An Interview with Sam Underwood


Sam Underwood (TV’s Fear The Walking Dead, Homeland, Dexter, The Following) is mostly manic, and definitely depressed!

Losing Days follows his hilarious and harrowing journey of losing his f*cking mind - and finding it again - set to the tunes that got him through. Featuring live music from Frank Turner’s ‘Tape Deck Heart’ album, and the debut performance of The Boxroom Larrys. 

1 in 3 people suffer with some form of mental illness in the course of their life. For such a pervasive condition in society, opening up about the internal struggle many people deal with on a day to day basis is still surrounded by skepticism, shame and silence. Losing Days is a true story seen through a shattered kaleidoscope, delving into the superhero struggle of mental illness, and smashing the taboos that surround it. This is NOT a sob story! 

Buy your tickets to Losing Days here.

1. Hi Sam, can you tell us about Losing Days, your upcoming production at Edinburgh Fringe Festival?
I hope so! Losing Days is a storytelling piece with live music. It chronicles my recent - and not so recent - journey dealing with mental health issues. British punk-rock artist Frank Turner’s album ‘Tape Deck Heart’ plays a central role in this story, and will be performed by The Boxroom Larry’s in their EdFringe debut!
2. You've performed at Ed Fringe for a few years now. What is it about the Fringe that appeals to you?
The atmosphere, first of all. Its electric. Buzzing with anticipation, excitement and adrenaline. Its an addictive environment to be in as an artist. I feel that everyone is given the opportunity to shout out proudly about their Art. And everyone's Art, everyone's stories are given space to be seen and heard.  
3. Your production focuses on mental health. Mental health is such an important subject to me and millions of others. How do you plan to tackle the stigma that generally surrounds it?
First step - tell my story (so far). Talking about it is step one - and everyone needs to know that it is okay to talk about it. It doesn’t need to be a shameful attribute or defect in someones character. And I think that creating a space of safety is also contingent on educating people who do not deal with mental health issues. The more they are exposed to stories, the less abnormal it will seem to them. 1 in 3 people experience some form of mental health issue in their lifetime - so it is improbable that you don’t know someone who is dealing with it. Feeling safe to ask - really ask - “How are you feeling?” Is as important as feeling safe to say “I’m not doing great today.” 
4. What advice would you give someone that's struggling with their mental health? 
Make sure someone close to you is aware. Find that one person who you feel safe to share what you are struggling with. If you don’t yet trust someone that you know personally, whether its friends or family, please talk to a professional. I say this knowing how difficult, painful, scary and shameful it might be to talk. I still don’t do it all the time when I should - but keeping it to yourself puts a lot of emotional weight on you, and could ultimately be dangerous. Please talk to someone.
5. As well as performing in Losing Days, you have also written and produced the show. In your experience, do you prefer acting or being more involved in behind the scenes, on the production side of things?
I will say that writing my own show for the first time is the scariest - and possibly the stupidest! - thing I’ve ever done. But part of my condition is delusions of grandeur, so…
Each aspect of theatre particularly, for me at least, feels very different in terms of creative satisfaction. Producing helps me feel a sense of order and control, where as the writing and performing is my creative outlet - its my vocation. Its what gets me out of bed in the morning. I would say if I could absolutely only do one, I would perform. But their is something satisfying about not having to wait for other people to give you an opportunity to do what you love!

6. In your time as an on stage and also on screen actor, what do you find to be the major differences? Is there one you'd choose over the other?
Theatre is more immediate - there's a direct connection between you and your audience, and you are all taking this journey together. Its also never going to be the same - the idea of a community gathering to hear a story - its a unique event.
On camera work I would describe as more intimate. The camera is your audience - its closer and it does not need as much “projection”.
As an actor onstage I feel like I take a long journey every performance. There's a stamina needed in that. With on-camera work the stamina isn’t about being prepared for a long journey, but having to recreate organically, relive in the moment “moments” from the journey over and over again. That takes a stamina and patience of its own.

7. Why should people come and see your show? Can you recommend any others at the Fringe?
I promise its not a sob story! If you love Frank Turners music, or just live music in general, thats another good reason to come. You can bring your drinks in. Its only an hour or so long. Ummm… oh, and it also deals with a really REALLY important part of society that needs to be talked about more often. So not only are you getting some entertainment for your money, but you may learn something too? Thats good, right?
8. Lastly, Is there a role you've yet to take on as an actor, that you'd really like to tackle? If so, what would it be?
A Superhero. And Henry V. Both of those.

Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions and I look forward to seeing you in Edinburgh in a few weeks.

Follow Sam on Twitter here: Losing Days | Sam Underwood



27 comments

  1. This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Man… I’ve been a Sam Underwood fan for as long as I can remember. He raised the bar up high when being in DEXTER. Plus, he’s not wrong about The Fringe. It’s addictive as anything. It’s great seeing him light notes on mental health. I mean, going for professional essay writers service UK based, with top experts designing the best pieces was one way to get out of that pain in freshman year. But Sam’s words are what also sparked in me reducing the stress on myself.

    ReplyDelete
  3. This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

    ReplyDelete
  4. This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

    ReplyDelete
  5. This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

    ReplyDelete
  6. This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

    ReplyDelete
  7. This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

    ReplyDelete
  8. This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

    ReplyDelete
  9. I definitely enjoying every little bit of it. It is a great website and nice share. I want to thank you. Good job! You guys do a great blog, and have some great contents. Excellent post it is very impressive and inspiring content help with assignment writing thanks for share us keep it up

    ReplyDelete
  10. This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

    ReplyDelete
  11. This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

    ReplyDelete
  12. This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

    ReplyDelete
  13. This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

    ReplyDelete
  14. This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

    ReplyDelete
  15. I will probably be coming back to your weblog for more soon! Mens Red and White Striped Leather Jacket

    ReplyDelete
  16. Hy I'm Designer For Customize Leather Jackets. Please Visit Our Website. F9 Vin Diesel Faux Leather Jacket

    ReplyDelete
  17. hey! our site is on vpn suggetions specially for those who new users. sharing with us your more contents .

    ReplyDelete
  18. Excellent post. I am also experiencing a few of these issues as well, batman naked leather motorcycle riding jacket but now I have got some ideas. Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
  19. Well, this is not the case only for you but many academic services providers wanted trustworthy reviews to get a solid clientele. I remember I once hired a professional from the UK only who had to buy dissertation papers at the best possible rates. Do you know what happened to me? He took the money and got lost. I did not even inspect his site and that caused the theft of my hard-earned money.

    ReplyDelete
  20. I definitely enjoy it all. It's a great site and a great share. i want to thank you Great! You have a great blog and great content. Excellent post. Very impressive and moving content. Service for Biology essay writing service. Thanks for sharing us and keep it up

    ReplyDelete

  21. Sam Underwood, the MCA Lead , brings exceptional expertise in managing complex projects, providing strategic direction, and fostering cross-functional collaboration. With a keen eye for detail and a strong focus on efficiency, Sam's leadership drives teams towards success, making him a sought-after professional in the industry.

    ReplyDelete
  22. Your blog post is an intellectual masterpiece, every word meticulously crafted to form a symphony of profound insights. The eloquent prose, adorned with wisdom, constructs a literary tapestry. It's not just a post; it's a journey through the corridors of enlightenment. Eagerly awaiting the next revelation, where each word deepens the allure of this captivating intellectual exploration. Allow me to share some information with you Why need supporting document such as a visa or residence for Turkey Visa This question delves into the essentials of visa application. Understanding the significance of each supporting document is vital for a seamless process.

    ReplyDelete
  23. As I continue my search for valuable insights, I've stumbled upon some exceptional articles and blog posts within this field. While browsing Yahoo, I stumbled upon this website. Having absorbed the information presented, I'm genuinely impressed. It feels like I've found precisely what I've been seeking. I'll certainly make a point to revisit this website frequently. How much is a 30 day tourist visa for India? The cost of a 30-day tourist e-visa for India varies based on nationality, It's convenient and accessible for travelers planning short-term visits.

    ReplyDelete
  24. Regularly writing blogs is part of my routine, and your content is undeniably exceptional. This captivating article has aroused my interest. I've made it a point to bookmark your website and stay updated with new information, typically on a weekly basis. Moreover, I've subscribed to your RSS feed. Is Azerbaijan safe? Yes, Azerbaijan is generally safe for tourists. However, like any destination, it's essential to stay aware of your surroundings and follow local guidelines to ensure a safe visit.

    ReplyDelete
  25. May I have your permission to showcase your posts on my blog? I assure you of proper crediting and thorough source citation. Considering our shared niche, I believe your content would be highly valuable to my audience. Thank you for considering this proposal. Egypt transit visa for US citizens, To traveling through Egypt may require a transit visa depending on their layover duration and destination. It's advisable to check for accurate visa requirements and application procedures.

    ReplyDelete
  26. Within your blog post, you embark on a captivating literary odyssey that effortlessly delves into the realms of intellect and emotion. The flawless integration of profound insights and relatable anecdotes is truly noteworthy. Can I move to Vietnam from UK? Yes, UK citizens can move to Vietnam. They can apply for visas such as work permits, retirement visas, or long-term visas to reside in Vietnam legally. It's advisable to research visa requirements and immigration regulations before relocating.

    ReplyDelete
  27. Your blog is a literary masterpiece! Your eloquent prose and thought-provoking analysis elevate every topic you explore. How much is the visa fee for Saudi Arabia from Australia? The visa fee for Saudi Arabia from Australia varies depending on the type of visa and duration of stay.

    ReplyDelete