Advice “IRL” with the Cast of Tiny Beautiful Things: Robert Moore

OpenStage’s upcoming production Tiny Beautiful Things follows the relationships between online advice columnist Sugar and the many real-life readers who share their most intimate secrets with her. The play is staged as Sugar sits at home behind a laptop, the actors voicing their letters aloud to Sugar. Sugar replies aloud with advice wrapped around pieces of her life story. 

Inspired by the “Dear Sugar” advice column, I asked the cast to give their own take on some of the most popular advice column questions asked “in-real-life”.

Robert Moore is the Company Representative to the OpenStage Board of Directors for the 2020-2021 season. Robert played Teddy and was in the ensemble of last season’s The Full Monty. For the last five years, he has been a Gifted Education teacher, served as a coach for Chess and Spelling Bee, as well as being a Regional Challenge Master for Destination ImagiNation Colorado. Robert currently sits on the Thompson School District Gifted and Talented Advisory Council, and he is also a singer/songwriter working on his sixth musical project.

How can I get over my fear of failure?

Have a growth mindset. Surround yourself with inspiration and encouragement. Soften the blow by making your expectations malleable. Don’t focus so much on the endgame. You should be more afraid of being perfect! Perfectionism is a bore! Fail fabulously, it makes for a much more interesting journey.

How can I make the most of every day?

Take in the world around you on your own accord rather than how you’re told to. Make your own rules that work for you. You are the author and the main character of your story, be driven by that.

How do I stop worrying about what other people think of me?

You have to be on your own team. We all want to be validated, but those around you should already be thinking the best of you. If they’re not, get rid of them!

How do you know when you’re in love?

It’s like Rupaul says, “if you can’t love yourself how in the hell are you going to love somebody else? Can I get an amen up in here?” Start with you.

Directed by Kate Austin-Gröen

Playing May 28 – June 12, 2021

Based on the best-selling book by Cheryl Strayed and adapted by Nia Vardalos for the stage – this play is about recognizing the chaos, healing when you are broken, and finding the spirit and determination to move on. Content Warning: This show discusses topics of child abuse, sexual abuse/assault, and drug abuse. Recommended for ages 16 and up/parent’s discretion.