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Monday, July 9, 2012

Spotlight On...Anita Welch

Name: Anita Welch

Hometown: Fresno, California

Education: American Musical and Dramatic Academy

Select Credits:
Avenue Q (Gary Coleman, Asian & North American Tour); Roofless (Sela, Theatre at St, Clements); Dreamgirls (Effie White, Coastal Arts Center); Passing Strange (Edwina, Subabay, Marianna, W.H.A.T); Ain't Misbehavin (Charlayne, New Harmony Rep)

Why theater?: I was a shy and awkward little girl who loved to sing. My parents introduced me to movies like "Singing in the Rain", "Rhapsody in Blue", "Annie", and "The Five Heartbeats". For my birthday they took me to see Annie live. I fell in love. My mother convinced me to audition for the school play, and suddenly I wasn't so awkward and a little less shy.

Tell us about STUCK: Imagine being stuck underground in the subway for hours with a bunch of random people you would have otherwise ignored. The awkwardness, tension, and stress. You may discover that you all aren't that different, may even have something to contribute to the person next to you. That's STUCK.

What is it like being a part of STUCK?: I am working with a kindhearted, talented, and funny group of people. I get to be a sponge and take it all in. That's the best part


What kind of theater speaks to you? What or who inspires you as an artist?:
If it is honest it moves and inspires me


Any roles you’re dying to play?: No, not anymore. When I first graduated I had a list of all the roles I was dying to play, but then something wonderful happened. I didn't play any of them. Instead I keep getting cast and called in for roles I never would have imagined. Playing very strong leading ladies, new works, and even a man. I have decided not to "put a box on God" and just see what happens. 


What’s your favorite showtune?: "On a Clear Day"

If you could work with anyone you’ve yet to work with, who would it be?: Audra McDonald. 


Who would play you in a movie about yourself and what would it be called?: Um, Angela Basset, and I have no idea what to call it. Haha


What show have you recommended to your friends?: Porgy and Bess

What’s up next?: I don't know yet. I'm very excited to see... I'll get back to you

For more on STUCK, visit  http://www.nymf.org/stuck