Broadway Book Chat

Broadway Book Chat: Deanna Doyle from An American In Paris

It's Liberation Day.

As an actor, every job you do, you make a new family.  There is something special about theatre and its ability to bring people together in a way that is unlike any other.  I have made so many amazing friends throughout my career, and many of them share my love of books and literature.  Since theatre brings stories to life, I thought I would feature some of my favorite performers (my fabulous friends and castmates) and see what their bookshelves look like! Welcome to my Broadway Book Chat!

Deanna Doyle

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Most recently seen as Lise in An American in Paris at Westchester Broadway Theatre

 www.deanna-doyle.com

instagram: @Deannadoyle8 


What are you currently reading?

I am currently reading What Alice Forgot. It is my first Liane Moriarty book, and I love it. It is smart, funny, sentimental, and I can’t put it down.

What is your favorite book series?

I have been looking for a book series to get into for a really long time. For such an avid reader, I can’t believe I don’t yet have one! I’ve tried several and haven’t been especially drawn to any, but I’m still determined to find one. The closest I’ve come is Agatha Christie’s Hercule Poirot series. I enjoy them, but not enough to read through them back to back. I’d love to find something that I just can’t put down and have to go from one book to the next. Life goals.

Who is your favorite author?

As cliche as it may sound, I have to say Jane Austen. I would feel disloyal to say anyone else.

What book inspires you and why?

I’m reading a lot of books by Thich Nhat Hanh. He is a Vietnamese Buddhist monk who writes a lot of short books meant to inspire. He has a series (a series that I read!) of tiny inspirational books with titles such as How to Sit, How to Relax, How to Love, and How to Fight. They are sweet and insightful and great reminders of the beauty of life. Over the past year, I have always had at least one of his books checked out at the library, usually more. Right now 5 of the 17 books I have checked out from the library are his, and I am currently reading The Art of Communication.

Which literary character would you like to play?IMG_0001

Anne Shirley of Anne of Green Gables or Elizabeth Bennet of Pride and Prejudice.

If you could be friends with any of the characters you have read about, who would it be and why?

When I was little I was obsessed with the Encyclopedia Brown books. I thought it would be cool to be friends with boy detective Leroy Brown so that I could help solve his cases.

What book would you like to see made into a musical/play/movie?

One of my favorite books that I read this year is a book called Leaving Time by Jodi Picoult. It was really beautiful, and I think it would make a lovely movie.

What is the next book on your reading list?

My Lovely Wife by Samantha Downing is next on my list. It’s a thriller. I’ve recently gotten into thrillers, but sometimes I can’t read them when I’m at home by myself, especially in the bathtub. That just seems too scary, so I often have to wait until my boyfriend comes home to indulge.

Have you ever thought about writing yourself?

Yes! I have always loved to write and have thought that if I was not a performer then I would be a writer because they both fulfill my need for self-expression. A few months ago I finished the first draft of a novel and right now I am taking a break from it. Come January, I will revisit it with fresh eyes to write a second draft.

What is your favorite show you’ve been a part of and why?

A show that will always be close to my heart is Phantom of the Opera because it was my Broadway debut. I played Meg Giry and I really love that role.


I feature a new performer every month, so check back for our next guest! I would really love some suggestions for new questions you would like to ask, or things you want to know.  Leave them in the comments and I will add them to future interviews! Shout out to the fabulous Deanna for sharing with us! 🙂

 

Broadway Book Chat

Broadway Book Chat: Chuckie Benson from The Color Purple

It's Liberation Day.As an actor, every job you do, you make a new family.  There is something special about theatre and its ability to bring people together in a way that is unlike any other.  I have made so many amazing friends throughout my career, and many of them share my love of books and literature.  Since theatre brings stories to life, I thought I would feature some of my favorite performers (my fabulous friends and castmates) and see what their bookshelves look like! Welcome to my Broadway Book Chat!

Chuckie Benson

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Currently playing Harpo in The Color Purple at Drury Lane Theatre in Chicago

instagram: @chuckie.benson

What are you currently reading?

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The Water Dancer by Ta-Nehisi Coates

What is your favorite book series?

Twilight Series by Stephanie Meyer lol it got me through some rough times!

Who is your favorite author?

Alice Walker, Sapphire,  and Eric Jerome Dickey.

What book inspires you and why?

The Color Purple by Alice Walker. It was one of the first books that I couldn’t put down and read it the first day I got it. So powerful. Granted I was raised on the movie so I had knowledge of it, but the book has so much detail and so much depth that the movie didn’t really touch on. Alice Walker really captures the pain, beauty and triumph of a strong black woman. This story is a true classic. It inspires me to keep going, to keep believing. Holding on to my faith. Knowing love is possible in the midst of chaos.

Which literary character would you like to play?

I’ve played some of my favorites literary characters actually: Coalhouse Walker Jr. in Ragtime, Jim in Huckleberry Finn (Big River), The Ghost of Christmas Present in A Christmas Carol, and Harpo in The Color Purple.

 

74169215_956730734691822_3606720871537836032_nIf you could be friends with any of the characters you have played, who would it be and why?

Tom Collins (RENT) He’s so laid back. Charming. Very loveable and fun to be around.

What book would you like to see made into a musical/play/movie?

A Child Called It by Dave Pelzer. Wow, what a powerful movie that would be.

What is the next book on your reading list?

I want to finish the Indebted Series by Pepper Winters.

Have you ever thought about writing yourself?

Yes, I actually do write. I wore a full-length play and screenplay when I was 12.

What show are you currently in and what was the last show you were a part of?74607735_3124271740932675_1035241509525389312_n

Currently playing Harpo in The Color Purple at Drury Lane Theatre. I recently just got off my first National Tour, Spamilton: An American Parody and I played George Washington and others.

What is your favorite show you’ve been a part of and why?

Each experience is a different experience. I learned a lot from each show that I’ve done thus far. I really loved doing HAIR in Chicago, it was just a beautiful experience with an amazing Tribe that was full of Chicago’s finest. RENT. I’ve done this show professionally twice and each time was so profound and beautiful.


I feature a new performer every month, so check back for our next guest! I would really love some suggestions for new questions you would like to ask, or things you want to know.  Leave them in the comments and I will add them to future interviews! Thanks to my dear friend Chuckie for sharing with us ❤
Broadway Book Chat

Broadway Book Chat: Ben Bogen from Frozen

It's Liberation Day.

As an actor, every job you do, you make a new family.  There is something special about theatre and its ability to bring people together in a way that is unlike any other.  I have made so many amazing friends throughout my career, and many of them share my love of books and literature.  Since theatre brings stories to life, I thought I would feature some of my favorite performers (my fabulous friends and castmates) and see what their bookshelves look like! Welcome to my Broadway Book Chat!

Ben Bogen

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Currently performing in Broadway’s Frozen!

instagram: @benmbogen


What are you currently reading?

The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron

What is your favorite book series?

The Hunger Games by Suanne Collins

Who is your favorite author?

Lemony Snicket

What book inspires you and why?

Too Much Is Not Enough and Without You– Andrew Rannell’s autobiography and Anthony Rapp’s autobiography.  Both really inspired me because they both started out as young gay men struggling to make it in this industry. I found it very relatable. It’s a reminder that everyone starts somewhere before they become the “successful” people everyone knows about.

Which literary character would you like to play?

One day when I am in my late 30’s/early 40’s I would like to play Harry Potter in Cursed Child more than anything in the whole world.

If you could be friends with any of the characters you have played, who would it be IMG_7611and why?

I think to be friends with Pepper in Mamma Mia would be a total blast because he’s energetic like me haha
What book would you like to see made into a musical/play/movie?

I think A Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket would be a really cool musical, and I think Call Me By Your Name André Aciman would be a beautiful straight play.

What is the next book on your reading list?

I’ve been wanting to read Tina Fey’s book for a while, so I think maybe that next? I’m really into autobiographies lately.  I also have been wanting to read Wild, the book that inspired the Reese Witherspoon movie.

Have you ever thought about writing yourself?

I try to journal a lot, but I constantly judge my writing when I actually do write. I used to write scripts for kid theatre camp shows back home and I always enjoyed it though.

What show are you currently in?

I’m currently in Frozen on Broadway in the ensemble understudying Olaf and Duke Weselton.

What is your favorite show you’ve been a part of and why?

My favorite show I’ve ever been a part of is Jersey Boys because I got to go on for Frankie Valli almost 50 times which was the first time I ever had to carry an entire show before. It was the hardest thing I’ve ever done and the most satisfying marathon of a role I’ll probably ever play.


I feature a new performer every month, so check back for our next guest! I would really love some suggestions for new questions you would like to ask, or things you want to know.  Leave them in the comments and I will add them to future interviews! Shout out to my friend Ben for sharing with us 🙂

Broadway Book Chat

Broadway Book Chat: Liz Schmitz from Cats

It's Liberation Day.

As an actor, every job you do, you make a new family.  There is something special about theatre and its ability to bring people together in a way that is unlike any other.  I have made so many amazing friends throughout my career, and many of them share my love of books and literature.  Since theatre brings stories to life, I thought I would feature some of my favorite performers (my fabulous friends and cast mates) and see what their bookshelves look like! Welcome to my Broadway Book Chat!

Liz Schmitz

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Currently playing Demeter in the National Tour of Cats!

www.lizschmitz.com

Instagram: @lizschmitz

What are you currently reading?IMG_2310

Oathbringer: Book Three of The Stormlight Archive by Brandon Sanderson

What is your favorite book series?

Harry Potter will always be my favorite. It reminds me of childhood, my family. It’s grounding.

Who is your favorite author?

Jane Austin. I always feels like she talking to me, or really gossiping with me.

What book inspires you and why?

Book inspire me when there is a strong friend or family group. It reminds me what’s really important.

Which literary character would you like to play?

I’d love to play Emma, from Emma by Jane Austin.  Or Stephanie Brown, aka Robin of Batman and Robin. There haven’t been many female Robins, I love the twist!

IMG_2309If you could be friends with any of the characters you have played, who would it be and why?

I loved Anna from Spring Awakening. She had good ideas and a good heart. She had an open, loving view of the world and future.

What book would you like to see made into a musical/play/movie?

I’d like to see the Pendragon series by D.J. MacHale into a tv show!

What is the next book on your reading list?

In the fantasy world I’ll read Mistborn, more Brandon Sanderson! But I could use some historical romance from The American Heiress by Daisy Goodwin first!

Have you ever thought about writing yourself?

If I wrote, it would be short stories. Or perhaps philosophical, and potentially theoretical, musings.

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What is your favorite show you’ve been a part of and why?

Matilda. It was so many things. It was my first big credit, I swung 7 tracks, and it helped me pick myself up out of a dark place. And most importantly, the story is important. The message is relevant and good. “Even if you’re little you can do a lot…Nobody else is gonna put it right for me. Nobody but me is gonna change my story.”

 


See Liz (and yours truly) around the US in Cats! Click here for tickets and tour stops!

I feature a new performer every month, so check back in April for our next guest! I would really love some suggestions for new questions you would like to ask, or things you want to know. Leave them in the comments and I will add them to future interviews! Shout out to my stage partner in crime, Liz, for sharing with us ❤

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Monthly Wrap-Ups

January 2019 Wrap-Up

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January was a crazy whirl-wind of getting Cats up and running! I didn’t have much time to read or blog as I was in rehearsal non-stop and I missed a few posts, but the show is finally open and we have begun touring the country!  I managed to get in a few books while soaking my sore muscles in the bath, and found some amazing bookstores in our first city, Providence, RI.  I can’t wait to see the stores all over the country! 🙂

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Books Read:

Only a Breath Apart by Katie McGarry★★★★

Furyborn by Claire Legrand★★★

Dark of the West by Joanna Hathaway★★★

To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before by Jenny Han★★


Favorite Book of the Month:

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Currently Reading:

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Challenges:

Goodreads Challenge: 4 of 100

Classics Club Challenge: 4 of 50- I swear I WILL make progress on this one this year!


Broadway Book Chat: Kaylee Olson

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January Reviews

Valley of the Dolls by Jacqueline Susann• ARC Review: Only a Breath Apart by Katie McGarry • ARC Review: Dark of the West by Joanna Hathaway

January Posts

Top 10 Tuesday: Most Anticipated Releases for the First Half of 2019Cleaning Up My TBR: Down the TBR Hole #7 • Top 10 Tuesday: Authors I Found in 2018 • Top 10 Tuesday: Books I Meant to Read in 2018 • Top 10 Tuesday: 10 Most Recent Additions to My To-Read List •

 

Broadway Book Chat

Broadway Book Chat: Kaylee Olson

It's Liberation Day.

As an actor, every job you do, you make a new family.  There is something special about theatre and its ability to bring people together in a way that is unlike any other.  I have made so many amazing friends throughout my career, and many of them share my love of books and literature.  Since theatre brings stories to life, I thought I would feature some of my favorite performers (my fabulous friends and cast mates) and see what their bookshelves look like! Welcome to my Broadway Book Chat!

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Kaylee Olson

Currently in Chicago at The Fulton Theatre

Instagram: @kaylee.is.the.olson


What are you currently reading?

I am currently reading- well, I am one chapter away from finishing- Kushiel’s Dart by Jacqueline Carey, I just picked up Don’t You Cry by Mary Kubica at the supermarket, and I was in the middle of The Power by Naomi Alderman when I had to give it back to the library before leaving town for a contract. I like to read one book at a time, but occasionally I get caught up in a couple different stories.

What is your favorite book series?

My favorite book series would probably align with my favorite authors growing up. I adore everything that Tamora Pierce has ever written. But two of my favorites would be the Trickster’s Duet, and the Beka Cooper Series.  Which happen to be outliers from Tamora Pierce’s very first fantasy series (Song of the Lioness), which makes the interweaving story lines all the more fun! I was also impacted by the Bloody Jack series by L.A. Meyer. As the swashbuckling historical fiction greatly attracted my adventurous spirit.

What book inspires you and why?

When I need some inspiration, I turn to the book Terrier by Tamora Pierce. The story of a girl moving out of her family home to a rough city to pursue her dream and overcome her weaknesses to be the best she can- is a tale that I find highly relatable. Plus I love a little magic and crime thrown in the mix as well!

Which literary character would you like to play?

If I could play any literary character, I would play Delilah Bard from A Darker Shade of Magic by V.E. Schwab. She is a badass thief with a mysterious past and an even more mysterious future. She’s cool, tough, resourceful and ambitious. Besides, if this book was on stage it would probably have some super cool combat-dancing musical numbers.

If you could be friends with any of the characters you have played who would it be and why?

As a strong member of the ensemble, I tend to play a multitude of characters in a single show. If I could befriend any of those characters, I think I’d like to hang out with “Daisy” my show girl character from the show Bullets over Broadway. She seems like a sassy, flirty kind of gal, who would know all the good speakeasies in the 1920’s.

What book would you like to see made into a movie/musical/play?50452730_241543356599567_4665375377370120192_n

If I could see a book brought to life, then I think Ink Mage from the Fire beneath the Skin Trilogy by Victor Gischler would be a fascinating movie. The visible element of tattoos providing magical power to help a deposed duchess regain her throne… sounds like I need some popcorn. Or, if I could see a book turned into a musical- that I could perform in, of course- I think that the book Caraval by Stephanie Garber would be fabulous. Two sisters swept away to the biggest most elaborate carnival-like performance, inlaid with a game where reality is challenged but the stakes are exceedingly high. I think they might need some showgirls in a musical like that. I’m pretty good at being a showgirl…

What is the next book on your reading list?

The next book on my hit list will be book 2 of the Kushiel’s Legacy trilogy by Jacqueline Carey, Kushiel’s Chosen. Because one cannot start a trilogy and not complete it!

Have you ever thought about writing yourself?

Once upon a time I had a thought in my head of being a writer. Then I realized, that it’s wicked hard; plots and story arcs and the proper use of semicolons was a bit more of a challenge then I knew how to tackle. If I ever find a story to tell, I may reconsider, but for now I’ll stick to book reading instead of book writing.

What show are you currently working on?

Tonight is opening night for me! I will be performing in a production of Chicago at the Fulton Theatre, dancing in the ensemble as well as playing Liz (one of the “Cellblock Tango” girls). Which will be my first speaking part EVER, so wish me luck!!

What is your favorite show you have been a part of and why?

This production of Chicago is turning out to be quite spectacular! This glitzy, vaudeville version has been uniquely original and supremely enjoyable. But other than this most recent credit, the most gratifying show I have ever been a part of was Susan Stroman’s Crazy for You. I was honored to be a part of the 25th anniversary concert performance at Lincoln Center. To have the chance to work with the strong, incredibly brilliant, and legendary Susan Stroman, was an experience I will treasure for the rest of my days. The pinnacle of my career thus far, but only the beginning of my hopes and dreams for the future.


Happy Opening to Kaylee and the rest of the cast of Chicago at The Fulton Theatre! ❤


I feature a new performer every month! I would love some suggestions for questions you would like to ask, or things you want to know!  Leave them in the comments and I will add them to future interviews! Thank you to my dear friend, Kaylee, for sharing with us! I love you so much!

Book Reviews · Reading Challenges · The Classics Club

Valley of the Dolls by Jacqueline Susann Review

581811Summary: Dolls: red or black; capsules or tablets; washed down with vodka or swallowed straight-for Anne, Neely, and Jennifer, it doesn’t matter, as long as the pill bottle is within easy reach. These three women become best friends when they are young and struggling in New York City and then climb to the top of the entertainment industry-only to find that there is no place left to go but down-into the Valley of the Dolls.


My Thoughts: Y’all. THIS. BOOK. I can’t get over it.  It was completely and utterly addicting.  As a musical theatre actress, I can’t get enough of Old Hollywood and this book was everything I wanted.  I loved this view into the entertainment industry of the 1940’s-1960’s, and what I loved most was that it didn’t shy away from the darker side of the industry.  This book caused a huge stir when it was published in 1966, and I can see why.  It was still pretty explicit today, so I can’t imagine the scandal it would have caused upon its release.  The thing that I found so revolutionary about it, was the way it explored the female psyche and sexuality.  Looking back on it from today’s perspective, it really highlights the misogyny and what women were brainwashed to accept as reality, especially in terms of relationships.  This gave us a very interesting perspective into the three distinct and vibrant main characters, who all handle these situations very differently.  I loved all of three of them for so many reasons.  Their journeys were thorough and developed, and I understood each of them completely.  The plot was as addicting as the pills the girls consumed, and I could not put the book down.  This has easily become one of my favorite reads of all time, and I highly recommend it to anyone and everyone.

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Book Hangover

Broadway Book Chat

Broadway Book Chat: Jeff Brooks

It's Liberation Day.

As an actor, every job you do, you make a new family.  There is something special about theatre and its ability to bring people together in a way that is unlike any other.  I have made so many amazing friends throughout my career, and many of them share my love of books and literature.  Since theatre brings stories to life, I thought I would feature some of my favorite performers (my fabulous friends and cast mates) and see what their bookshelves look like! Welcome to my Broadway Book Chat!

Jeff Brooks

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Currently on tour with Fiddler on the Roof

Instagram: @bathrobedbrooks


What are you currently reading?

Just about to start Brandon Sanderson’s Mistborn.  Let it begin.  I’m going down the rabbit hole.

What is your favorite book series?

Anyone will tell you that I’m an ENORMOUS Lord of the Rings fan.  I’ve read the entire series 9 times.  Once for each member of the Fellowship.  Or each of the Nazgûl.

Who is your favorite author? IMG_6790

Without a doubt JRR Tolkien.

What book inspires you and why?

I’d be hard-pressed to choose between Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury and Anthem by Ayn Rand. Both are hypnotic metaphors for the state of Society.

Which literary character would you like to play?

I’d love to take a swing at Louis from Interview With the Vampire by Anne Rice.  Newly turned, still figuring it out, hanging with a vampire god.

If you could be friends with any of the characters you have played, who would it be and why?

Gaston, definitely. Nobody pays when they drink with Gaston.  Literally.  No one ever pays.  For all those drinks.  Not a cent.

What book would you like to see made into a musical/play/movie?

I’d love to see a miniseries of RA Salvatore’s Dark Elf Trilogy. People would eat Drizzt Do’Urden up.

IMG_6785What is the next book on your reading list?

Shadows of the Empire by Steve Perry. Love me some Star Wars Expanded Universe!

Have you ever thought about writing yourself?

I used to write short sci-fi stories, but never anything with real depth. Mostly just putting my technicolor dreams on paper and giving the characters cool names.

What show are you currently in, and what was the last show you were in and who did you play?

I’m currently on the road with the 1st National Tour of “Fiddler on the Roof” where I play the Constable. Last year at this time I was also on the road, but with “The Sound of Music”.

What is your favorite show you’ve been a part of and why?

“Bullets over Broadway” was such an amazing experience. A beautiful piece mixed with some wickedly-talented people.


See Jeff and the rest of the cast in Fiddler On the Roof all around the US!

http://fiddlermusical.com/ticket-info/


I feature a new performer every month! I would love some suggestions for questions you would like to ask, or things you want to know!  Leave them in the comments and I will add them to future interviews! Shout out to my wonderful friend, Jeff, for sharing with us! ❤

Broadway Book Chat

Broadway Book Chat: Joey Simon

It's Liberation Day.

As an actor, every job you do, you make a new family.  There is something special about theatre and its ability to bring people together in a way that is unlike any other.  I have made so many amazing friends throughout my career, and many of them share my love of books and literature.  Since theatre brings stories to life, I thought I would feature some of my favorite performers (my fabulous friends and castmates) and see what their bookshelves look like! Welcome to my Broadway Book Chat!

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Joey Simon

Currently performing in Anything Goes at Westchester Broadway Theatre!

instagram: @joey.a.simon


What are you currently reading?

Autoboyography by Christina Lauren.  It’s different from what I usually read, which is fantasy, but it’s always refreshing to read a book with a love story that could have actually been about me.

What is your favorite book series?

Such a tough and loaded question.  I consider Harry Potter to be in a category all its own, so outside of that I would have to say Stephen King’s The Dark Tower series.  It’s rare to find fantasy books outside of the original high fantasy archetypes that are written so well and meant for adults.  It is also such a huge part of Stephen King’s life, and is so unbelievably developed and planned.  Honorable Mention: Anne Rice’s The Vampire Chronicles.

Who is your favorite author?IMG_0909

I don’t really have one.  I don’t really follow authors, and the author doesn’t affect my interest in a book.

What book inspires you and why?

Anne Rice’s The Vampire Chronicles, as weird as that sounds.  Maybe it’s where I am at this moment in my life, but they inspire me to seek out things that I would normally take for granted.  They definitely make me want to travel more, love harder, and take risks.  Also being a vampire would be fun.

Which literary character would you like to play?

Vincent from The Rules of Magic by Alice Hoffman.  First off, I want to be a witch, and secondly, I love how complex he is and that he has a darkness inside of his goodness.  I also found that I really related to his character and his struggle to accept his sexuality.

If you could be friends with any of the characters you have played, who would it be and why?

The nun I played in Spamalot.  She was wild, your honor.

What book would you like to see made into a musical/play/movie?

I want Three Dark Crowns by Kendare Blake to be a movie, I want Carry On by Rainbow Rowell to be a musical, and The Rules of Magic by Alice Hoffman to be a play.

What is the next book on your reading list?

Probably The Great Hunt from the epic Wheel of Time series by Robert Jordan.  I just ordered it on Thriftbooks, a long with a bunch of others, and I am so excited to get back to that world.

What show are you currently in who did you play?

I am in Anything Goes at Westchester Broadway Theatre and I am in the ensemble, where I mostly am a tap dancing sailor.  Gay boy dreams come true.

What is your favorite show you’ve been a part of and why?

Probably Spamalot at Arkansas Repertory Theatre.  I grew up watching Monty Python, and it was an absolute riot to jump into that world and make audiences laugh every night.  Also everyone in the cast was incredible, and just such wonderful people.

Check out Joey and the rest of the cast of Anything Goes at Westchester Broadway Theatre!

I feature a new performer every month! I would love some suggestions for questions you would like to ask, or things you want to know!  Leave them in the comments and I will add them to future interviews! Thanks to my amazing roommate Joey (who I talk about all the time in my posts) for sharing with us! ❤

 

Broadway Book Chat

Broadway Book Chat: David Girolmo

It's Liberation Day.

As an actor, every job you do, you make a new family.  There is something special about theatre and its ability to bring people together in a way that is unlike any other.  I have made so many amazing friends throughout my career, and many of them share my love of books and literature.  Since theatre brings stories to life, I thought I would feature some of my favorite performers (my fabulous friends and cast mates) and see what their bookshelves look like! Welcome to my Broadway Book Chat!

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David Girolmo

Currently performing as Claude Frollo in The Hunchback of Notre Dame at The Fulton Theatre

What are you currently reading?

I’m reading The Hollow Chocolate Bunnies of the Apocalypse by Robert Rankin.  This oddly named book was a recommendation from a friend who nearly cried telling me how much he loved it, and how many times he re-read it.  We’ll see…

 What is your favorite book series?

Man this is a tough one…  There are so many that I have loved over the years; from The Lord of the Rings books, to Craig Johnson’s Walt Longmire series, C.J. Box’s Joe Pickett series, Sara Paretsky’s V.I. Warshawski series, Harry Potter, The Dark Tower… Too many wonderful hours.  If I have to choose one, I’ll go with John Sanford’s Prey series and his principle character Lucas Davenport.  I don’t know how many he’s written (upwards of 30 by now)- but I’ve loved them all.  No wait!! It has to be the Tales of the City series by Armistead Maupin.  I lived and cried, and loved with this group of people Maupin created for years- re-reading each book like it was the first time.  Yep, that’s it.  Tales of the City.

Who is your favorite author?

I thought this one would be harder- but my immediate response is Stephen King, and I’ll stick with that.  I’ve been reading his work since his first published novel, and we’ve sortof grown up together.  Just finished his latest, The Outsider, and loved it.  Other favorite authors: John Irving, Peter Straub, Harlen Coben, Armistead Maupin, John Sandford, Craig Johnson, Neil Gaiman, Ray Bradbury…

What book inspires you and why?

frollo

Do plays that I’ve read count as books?  There are so many plays I’ve read over the years that inspired me to be a better person/actor/friend/husband… When I was a kid (six or seven years old) I received a boxed edition of A.A. Milne’s Winnie the Pooh series for my birthday that I read over and over again.  I wanted so desperately for those stories to go on and on forever.  I was really bereft when I realized there were no more Pooh books, no more stories.  Maybe that’s why I love all these series: The characters go on as long as the author keeps writing.  I know I get inspired by characters who behave heroically.  I wish I were able to access the better angels of my nature when I read about people doing the right thing against all odds.

Which literary character would you like to play?

Ned Stark… Or Robin Hood… or Walt Longmire… or Iago… Because it would be a BLAST!! Ned Stark, Robin Hood, and Walt Longmire are men of character and virtue who behave heroically.  Iago is just as bad a guy as ever was written, and that would be too much fun!

If you could be friends with any of the characters you have played, who would it be and why?

Fred Graham/Petruchio from Kiss Me Kate.  Who had more fun than Petruchio? Or maybe Sweeney Todd/Benjamin Barker… maybe I could persuade him not to go back into that pie shop….

What book would you like to see turned into a movie/musical/play?

I’d like to see a musical version of Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman.  I’ve seen a pretty badly realized BBC TV movie, and a very small scale play in Chicago.  This cries out for a musical.

What book is next on your reading list?

The Listener by Robert McCammon

What show are you currently working on and who do you play?

I’m currently in The Hunchback of Notre Dame at the Fulton Theatre playing Claude Frollo.  The last show I did was Guys and Dolls playing Arvide Abernathy.  Two more disparate roles I could never have hoped for in the same season!

What is your favorite show you have been a part of and why?

Probably Sondheim’s Follies because that’s where I met my favorite person in the world– my wife.


Check out David and the cast of The Hunchback of Notre Dame at The Fulton Theatre!

I feature a new performer every month! I would love some suggestions for questions you would like to ask, or things you want to know!  Leave them in the comments and I will add them to future interviews! Thanks to the insanely talented David for sharing with us! ❤