article by Jake Mendel

The American Theatre of Actors (ATA) is proud to present “¡Poof!”, a thought-provoking new play by Sarah Vindigni, featuring a familiar and celebrated face of the New York theater scene: Ken Coughlin. Playing the role of Todd Mandesfield, Coughlin brings decades of experience and a keen artistic sensibility to the Beckmann Stage from July 9th to 20th, as part of the “Laurie Rae Waugh Double Feature.”

The ATA, founded in 1976 by James Jennings, has served as a vital incubator for talent, fostering a creative atmosphere where playwrights, directors, and actors can develop their craft away from commercial pressures. Over its history, the ATA has seen more than 11,000 actors grace its stage, including such notable names as Dennis Quaid, Bruce Willis, and Edie Falco. Ken Coughlin stands as a testament to the ATA’s enduring impact, having been a consistent presence within its walls for an impressive tenure.

Coughlin, an award-winning actor and director, has been performing at the American Theatre of Actors since 1994. In the past 31 years, he has acted in over 100 plays, showcasing his versatility across numerous genres. His talents extend beyond acting to include singing, guitar playing, songwriting, directing, and even playwriting. A particularly cherished memory for Coughlin was the thrill of sharing the stage with his “extremely talented daughter Krista.”

What drew Coughlin to “¡Poof!”? The play’s premise, which features Union Activists taking over Metro Energy in NYC to demand changes by threatening to shut off the grid, resonated deeply with him. “I think this play is the kind of dream many of us wish would come true, especially in this current political climate,” Coughlin shares, adding that the play “only scratches the surface of the problems we face in a subverted capitalistic society.” This suggests a commitment to projects that address real-world issues, reflecting his thoughtful engagement with contemporary societal challenges. When asked if such a scenario could actually happen, Coughlin notes the current political fracturing, but holds onto a glimmer of hope, stating, “one can still hope” that people could coalesce around a single idea.

Coughlin’s creative process is a meticulous and logical one, perhaps influenced by his background in computer programming. He doesn’t just learn his lines; he immerses himself in the entire play, seeking to understand the motivations behind every character’s actions. During rehearsals, he observes his fellow actors’ choices, allowing them to inform and color his own performance. His logical mind often leads to “a number of discussions with my directors, and at times, with the playwrights,” as he questions anything that doesn’t appear absolutely logical. This collaborative yet questioning approach undoubtedly contributes to his nuanced portrayals.

When considering what ties “¡Poof!” to the other play in the double feature, Amy Losi’s “Love’s a Thin Diet,” Coughlin quickly identifies the common thread: “both are a study in addressing the abuse of power.” This highlights the overarching thematic relevance of the “Laurie Rae Waugh Double Feature,” presenting audiences with an evening of compelling narratives that delve into critical social issues.

Ken Coughlin’s dedication to the craft and his long-standing relationship with the American Theatre of Actors exemplify the enduring spirit of New York’s independent theater scene. His continued presence on stage is a testament to his passion for performance and his commitment to plays that not only entertain but also provoke thought and spark conversation.

As for what’s next for this veteran of the stage, Coughlin’s schedule remains packed. During the run of “¡Poof!”, he will be participating in a table read of “Dried Prunes,” a new play by Stephen S. Miller, also directed by Laurie Rae Waugh, with aspirations for an Off-Broadway run next year. Shortly after “¡Poof!” closes, Coughlin will open in “Seacoast of Chile” by Meny Biriro, directed by Ginger Kipps. After that, he simply states, “who knows,” embodying the dynamic and ever-evolving life of a dedicated theater artist.