Hometown: Warren Township, NJ
Education: BA
Select Credits: Carmen, Rosina, Cherubino, Hansel, Dido
Why theater?: I’m a classical singer who in recent years has enjoyed doing some musical theater and theater. I love learning a new character and being that character on stage. I love the kind of sacred process of making someone else’s words and music real to myself, and then hopefully to an audience, and the sharing that goes on between actors, as well as between actor and audience. I love the stories. I love the heart and art of making theater and its power to change.
Who do you play in Grand Theft Musical?: I play two roles. Rose Roseglass – an optimistic, joyful, stage mother who loves her life and even more, her son Ernest; and Chloe - an ex-lover of heartthrob Guy Loverly
Tell us about Grand Theft Musical: It’s a farcical musical that borrows from musicals of the past (hence the title). There is a Broadway show designed to fail, mobsters looming, unfulfilled love, devoted love; oversexed stars of the stage, a stripper with a heart of gold…. It’s fun-filled and silly, with poignant moments and lovely music, and a terrific cast of performers bringing all the fun to life.
What is it like being a part of Grand Theft Musical?: It is great fun working with this talented and hilarious cast and crew. Lissa Moira, our director and playwright, imbues all her productions with joy and depth. Over time, she’s created a bit of a troupe by working again and again with favorite actors, many of whom are cast members in this production, and I think this sense of ensemble adds to the overall experience for audience and actors alike.
What kind of theater speaks to you? What or who inspires you as an artist?: Comedy, on the one hand, and psychological drama on the other. Some favorite inspirations: Stephen Colbert (our dog is named Colby), Carol Burnett, Maya Angelou, Joyce DiDinato.
Any roles you’re dying to play?: I’m still new to theater roles, so I’m open! I’ve always wanted to sing Mimi in La Boheme. As a mezzo, that hasn’t been an option, but stay tuned….
What’s your favorite showtune?: "Finishing the Hat"; "Mr. Snow"; "How Could I Ever Know"; "It Ain’t Necessarily So."
If you could work with anyone you’ve yet to work with, who would it be?: Not to sound ridiculous, but who wouldn’t I like to work with? I admire and love so many actors.
Who would play you in a movie about yourself, and what would it be called?: How about Frances McDormand? Title: "That Wasn’t Even My Worst Stepmother"
If you could go back in time and see any play or musical you missed, what would it be?: Angels in America
What show have you recommended to your friends?: Tristan und Isolde at the Met
What’s your biggest guilty pleasure?: Gritty psychological crime dramas.
What’s up next?: A weekend with American Bolero Dance (Spanish and Flamenco) Company in June at the Secret Theater in Queens.