to dance naked in a grocery store or perform convincingly as a country’s president?
M.P.: To convincingly portray diverse characters, actors must fully trust in the roles they play. They need to immerse themselves wholeheartedly, express their true desires, and infuse their performances with talent, energy, humor, and wit. Being true to oneself and the character is what makes performances interesting and captivating.
After the Helena Modrzejewska Award presentation for
actor Marek Probosz and actress Kasia Śmiechowicz, with Jadwiga Inglis, International Correspondent, all of us received Diplomas Of Outstanding Recognition from the California State Senate of Orange and LA County Supervisors.
JI: Marek, thank you for sharing your insights and experiences. Your dedication to delivering powerful messages through your art is commendable, and your performances are truly captivating. I wish you continued success in all your creative endeavors.
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