article by Jake Mendel

Modern Classics Theatre of Long Island’s production of Douglas Carter Beane’s sharp satire, “As Bees in Honey Drown,” promises a whirlwind of wit and deception. Adding to the dynamic energy of the play is Brian DiRaimondo, who takes on the exciting challenge of portraying multiple roles within the production. With a diverse background spanning theatre, stand-up comedy, and even criminal justice, DiRaimondo brings a unique perspective to this exploration of fame and fantasy at the BACCA Arts Center.

DiRaimondo’s journey into performance began early, with his first play at the age of eleven. This early exposure ignited a passion that has continued to evolve, encompassing stand-up comedy and now his debut with Modern Classics Theatre. “I have never worked at Modern Classics Theatre before, and I am excited about making my MCT debut,” he shares, highlighting his enthusiasm for this new theatrical venture.

What drew DiRaimondo to “As Bees in Honey Drown” was its intriguing blend of humor and depth. “I think dark comedy is great,” he explains. “Although there are a lot of funny moments, there is a lot of emotion and feeling in this play. There’s a cool balance there.” Furthermore, the opportunity to inhabit a variety of characters proved particularly appealing. “What also drew me to the play was being able to perform a bunch of roles. It’s been really fun taking on completely different characters and discovering how they flesh out over the course of rehearsals,” he notes, emphasizing the creative exploration involved in this multifaceted task. Reuniting with director Tarmo Kirsimäe was also a significant draw, indicating a positive prior working relationship.

As a self-proclaimed “90s kid,” DiRaimondo found revisiting the era in which the play is set to be a nostalgic and insightful experience. “I love the 90s, so getting to revisit it as an adult is fun,” he reflects. He appreciates the distinct cultural landscape of the time, noting the absence of smartphones and social media, alongside a vibrant art scene. This personal connection to the era likely informs his portrayal of the various characters within that context.

The experience of embodying multiple “theatrical” characters has led to a significant personal discovery for DiRaimondo. “I’ve learned that once you think you are satisfied with establishing a character, you continue to discover new things to do with them,” he reveals. This ongoing process of exploration and refinement highlights his dedication to bringing depth and nuance to each of his roles.

DiRaimondo’s artistic inspirations are diverse and impactful. He expresses deep admiration for the late Robin Williams, recalling the awe he felt and his fortunate encounter with the comedic legend. He also cites the impressive range of Daniel Day-Lewis, Tom Hardy, and Giovanni Ribisi as significant influences, appreciating their ability to seamlessly transition between comedic and dramatic roles.

His mission as a performer is rooted in connection and authenticity. “My mission as a performer is to really engage the audience,” he states. “I want to be as authentic as I can and leave them thinking about the show long after it’s over.” This desire to create a lasting impact underscores his commitment to his craft.

Looking towards the future, DiRaimondo expresses a clear interest in expanding his involvement in film. “Yes, I want to be more involved in film,” he shares, indicating potential aspirations beyond the stage.

When it comes to his “audience,” DiRaimondo’s answer is deeply personal and heartwarming. He names his mother and brother as his most supportive viewers, along with a childhood friend who makes considerable effort to attend his performances and his “crazy family from Queens.” This strong support system undoubtedly fuels his passion and dedication.

DiRaimondo believes that “As Bees in Honey Drown” holds a particularly important message for fellow artists. “If you’re an artist and have thought of giving up or really doubted yourself, you should see this,” he advises, suggesting that the play’s themes of ambition, illusion, and the search for truth will resonate deeply with creative individuals.

The unique challenge of transitioning between multiple characters also presented a practical obstacle. “Transitioning from wig to wig is no joke,” DiRaimondo humorously remarks, offering a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes demands of his role.

Looking ahead, DiRaimondo hints at a potential film project in the summer. As he takes on the exciting task of bringing multiple characters to life in “As Bees in Honey Drown,” audiences can anticipate a dynamic and engaging performance from this versatile actor as he makes his debut with Modern Classics Theatre of Long Island.