Erika Ishii Dives into Dimension 20's Burrow's End, Misfits, Magic, and The Seven

Summary

Burrow's End is the twentieth season of Dimension 20 and takes a darker tone, exploring the mysteries of the Blue Forest.

The cast comprises a blend of seasoned members and fresh faces, resulting in an impressive dynamic and storytelling experience at the table. In an interview, Erika Ishii delves into her portrayal of Ava, discussing the relationships and dynamics she establishes with fellow characters, as well as her potential areas of exploration if The Seven and Misfits and Magic were to make a comeback.

Dimension 20 is commemorating its twentieth season with an exhilarating side quest called Burrow's End. Created by Aabria Iyengar, the first Game Master other than Brennan Lee Mulligan, this adventure explores the enigmatic depths of the Blue Forest. Drawing inspiration from beloved classics such as Watership Down and The Secret of Nihm, this captivating chapter follows a stoat family as they brave the perilous forest in search of a new home and uncover the secrets hidden within the Blue.

The esteemed cast of Dimension 20's latest season features longstanding members Mulligan, Siobhan Thompson, Erika Ishii, and Isabella Roland. Joining them in this thrilling journey are newcomers Jasper William Cartwright and Rashawn Nadine Scott, handpicked by Iyengar. While Dimension 20 is renowned for its comedic games, Burrow's End embraces the darkness and tragedy reminiscent of seasons like A Crown of Candy and The Ravening War.

Erika Ishii On Dimension 20: Burrow's End

Erika Ishii was recently interviewed exclusively on our website for her insights on Burrow's End, the current season of Dimension 20. She delves into the complexities of developing an unlikable character and reveals the intricacies of her interactions with the other players. Additionally, Ishii tantalizes us with her aspirations of potentially taking on the role of a game master in the future. She stuns us with her admiration for Iyengar's captivating storytelling and innovative approach to creativity.

Our website: Erika, so great to meet you. I love Ava. She is insane.

Erika Ishii: Absolutely! Thank you for the kind words.

Your ability to craft unique and diverse characters for each game you work on is truly remarkable. Could you please share with me your approach to character creation and what aspects of Ava's character are you particularly enthusiastic about delving into?

Erika Ishii expresses gratitude for having multiple opportunities to explore and experiment in her acting and storytelling. The character Ava came about through a process similar to what Abria refers to as "The Fill" in sports, where someone is needed to complete a team. Erika enjoyed this collaborative approach as ideas for different characters were shared, bringing them together as a family. She also relished portraying an unlikeable character in Ava, who says things that may be uncomfortable but add depth to the storytelling and character dynamics. Erika felt a sense of safety at the table, where everyone fully immersed themselves in their roles, creating a tight-knit dynamic from the start. Adding an unpleasant elderly woman to the mix was a wonderful experience for her.

As a performer, it is indeed challenging to create an unlikable yet compelling character, especially when writing them live. This character should not overshadow others, their interactions, or the overall story. However, it was interesting to explore why the other characters put up with Ava, aside from her being family. This season allowed for more flexibility in portraying the complexities of familial relationships. Family members are the ones who know how to annoy us the most, yet we still love them deeply. Now, let's discuss the various dynamics and approaches you took in portraying a mother, grandmother, and mother-in-law.

Erika Ishii expressed her enthusiasm for the cast's performances, particularly her chemistry with Brennan. She mentioned how Aabria's decision to pair her character with Brennan's was a pleasant surprise, as she enjoyed their dynamic and found it easy to portray their relationship on screen. Erika also highlighted the physicality of their scenes and how they were able to convey a lot about their characters in a short amount of time. Throughout the season, the cast members constantly found ways to surprise and support each other, with Erika playfully sharing how she teased Brennan's character.

Erika also discussed the dynamics between the characters and how they reflected her own thoughts on being a grandparent without wanting children of her own. She admired Rashawn's talent as a player, actor, and storyteller, particularly appreciating her reactions to Erika's character. She also praised Viola's and Jasper's performances, noting how their portrayals added depth and complexity to the scenes. Erika had a great time working with Jasper and recognized his ability to embody the nervousness and charm of his character. Overall, Erika expressed her joy and satisfaction with the cast's performances and the collaborative nature of the production.

And I can already see the clear theme emerging between these two, "You better not harm my daughter." It seems like Ava is the type of person who, when he arrived, would smack her raccoon baculum and assertively say, "Hey, check this out, I took this from a raccoon I killed when I was around your age," while intimidating him. But it's truly a blessing to instantly connect with everyone from the very first episode and understand their dynamics. It's just incredible to witness the strong bond they have as a family and the unwavering trust they have in each other as performers.

It's incredibly entertaining to watch. I also appreciate the fact that you possess a weapon, which serves as your means of defense.

Erika Ishii: Yes, Aabria and I made that decision early on. I can't recall the exact details, so I'll need to refer to the text or email, but I believe Aabria asked if I wanted a club or some other type of weapon, or if I would prefer to fight barehanded. I responded by expressing my interest in having a small bone club, although I can't remember which specific bone it was anymore. We had this incredible synergy, where one of us suggested using a dick bone, and the other added that it should definitely be from a raccoon as well.

Ava has undergone significant change in a very short period. The Warren and other stoats have disappeared, and she has now encountered an unfamiliar and peculiar group of stoats. How do you think she is coping with all of this?

Erika Ishii: It's enjoyable. Personally, as Erica, I consider myself adept at adapting. It comes with the territory as an improviser. When you're accustomed to a certain way of doing things and it has been crucial for your survival, it can be challenging to embrace change. However, as a storyteller, it's important to strike a balance. How can a character resist change and still drive the plot forward? I believe Brennan does an excellent job of this, by being resistant yet still propelling the narrative. In a similar vein, I have to admit that I dislike change and emotions; I prefer finding solutions.

But it's important to understand that we only have 10 episodes to tell a complete story with character development for everyone. Therefore, we need to maintain a fast pace. I believe Ava is interested in the idea because she wants what's best for the family, and she has learned to adapt in order to survive, even in the face of a difficult life. It reminds me of the message in the book "Call of the Wild" that we had to read, where it is crucial to adapt to survive, just like the laws of nature. Despite having a tendency to resist change, Ava also possesses an animal instinct to adapt and survive.

I really appreciate that aspect. Additionally, this season has been packed with surprises, such as the inclusion of animated puppet shows, the visually stunning and intense bear map, and the unexpected twists in the storyline. I'm curious to know, which part of this season has surprised you the most?

Erika Ishii compliments Aabria by highlighting her constant ability to surprise and innovate in each season of Dimension 20. Aabria's storytelling pushes boundaries and is somewhat unpredictable. She is well-versed in the rules and often referred to playfully as a "rules lawyer" alongside Brennan. Aabria's deep understanding of the rules allows her to manipulate and break them to enhance the storytelling experience. Erika admires how every aspect of the story, whether it be a fight or a social interaction, contributes to the central theme and progresses the narrative.

Erika provides an example of Aabria's brilliance in the inclusion of a bear in the second episode. The bear serves as a shocking and visually impressive battle map, showcasing Aabria's innovation and creativity. However, it also serves a deeper purpose by enabling the character Ava to explain the presence of technology in the world. Ava describes seeing humans in a non-bear form, which helps the audience grasp the context and navigate the story. The themes of humanity and technology are effectively explored through this encounter.

What were your initial thoughts when the new stoats revealed "Hey, humans are the enemy" in the latest episode?

Erika Ishii: I haven't finished watching the screener yet, but now that you mention it, I still have about half an hour left. Looking back, I was clueless. We were all just speculating about the Blue, the humans, and the mysteries of the burrows. We were trying to understand what was happening in real time. Aabria told me about seeing a vehicle and large beings and describing them. I had to piece together that they were humans in hazmat suits, and that the blue substance was significant. It's a long way to come back around and say that it was just shocking. Every step of the way was a surprise, and even though I had already guessed they were humans, it was still incredibly shocking to comprehend the gravity of it all. The unfathomable horror is terrifying to consider.

And then how does it feel to be a part of the 20th season of Dimension 20?

Erika Ishii: It's unbelievable. I was there from the beginning, in what we used to call side quests, before the Intrepid Heroes seasons. Looking at how far we've come, it's truly remarkable. Being a part of this journey with these amazing individuals is such an honor. This season is not just a milestone in terms of number, but a true testament to the remarkable work that Aabria and the team have accomplished and will continue to achieve.

I absolutely adore that. Additionally, you were part of two of my all-time favorite seasons, Misfits and Magic and The Seven. I genuinely hope we get the opportunity to explore more of both storylines! If that were to happen, is there something specific you would like to delve into with your characters from those seasons?

Erika Ishii: It's really funny because the decisions I make for my characters are heavily influenced by the GM and conversations with fellow players. When someone suggests that if your character did this, then it would make sense for my character to go in a certain direction, it's really special to me. These seasons were significant for me because they were full of firsts. The Seven was the first all-female table I've been a part of where we were truly allowed to be ourselves without worrying about being too much or having to hide our true selves. It's a constant struggle as a femme individual, always wondering if what you're doing is right or how it will impact how others perceive you. But being at a table with all femmes, led by a Brennan who knew when to support and when to step back, was incredibly liberating. We all supported each other in such a powerful way and I could feel the significance of it. We're still very close and talk to each other regularly. It was truly special.

And with Mis Mag, it was even more amazing because it was a season dominated by Black and BIPOC individuals. It was another gate I didn't have to cross in my mind. I felt safe to explore things that I might not have been comfortable exploring at a table where I'm in the minority. Having both my identities, as a femme and as a person of color, intertwined with the plot and supported by the characters was indescribable. So basically, what I want to continue doing is playing characters that I wouldn't typically get to play and doing things with them that I wouldn't normally feel empowered to do.

I absolutely adored that experience, and recently I had another incredible first time as a GM on Worlds Beyond Number.

Erika Ishii: Oh, yes! Once again, I was filled with terror because I didn't have the usual training. Imagine having your first game be something that people are actually paying to watch, and it's for your friends who are the absolute best in the world at this activity you're trying to lead. It was intense, but at the same time, all I received was love, support, and sheer madness from my friends. The community was incredibly encouraging too. When all is said and done, being in that room and sharing laughter and fun with everyone, and witnessing the joy of surprising and entertaining your friends, that's the most amazing feeling in the world. I believe that's what we all strive for in everything we do together – to pleasantly surprise and amuse our friends.

You were incredible! If you were to GM in the dome, is there a specific genre you would prefer to delve into?

Erika Ishii: Definitely! GMing in the dome isn't solely about the DMing aspect, that's only a small portion of it. The majority involves attending meetings, coordinating with people via email regarding miniatures and sets, and designing characters. It entails a significant amount of paperwork, and I'm uncertain about how ambitious I want to be in taking on such a responsibility. However, I do have a framework in mind that I'm excited to explore. Perhaps I should keep it a secret, just in case they ever approach me. But honestly, that would be unbelievable. Despite that, if they were to ask me, I would definitely accept. I'm too curious about the entire process.

Well, now I feel like we need that because I need to know the answer.

Erika Ishii: I have an idea that I think could work. It would utilize the unique skills of the individuals in the dome and the advanced technology they have access to, as well as the impressive work of the art team. You've got me excited now.

I really hope we have the opportunity to see it come to life. As a big fan of Critical Role, I also want to express gratitude for being one of the reasons Laudna and Imogen are together. Thank you for being a catalyst in making that happen.

Erika Ishii: Thank you. As a guest on a show, there is a limited window to establish your character, go through a storyline, and seamlessly integrate and exit from an ongoing game. I had specific goals in mind, and I appreciate that Matt was open to many of the things we did. Coming from shorter seasons, I tend to dive into the story without hesitation. Stories need to unfold. They won't unravel on their own.

It's truly wonderful. And what aspects of playing Ava have surprised you the most, and what have you discovered about yourself through this experience?

Erika Ishii: What did I discover about myself? There wasn't a specific defining moment or a decisive encounter with Ava. However, I can confidently say that portraying an antagonistic character is incredibly enjoyable and fulfilling, especially when surrounded by individuals who are willing to challenge and progress alongside you. I've come to realize that I have a strong inclination towards playing villainous roles, and that is the key insight I've gained. I appreciate the presence of such characters.

Erika Ishii: Thank you. Yeah, it feels good to be bad.

Erika Ishii: Additionally, there was an unspoken adjustment in our mindset regarding distance. It's not exactly 10 feet, that would be unreasonable. However, the constant engagement in action and the multitude of actions I could take per turn made it incredibly enjoyable. Now, how did we modify the mechanics for the barbarian element with regards to stoats? It was truly exhilarating to make the decision to maintain the roll that resulted in terrible outcomes, such as rolling all ones, and having a charisma score of just three. The only alteration we made was allowing me to use strength instead of charisma for intimidation, which seemed fitting.

Yeah. Ava having a three charisma is not only just perfect, character wise, it is hilarious.

Erika Ishii: Oh, it's so good. It was so good and so fun.

I absolutely adore it. Thank you deeply for dedicating your time to speak with me. I have immense affection for Burrow's End and cannot contain my excitement for what lies ahead. Ava's humor is truly remarkable.

Erika Ishii: Your utmost gratitude means the world to me. I genuinely appreciate it. Many thanks for the thought-provoking questions. Moreover, your unwavering support and love for Dimension 20 are immensely valued.

I will watch whatever Dimension 20 puts out even when it traumatizes me. I'm in.

Erika Ishii: Yeah. Bless you for that. Yeah, Burrow's End is very, very, very special to me.

About Dimension 20: Burrow's End

Explore our collection of interviews for the other dimensions of Burrow's End in the captivating Blue Forest. This enthralling story revolves around a determined family of stoats led by matriarch Ava, along with adult sisters Tula and Viola, Viola's husband Thorn Vale, and Tula's children Jaysohn and Lila. Witness their formerly tranquil lives being jeopardized by both natural and supernatural elements. Don't miss out!

Aabria Iyengar

Siobhan Thompson

Brennan Lee Mulligan

New episodes of Dimension 20's Burrow's End debut on Dropout every Wednesday.