Storm Marrero (center) as Venus
Photo Credit: Mark Shelby Perry

In Company XIV’s newest show – based on the Judgement of Paris myth – Paris might be the title character, but the goddesses are the real stars of the show. These three talented performers tower above us mere mortals, their audience, in lavish gowns and high heels, and each of them gets multiple solos to show off their stunning voices.

Just before the final weekend of Paris, Venus (Storm Marrero), Athena (Marcy Richardson), and Juno (Randall Scotting) took the time to answer a few questions about playing divine beings on-stage and what they admire most about their fellow goddesses.

What is your favorite moment in the show for your character?

My absolute favorite moment is when Venus interrupts Juno (Randall Scotting), towards the end of Randall Scottings’ rendition of “I’m Your Man.” The connection between Venus and Paris, Venus’ desperate try to win the apple. I love the comedic interaction between Venus and Juno, and how Fifi (Charlotte Bydwell) interjects, pulling Venus away. It’s one of few times where the goddesses interact with each other.

All the goddesses are, well, goddesses, but pick a moment in the show featuring one of the other goddesses that takes your breath away.

It is extremely difficult to pick just one moment, because Marcy Richardson and Randall Scotting are true forces of nature. Randall’s voice is unbelievable. His introduction/entrance as Juno is mind-boggling, and he delivers with such grace, effortless. And Marcy as Athena, the life and power she gives to her character is undeniable.

Marcy Richardson as Athena on pole
Photo Credit: Mark Shelby Perry

If nothing else and I have to pick just one, it has to be when Marcy sings “Skyfall” while performing her amazing acrobatics on the pole. Her vocal skill combined with her physical agility always gives me chills.

If you had to sum up your goddess in a song, what song would it be?

If I have to sum up Venus in one song it has to be “Youth” by the band Daughter. It presents the realities and the different perspectives of love, its equal balance of beauty and pain.

During the play, it is a true and honest moment between Venus and Paris. I love interacting with Jakob Karr (Paris), and we feed off of each others’ emotions. So the delivery of the song is that much more powerful.

What is the most challenging aspect of a Company XIV production?

This is a first for me, working in a production of this caliber, so I’m learning and absorbing so much. I did minor theater working many years ago when I lived in Puerto Rico. But it was nothing compared to this. I honestly love every moment of the process. The challenge for me is more on a personal level, making sure I deliver a quality performance every night with the same fire I delivered on opening night. Oh! And wearing high heels every night.

Marcy Richardson as Athena singing
Photo Credit: Mark Shelby Perry

If you had the golden apple to give, which goddess would you give it to and why?

I would definitely NOT give it to Venus, being that she was the cause of one of the deadliest wars in history. And what a contrast, the goddess of love and beauty being the initiator of so much death. If anything, I’d give it to Athena, for she offers wisdom, and we all need some of that.

Paris is running through Saturday, November 12 at the Irondale Center in Brooklyn. Balcony tickets starting at only $25. For tickets, click here or call 866-811-4111, and check out the full Paris photo gallery here and a rundown of the 5 times Paris made my jaw hit the ground.