Jay Schweitzer as the defendant in Witness for the Prosecution

SBINSIDER EXCLUSIVE BROADWAY REPORTER | March 14th, 2025

Editors Note: In support of our outstanding local talents, SBINSIDER interviews another of the leading players in the upcoming production of “Witness for the Prosecution.” This instalment is Jay Schweitzer in the role of the accused, Leonard Vole. We caught up with Jay at the Pickleball courts.

SBINSIDER: Jay, when did you first become interested in acting, and what was your first role on stage?

JS: I first became interested in acting while watching my 2 sons perform in high school and college. It intrigued me. So as retirement approached, giving acting a try was near the top of my list. I always say my sons “payed it backwards”

SBINSIDER: How long have you been a part of Community Circle Players (CCP) and what roles have you played?

JS: I have been with CCP for 6 years. My fellow actors and directors have taught me so very much about characterization, about performing on stage and so much more.
My previous roles have been:
-Don’t Drink the Water: Axel Magee-a clueless son of a diplomat
-The Outsider: Dave, the devoted aide to the reluctant but intelligent governor
-Intermission-One Act: Bill-a husband and wife deciding upon leaving (a play or their marriage?)
-Curious Savage: Hannibal-an amiable but confused violin player
-Spook Light Legacy: Michael-a spooky but kind hearted ghost
-Agatha Mysterie: Rob Remington-a charming private detective

SBINSIDER: What role do you consider your best work thus far, and was there a role that you would like to play again?

I consider my present role as Leonard Vole, an accused murderer, to be my best work thus far. This role allows for more range of emotions and greater characterization.

SBINSIDER: Your character in “Witness,” Leonard Vole as the suspect, has an extensive amount of lines that require memorization. Is this the most challenging role you have played from that aspect?

JS:I have about 400 lines to memorize in this play. In The Outsider it was about 600. It’s a lot of work memorizing these lines. But many of my lines are so important to the storyline and therefore must be delivered to the audience exactly as intended by Agatha Christie.

SBINSIDER: Had you seen the movie or stage play of Witness for the Prosecution, prior to taking on the role?

JS:I had not seen the movie or the play of Witness for the Prosecution prior to being cast. However, in doing my research for the role I definitely watched and read as much as I could find. I am certainly biased, but I believe CCPs production and performance of Witness for the Prosecution will be the best of all that I have seen previously.

SBINSIDER: What do you look for in a role/script before you to try out for the part?

JS:I thoroughly enjoy being on stage, so naturally I prefer lead roles as an actor. However, I tend to look for a role that stands out in some way or perhaps presents a challenge in some way as an actor.

SBINSIDER: Have you ever directed? Would you consider doing so?

JS: I have never directed and likely never will. For me, it is difficult enough trying to figure out jus one role. I can’t imagine trying to direct others in five-fifteen roles! But I greatly respect those in CCP who are directing. They are so excellent and talented.

SBINSIDER: Where did you live before moving to SaddleBrooke?

Prior to moving to SaddleBrooke, my wife Susan (the costume coordinator) and I lived near Palm Springs, Ca. where we raised our two sons. I am a retired Nurse Anesthetist. Curious to some may be that I officiated in NCAA Div. 1 basketball for sixteen years including three times being selected to officiate in March Madness. Go Wildcats!

SBINSIDER: Besides acting, what other in what other SaddleBrooke activities do you indulge?

JW: Besides acting, I am heavily involved in pickleball and softball. Gardening satisfies my midwest roots.