Hometown: New Baltimore, MI
Education: Musical Mondays at Splash
Select Credits: Off Broadway- Altar Boyz, My Big... Italian Wedding, The Donkey Show; National Tours- Hairspray, Cabaret, Altar Boyz.
Why theater?: I ask myself that same question everyday. I love the high from the live audience. I love how you never know if the show is gonna come together in time... and then it does. I love how the first day of rehearsal everyone is kinda shy and timid and then by the time you're open, you're a big family.
Tell us about The Groove Factory?: Set in 1999, New Years Eve. The story follows my character (Chazz) to New York City where he meets many interesting characters in the Nightlife World. A production with all Electronic/Dance music, it captures the freeness of the 90's era.
What is it like being a part of The Groove Factory?: "Sex, Drugs and Disco all Day!" One of my lines from the show and it IS just that... our props table has crack pipes on it, we have drag queens running around, 3 fabulous divas, rapping and vogue-ing.
What kind of theater speaks to you? What or who inspires you as an artist?: I am always drawn to Contemporary Theatre. Not a traditional boy at all. Don't want to see it, don't want to audition for it. I'm inspired by artists who take risks and create from the ground up. I'd much rather be part of a new production where I can explore and create a character of my own, rather than revive somebody else's creation.
Any roles you’re dying to play?: Jonathan in Tick Tick Boom or Gabe in Next to Normal. I would do those roles for no pay, for 2 weeks in Ohio. Just kidding, but you know what I mean.
What’s your favorite showtune?: "Making Whoopie" or anything by Jason Robert Brown.
If you could work with anyone you’ve yet to work with, who would it be?: LIZA!! Ha! I don't know. I just want her to tell me stories about Mama!
Who would play you in a movie about yourself and what would it be called?: "You say Tomato, I say Tommaso" starring Patrick Dempsy circa "Cant Buy Me Love"
What show have you recommended to your friends?: Pricilla! I Lived for that show!
What’s the best advice you can give someone trying to make it in theater?: Get out while you can!!!! JK, JK... Ugh, so many things. You are Enough, Don't wait by the phone, Dance is really important, Its not all about riffing, make strong acting choices, Save money, Keep taking class, Find Something else other than theatre that makes you happy, Actors are nuts, Know when to relax and have a drink, It's not that deep, its theatre.. we're not saving babies here....
What’s up next?: Unemployment and a Vacation