Robert Gottlieb is making his New York City debut as Fleming in Line!

After lighting his B.A. in economics and philosophy on fire, decided to move to the big apple and pursue his dream of acting. Currently a star pupil at the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute, Robert plays guitar, sings Sinatra tunes, writes comedy sketches, and mentors young Padawans in the mysterious ways of the SAT.

And brings “Fleming”into the 21st Century with enthusiasm. 

He stopped singing “My way” long enough to share some thoughts…

 

 

We hear a lot about inspiration – or Muse – that drives an artist. What inspires you?

I’m inspired by anyone who loves what they do. Whether it’s acting, painting or real-estate finance. Passionate people light a fire to my own passion and drive. I can talk to them for hours. I happen to love acting – watching and doing – but I feel a connection to anyone who loves what they do.

What is your vision and process for the play/part

The first step in my creative process for Fleming was learning the lines forwards, backwards and sideways. It’s difficult for me to explore the emotional life of a character if any part of my brain is dedicated towards thinking about the next line. The next step was to find a real-life person that I wanted to build my character from. Some time in September I watched a young New York policeman ticket a guy in the subway and I saw in that cop’s mannerisms an archetype to serve as the foundation for Fleming. Next, I thought through the characters mannerism and speaking habits. I came up with an accent for Fleming, I pictured how he walks, and I even experimented with a cane for a little! Finally I wrote down Fleming’s bio: where he’s from, what he does and what powerful experiences he’s had in his past life. Once I did all that I had a good sense of what Fleming’s state of being should be and I was able to react as the character

What do you want most in your chosen profession? It’s OK to say “fame” or “wealth.”

To keep doing it! The ultimate goal is to do well enough at this thing we call ‘acting’ so that it’s the only thing I need to do for the rest of my life.

Sally Field and Paul Newman both said of their profession… “it’s all I can do.” Is this all you can do?

When I worked behind a desk I’d dream about being in front of a camera most nights. I tried working a safe job and it didn’t work. So yes, I need to act. I love Acting more than I love anything else I’ve ever done and I’d find a way to do it in some capacity no matter what.

Along those lines, if you couldn’t so this, what would you do?

I’d be a park ranger.

How do you want [legit] history to remember you?

All I really want is to be remembered as an actor and I good person. If I can do what I love professionally and not be a douchebag while I’m doing it – that’s all I ask.

Last words? 

Come see Line!…oh, and, um….the rest is silence!