Bringing diversity to ‘Anne’
J.J. Gerber is the first non-white actor to play Gilbert Blythe at Confederation Centre
Brampton, Ont., actor, J.J. Gerber, calls it an honour to be the first non-white to play Gilbert Blythe in this year’s Charlottetown Festival production of “Anne of Green Gables: The Musical’’.
Gerber’s mother is from Trinidad and Tobago, having emigrated to Canada in the 1980s. His father’s family has deep Canadian roots, nine generations, in fact.
Gerber said he can’t wait to bring more diversity to the Charlottetown Festival stage and to the role of Gilbert Blythe.
“So, so proud of that, absolutely. I think that’s what culture is now. Canada is a diverse place. I feel (like I am) the most Canadian having my father, who is numerous generations Canadian, and my mom, who emigrated here in her lifetime. That is what it is to be Canadian for me.’’
The 29-year-old actor has never visited P.E.I., but he feels a certain kinship to it already. He speaks about how his family helped found a couple of towns in Canada — one up north and one in British Columbia — and how they have always reminded him of Avonlea, the fictional community where the “Anne’’ story is based.
“For me, that’s why I was always such a huge fan of Avonlea,’’ Gerber told The Guardian on Friday.
“I had always pictured Avonlea (as this) middle of nowhere town with the best culture, people that are obsessed with each other and love each other and support each other through their farming and through love.’’
Gerber said landing the role of Gilbert is a dream come true. His family was so excited to hear the news that they literally booked 60 tickets to come to see the show.
“Oh my goodness, my entire family freaked out. They’ve already bought their tickets. My entire extended family is coming out. I’m completely serious,’’ he said, with a laugh, noting that one group will see the show in July while the other arrives in August.
As for whether he feels any extra pressure performing his dream role in front of family, there’s one person, in particular, he names.
“Oh yeah, I feel like anyone can’t really get away from their mother’s judging eyes,’’ he said. “No matter how old you get you definitely feel that, but I love her. (My family) have all been so supportive of me my entire life.’’
Ironically, Gerber originally auditioned for a role in the festival’s other production, “Jesus Christ Superstar’’. He even grew a beard expecting to be cast as a disciple.
“Anne’’ director and festival artistic director, Adam Brazier, asked him to shave the beard off and come back. As a result, he landed the role of Blythe.
Gerber said he’s been acting since he was three years old, first in church plays followed by community theatre.
He and his brothers also formed a breakdancing gig, performing with artists like Carly Rae Jepsen.
Eventually, he decided to return to musical theatre, enrolling in Sheridan College in Ontario. Many an actor from the Charlottetown Festival is familiar with Sheridan.
“I really loved it . . . I had the best education. They are so fantastic. No one can rival it.’’
Gerber moves to P.E.I. in May to prepare for “Anne’s” 54th season on June 18.
He also plans to release some music while he’s here.