Actor expressions joy over taking the main part in a bilingual adaptation of 'The Taming of the Shrew'
In the heart of North Texas, Omar Padilla has become a familiar face, performing with virtually every major local company since 2014. His journey began in 2009 when he moved to Dallas, already in his mid-20s, with a dream of becoming a film actor despite a lack of formal training.
Padilla's first taste of Shakespeare came with the company 'Shakespeare in the Bar.' It was an unexpected love affair that soon became a passion. Despite his lack of experience with the Bard, he embraced the challenge and never looked back.
His Spanish accent, initially perceived as a potential obstacle for non-Hispanic roles, did not deter him. Instead, he found his niche in the local Latino theatre scene, auditioning for and performing with various companies after his move to Dallas.
After graduating from university with a degree in communications, Padilla's desire to pursue a film career remained strong. His break came in 2017 when he was invited to portray the Fool in a production of King Lear by fellow actor Marcus Stimac.
This year, Padilla has been particularly active. He played Lucio in Measure for Measure for Shakespeare Dallas in January, and now, he takes on his first lead role in a Shakespeare production - Petruchio in a bilingual adaptation of The Taming of the Shrew.
The production, set in 1880s San Antonio, features references to famed Mexican musicians such as Pedro Infante, Vicente Fernández, and Juan Gabriel, including some songs. This unique blend of Shakespeare and Mexican culture promises an exciting and vibrant performance.
Padilla's mother, the last of his immediate family to immigrate to the U.S. from Mexico, will be able to follow the story. She had a dream about him performing on stage in a play, a premonition that has now come true.
Despite the advice of his brother, a former university actor and current marketing director, who urged him against pursuing acting, Padilla has become one of the busiest actors in North Texas. He has performed with Dallas Theater Center, Theatre Three, Undermain, Kitchen Dog, Second Thought, and various Shakespeare troupes in town.
Padilla's inspiration comes from film stars like John Malkovich, Meryl Streep, and Sir Ian McKellen, who started in theater. He hopes to follow in their footsteps and continue to captivate audiences with his performances.
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