JHP Entertainment

Entertainment News, Reviews and Interviews

National Tour

Rapid Fire 20Q with international Dolly Parton tribute artist Kelly O’Brien as she brings ‘The Dolly Show’ to City Winery Nashville Sunday, May 18

by

 

Having been named the UK’s Best Dolly Parton Tribute Act four years in a row by the Agent’s Association of Great Britain, Kelly O’Brien has been thrilling audiences across the pond since creating and touring THE DOLLY SHOW. Being a huge Dolly fan myself, I became aware of O’Brien’s uncanny ability to not only resemble the Queen of Country Music but to also speak and sing live as the beloved Tennessee treasure when I started following her on social media a couple years ago. So naturally, when I learned that O’Brien was embarking on her first-ever stateside tour, including a performance right here in Music City at City Winery Nashville on May 18, I knew I had to chat with her for the latest installment in my recurring interview feature, Rapid Fire 20Q. What follow is that conversation.

—————

RAPID FIRE 20Q WITH THE DOLLY SHOW TRIBUTE ARTIST, KELLY OBRIEN

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Your upcoming May 18 show at City Winery Nashville marks your Music City debut. How excited are you to be performing as Dolly Parton in the town that claims her as our own?

KELLY O’BRIEN: I am beyond thrilled. It’s a real ‘pinch me’ moment in my career. And I’ve heard some of her family members may be there, so it’s a huge honor to be bringing my show to Nashville 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Before we chat about your Dolly Parton tribute show, THE DOLLY SHOW, I wanna ask you about your life ‘before Dolly’ if you will. You frequently credit your parents for your initial, albeit unintentional introduction to Dolly, remembering them playing her vinyl records when you were growing up in relatively rural McLaren Vale, Australia as you drifted off to sleep. So let’s start there…besides Dolly, what are your earliest musical memories?

KELLY O’BRIEN: Singing in the truck with my dad. I was about 4 years old and my parents had a bakery run. During the holidays we would get up at 4am to drive into Adelaide and load up the trucks with pies, pasties and donuts. All I had to keep me company in those days was the radio, so I was always singing. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: You’re also quoted as deciding on a career in entertainment as young as eight thanks to seeing Kylie Minogue (another personal favorite of mine) and her sister Dannii on tv. What was it about the two of them that struck you as a viable career choice at such a young age?

KELLY O’BRIEN: I think I just loved attention, haha. Dannii was on a show called Young Talent Time (where Kyle also sang with her.) It was on TV every Saturday night. A group of 10 young kids singing, dancing and dressed in amazing costumes. I was hooked. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: By age 14 you were competing in country music singing competitions. What was your first win? AND what song did you win with?

KELLY O’BRIEN: I sang When Will I Be Loved by Linda Rondstadt. I think I won a trophy and a meat tray. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: To hone your craft, you attended University of Sydney’s Conservatorium of Music. What’s your favorite memory of that time in your life?

KELLY O’BRIEN: It was a jazz course. I wanted to learn the skill of improvisation, and playing piano whilst singing… It helped me immensely. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: You also began enjoying a career in musical theatre around that time, if research serves me, landing roles in Starlight Express, The Hunchback of Notre Dame and more, even traveling to Germany with a national touring company. Talk about life on the road! Was that your first taste of tour life?

KELLY O’BRIEN: My first big lead role was in Starlight Express, Germany. I’d never been to Europe before that. Deep down, I know I would end up living on the other side of the world. There were just more opportunitys there. And I was right. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: OK, now for some Dolly-centered questions…I’ve met Dolly several times through the years, so when I say sound like Dolly, I mean it!…you not only sing live like her but also speak live as her during your act. You’ve got what I affectionately refer to as her ‘hiccup giggle’ down pat! When did you first discover you could sound like Dolly? 

KELLY O’BRIEN: Well, this part was difficult. Dolly is a soprano and I am an alto, so it took a huge amount of practice. Her voice is very forward in the mouth, it’s a skill. It took a LONG time to perfect. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Then there’s Dolly’s look. You’ve been performing as Dolly in one form or another for about two decades, and from photos and clips I’ve seen, you just keep getting better. Do you find yourself studying Dolly still, in an effort to keep up the look and sound?

KELLY O’BRIEN: Absolutely. I am never complacent. There is so much to learn about Dolly. The instruments she plays, the Dolly-isms and stories she tells. I am always learning something new. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: I mentioned Kylie earlier. You’ve performed as Kylie in the past, Brittney Spears and Judy Garland too, right? So what is it about Dolly that prompted you to build an entire show around her and not the other artists you’ve paid homage to in tribute?

KELLY O’BRIEN: For starters, I am only 5 ft tall, so that helped. haha Then I guess it was the fact I started singing country music so young. And the fact I was in musical theatre meant I knew how to create the ‘look’ needed to be a fabulous representation of Dolly. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: I remember the first time I met Dolly, and every time since then, so I gotta ask. What was it like when you met her in 2011?

KELLY O’BRIEN: It’s quite surreal meeting your idol. There are so many things you want to say… I told her how I was an impersonator and she loved that. She was very complimentary. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: In doing a little online sleuthing in preparation of our chat, I discovered not only is Dolly a 1° of separation for us, but so was the late great prolific tv producer, Nigel Lythgoe; you having secured a Top 12 spot on Popstars Australia and I having worked on the first two season of American Idol! What do you remember most about your experience with that particular brand of reality television?

KELLY O’BRIEN: Oh dear! That was tough. I was in my twenties then. Not as confident back then. People tell you to ‘jump’ and you do it. If I were spoken to like that now, I’d tell THEM to go jump! haha

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Your Nashville debut is midway through your first-ever THE DOLLY SHOW tour in the U.S.. In fact, as we conduct this interview you’re boarding your flight to the U.S. What are you looking forward to most in sharing this show with your stateside audience?

KELLY O’BRIEN: I wonder if they will laugh at my jokes. I mean, they are Dolly gags, but I incorporate my own flair. I also involve the audience quite a bit. It’s an interative show. I hope it translates well… 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: In the show you present several Dolly ‘looks’ representing her career from the earlier years to a more modern Dolly. Do you have a personal favorite of your Dolly looks?

KELLY O’BRIEN: Oooooh, I love the 70’s. Dolly’s hair was BIG! I love that look. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Ok, I gotta know…how much luggage do you travel with? How many wigs and costumes are among your gear?

KELLY O’BRIEN: Three suitcases, 7 costumes, 6 wigs. It’s a lot. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: For you personally, when, during your transformation into Dolly, do you feel the illusion is complete? Is it the wig, the wardrobe or the moment you walk onto the stage and greet your eager audience?

KELLY O’BRIEN: I always take a moment before the show to get into character. It’s usually once my wig is glued on and the transformation is complete. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Dolly isn’t just a fabulous singer, she’s a ridiculously prolific songwriter, so not only is the vocal skill important, the music is also key. To that end, I understand current Nashvillian, guitarist Danny Werner is part of your backing back. How did you meet Danny and who else have you got joining you in for your U.S. dates as part of THE DOLLY SHOW band? 

KELLY O’BRIEN: Oh wow, you know Danny? How brilliant. I also have John Hagewood, Jon Ross and Jason Sullivan. They will be traveling from Nashville to do my shows in three different states. I will meet them on the first day of rehearsals. I hear they’re great musicians. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Like Dolly, being a singer is only part of who you are. You’re also a Wife and Mom. Have you brought the family along for the U.S. tour? OR are FaceTime and video chats what keep you connected during life on the road?

KELLY O’BRIEN: Not this time. My daughter performs at a very high level and is representing England at this years  ‘Dance World Cup.’ She has to stay home and rehearse. And my husband Ben needs to drive her around. They will be traveling back with my in October for round two.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Wait a minute! Did I just get an exclusive? Round two in October, huh? That’s awesome! If you could only play one Dolly Parton album the rest of your life, what would it be and what song in particular means the most to you?

KELLY O’BRIEN: Little Sparrow, I just love that Bluegrass sound. I love Mountain Angel. It’s a seriously beautiful and haunting song. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: YES! Little Sparrow is my favorite Dolly album as well. I just love The Grass is Blue. Alright, we’re almost to the 20th questions, so…What’s next for you?

KELLY O’BRIEN: A rest! haha

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What do you hope audiences take with them long after seeing your tribute to Dolly in THE DOLLY SHOW?

KELLY O’BRIEN: I hope they feel they’ve spent the night with Dolly. I hope they have fun, leave feeling a little lighter and full of love. Dolly brings people together like that. 

—————

With that, my chat with Kelly O’Brien came to an end, but that’s not all for me, as you better believe I purchased tickets to THE DOLLY SHOW’s May 18 performance at City Winery Nashville. Doors open at 6pm for the Sunday, May 18 7:30pm show. Tickets range in price from $20 to $35. CLICK HERE to purchase tickets. Not in Nashville? You still have another chance to see Kelly O’Brien as Dolly stateside during this phase of the tour when she brings THE DOLLY SHOW to Roxy’s Cabaret in Minneapolis on May 23, and don’t forget the upcoming above-mentioned round two of US dates coming in October. Of course if you’re reading this interview and you happen to be in the UK, as soon as Kelly wraps her US dates she’s headed back for more dates in the UK with shows at Festival Theatre at Hever Castle’s Two Sisters Theatre in Kent on May 31,  Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff on June 6&7, Bush Hall in London on June 20, The Glasshouse in Gateshead on June 28 and more. CLICK HERE for Kelly’s full tour schedule. You can also follow her on Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube. Heck, you can even book a personal Cameo message! In the meantime, check out Kelly O’Brien’s THE DOLLY SHOW promo video below!

As always, if you wanna follow JHPEntertainment to find out who I’m chatting with for my next Rapid Fire Q&A, or for my take on the latest local and national theatre, music and movie offerings, find us at JHPEntertainment on Facebook, JHPEntertainment on Instagram  and JHPEntertainment on Twitter.

Got an event or show we should know about, drop us a line at the Contact tab. Till then, #GoSeeTheShow!

Rapid Fire 20Q with cast members of ‘MJ: The Michael Jackson Musical’; National Tour at TPAC’s Jackson Hall through May 11

by

The term soundtrack of a generation might be overused, but with a solo career that spanned 45 years and included 13 number-one hits, 30 top ten singles, six decades of hits as an artist, 8 Grammys, and 26 American Music Awards…just to name a few accolades…it’s easy to say that Michael Jackson not only provided the soundtrack of a generation, but of GENERATIONS! That said, when I heard that the four-time Tony-winning Broadway musical, MJ: THE MUSICAL National Tour was headed to Music City, playing TPAC’s Jackson Hall thru May 11, I knew I had to chat with members of the company for my latest Rapid Fire 20Q. When I reached out to my TPAC contact, I found out I would be chatting with Anastasia Talley who plays Jackson’s Mom, Katherine Jackson, J. Daughtry who takes on the role of Motown hitmaker Berry Gordy, JoJo Carmichael, the company’s Dance Captain and Nashville’s own, Devin Bowles, who stars as Jackson family patriarch, Joe Jackson, so I knew these interviews were sure to be a Thriller!

—————

RAPID FIRE 20Q WITH CAST AND CREATIVES OF MJ: THE MUSICAL NATIONAL TOUR

RAPID FIRE WITH DEVIN BOWLES, JOE JACKSON IN MJ: THE MUSICAL

JHPENTERTAINMENT: You play Joe Jackson, the patriarch of the Jackson family in MJ: THE MUSICAL. What can you tell me about Joe, as he is written in the show?

DEVIN BOWLES: Joe Jackson is the Sun and everyone else and every thing navigates around him. We see the dominate and influential grip that he had on Michael and the remanence of his teachings. The environment that Joe created for his family was very controlling, abusive, and filled with mental schemes but all stemmed back to a tough love ideology that we showcase in this show.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Devin, I gotta tell you, when I heard you were joining the tour as Joe, I was so excited. It’s always fun for me seeing actors I knew from the local theatre scene go on to bigger things. Heck, I recall seeing you in shows at Chaffin’s Barn Dinner Theatre and Studio Tenn. What’s most exciting about returning to Nashville for a tour stop at TPAC?

DEVIN BOWLES: It’s truly so surreal being back in Nashville! This city is where I began my professional career, it’s where my found my first community of artist, it’s the soil that ignited the ambition to be where I am now and to keep going. From Chaffin’s and to Studio Tenn, it’s a reminder of the power of manifestations, prayer, and full circle moments. I’m excited to continue to expand my artistry and career with this show and furthermore.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As expected, the show is overflowing with classic MJ tunes. A few lesser-known Jackson songs are also among the mix. Money, a track from 1995 release HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I is one that you’re featured on. What’s the significance of this song appearing in Act 2?

DEVIN BOWLES: There’s for sure some songs that wasn’t too known me when I began this journey, Money was also one of these songs. In this show, Joe sings about Money as substance that controls people and with that, he compares himself to it. He believes he owns Michael and is proclaiming that he will do anything for him and for the product he is trying to make.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Having been with the tour since the onset back in August of ’23, as Joe, you share the stage with all the actors portraying Michael at various points in his life. The current lineup includes Jordan Markus as MJ, Deaundré Woods at MJ (Alternate), Erik Hamilton as Michael and Quentin Blanton Jr. and Bane Griffith sharing the role of Little Michael. Using one word each, how would you describe the actors playing Michael?

DEVIN BOWLES:

Jordan Markus- Powerhouse

Erik Hamilton-Consistant

Dre Woods-Mastermind

Bane Griffith-Iconic

Quentin Blanton Jr.-Light

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As I mentioned earlier, you’re current Music City dates mark a homecoming for you. What are a couple of the ‘Must See’ Nashville things you hope to share with your cast mates while in town?

DEVIN BOWLES: I have already shared a list of restaurants, bars, lounges, and just all around great spots with the cast. I’m definitely going to dive into the food here that I have missed while being on the road, there’s nothing like it.

RAPID FIRE WITH JOJO CARMICHAEL, MJ THE MUSICAL’s DANCE CAPTAIN

JHPENTERTAINMENT: For those who might not be fully familiar, what exactly does being Dance Captain for MJ: THE MUSICAL entail?

JOJO CARMICHAEL: A number of responsibilities come with being dance captain for MJ: THE MUSICAL. One of them being, upholding the integrity of the choreography that we were taught day one. This can be married to making sure everyone is moving as one and the visuals are clean, clear and effective. I am also a swing, so I have the opportunity to perform. When new cast members join our company, I assist in teaching them the show. And I also teach classes across the country that are inspired by the movement we do in the show which I thoroughly enjoy. I’ve been able to learn so much through this position, as dance captain, and it is an opportunity I don’t take lightly.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: It’s not a stretch to say that Michael Jackson might be the most iconic pop star with some of the most memorable dance sequences ever. Is there a choreo moment in the show that you absolutely love performing night after night?

JOJO CARMICHAEL: My favorite number to perform would have to be the Fosse sequence into Smooth Criminal at the top of act two. There’s a sense of ferocity intertwined with mystery that comes with the movement which I find so fun to play with. Considering that it’s the only number in the show where it’s just MJ and the dancers on stage, it introduces a different energy to the show as well.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: When did you know a career in movement was the life for you?

JOJO CARMICHAEL: Around eighth grade is when I started to look at dance as a professional career. For the longest time, I wanted to be a neurosurgeon and dance was just gonna be a hobby or side hustle. So my Mom arranged a conversation with a neurosurgeon who was in their residency at the time, and they shared with me that it’s about fifteen years of schooling. I couldn’t compute how to go to school for that long and still dance, so I chose dance and never looked back.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: One key element of MJ: THE MUSICAL is the family. Michael always had his family whether onstage as part of The Jackson 5 to their behind-the-scenes support. You always hear that theatre is family, too. I’d imagine that sense of family is only amplified on a National Tour, traveling together, performing together and likely spending off-hours together. What does the family aspect of tour life mean to you?

JOJO CARMICHAEL: On tour we only have each other. We celebrate birthdays, we console and support each other through hardships. We look after each other as if we are family. And this cast and crew is truly a beautiful group of human beings that I am proud to call family. In general, family is something that I heavily value and prioritize in my life. So, to now have this connection with my cast is one thing I’m most grateful for MJ: THE MUSICAL bringing into my life.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: In addition to being Dance Captain, you’re also Swing, meaning you cover a multitude of roles stepping in to fill in when a member of the ensemble is out. What’s the most fun aspect of being Swing for a show like MJ?

JOJO CARMICHAEL: The most fun aspect of being a swing for this show is simply sharing the stage with  this cast. We have a lot of fun up there. Even when we’re tired we find ways to lift each other’s spirits or make someone laugh. Being a swing also keeps my mind working, attentive and requires me to stay present which I find just as enjoyable as it is challenging.

RAPID FIRE WITH J. DAUGHTRY, BERRY GORDY/NICK in MJ: THE MUSICAL

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What can you tell me about your dual roles as Berry Gordy and Nick in MJ: THE MUSICAL?

J. DAUGHTRY: Nick is a savvy tour manager keeping things on track during rehearsals for Michael Jackson’s 1992 Dangerous World Tour. As Berry Gordy, I appear in flashbacks as the legendary founder of Motown Records—the man who first recognized young Michael’s extraordinary talent. Both roles highlight the forces shaping Michael’s artistic journey, from the business demands of the present to the mentorship and music legacy of his past.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: How did you come to be part of the tour?

J. DAUGHTRY: I love the Motown story  in fact the music is a part of the fabric of my life. So anytime there is a show related to Motown I make sure I audition. There was a position opening up on Broadway and I threw my hat in the ring. I didn’t get the role on Broadway but I was blessed with the tour.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: There are so many Michael Jackson looks, from his preteen natural hair and bellbottoms during the Jackson 5 era and his red leather Beat It jacket to single gloves and military-style regalia. Do you have a favorite wardrobe moment represented in the show?

J. DAUGHTRY: Absolutely! There are so many but surprisingly my favorite looks of MJ in the musical are when he’s in a simple blue silk shirt, white tee shirt and black slacks with the iconic loafers.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As I indicated in my intro to this piece, Michael Jackson’s music can truly be called the soundtrack of a generation. Which era is your favorite and why?

J. DAUGHTRY: I am an 80’s baby so I quite literally grew up on his music. I would have to say the Jackson 5 music is my favorite only because it’s what I grew up on.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Is there a song included in the musical that you weren’t as familiar with that you are now obsessed with hearing night after night?

J. DAUGHTRY: Yes, Keep the Faith. I had never heard the song and now it is a moment of inspiration.

RAPID FIRE WITH ANASTASIA TALLEY, KATHERINE JACKSON IN MJ: THE MUSICAL

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Who is Katherine Jackson to you? 

ANASTASIA TALLEY: Katherine Jackson is the matriarch of the Jackson family and the mother of one of the greatest artists of our time. She is an undeniable source of love and compassion, and Michael Jackson was vocal about the influence she had in his life. This is portrayed beautifully in her song with MJ in the show.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Having been a fan of the Jacksons pretty much my whole life, I have this image of Katherine as the quieter, supportive parent, whereas Joe always seems to be portrayed in the media as the more business-oriented force behind the family. As she’s written in MJ: THE MUSICAL, what’s the most surprising aspect of Katherine’s persona that you’ve discovered? 

ANASTASIA TALLEY: While it’s perhaps not surprising, I find myself deeply moved by the quiet but profound love she shows for her son and his artistry. Though often imagined as the reserved, supportive parent, the depth and fierceness of her devotion are portrayed with such clarity that it catches me off guard every time. There is a quiet power in her presence — deliberate, unwavering, and fiercely tender — and that quiet strength lingers with me more than I expect.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Speaking of Joe, to kick off this Rapid Fire 20Q, I chatted with Devin Bowles, who plays your on-stage husband. What’s it like sharing the stage with Devin night after night? 

ANASTASIA TALLEY: It is an absolute joy to share the stage with Devin. He is an incredibly curious, compassionate, and growth-focused human being, and it truly shines through in his acting. His generosity as an actor is tremendously grounding, and that generosity serves as the perfect inspiration for the cast to discover and rediscover the scenes every night. Side note: Devin Bowles is HILARIOUS offstage! He also treats everyone with genuine warmth and care. A true class act.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As Katherine you’re featured in Act 1 alongside Little Michael and MJ on I’ll Be There, one of The Jackson 5’s more poignant songs. What does that scene and that song mean to you? 

ANASTASIA TALLEY: I have sung that song literally hundreds of times with the show, and the way the meaning of the song deepens and changes never fails to astound me. The song is such a powerful display and vow of love. It’ is also a promise to show up, not just in words, but in action, for the people you love. It is a reminder that love is a verb. It is also a decision. I think the lyrics of the song depict that truth beautifully. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What do you hope audiences come away remembering long after they’ve seen MJ: THE MUSICAL? 

ANASTASIA TALLEY: I hope audiences remember the artistry, the music, the history, and the call to action: make the world a better place through change. 

—————

MJ: THE MUSICAL wraps its two-week engagement at TPAC’s Jackson Hall with performances through May 11. CLICK HERE for tickets. While MJ: THE MUSICAL closes out TPAC’s current Broadway at TPAC season, there’s no stopping the art and entertainment. Among TPAC’s upcoming events: the annual Spotlight Awards: Nashville High School Musical Theatre Awards takes to the stage May 17. TPAC presents Paul Taylor Dance Company May 30-31, CAMP TPAC returns with theatre-centered intensives for various ages throughout June, plus much more entertainment throughout the summer. TPAC’s Broadway at TPAC 2025-2026 Season kicks off September 23-28 with THE WIZ. For more on these and all TPAC events, CLICK HERE. You can also follow TPAC on socials: TPAC on Instagram, X, YouTube and Facebook.

Following it’s Music City dates, MJ: THE MUSICAL continues its National Tour with performances in Fort Worth, TX May 13-18, Fayetteville, AR May 20-25, Milwaukee, WI May 27-June 1, Appleton, WI June 3-8 and more. For the full schedule of dates, or to purchase tickets in your city, CLICK HERE.You can also follow MJ: THE MUSICAL on their socials, so check them out on Facebook, Bluesky, Insta, YouTube and TikTok.

As always, if you wanna follow JHPEntertainment to find out who I’m chatting with for my next Rapid Fire Q&A, or for my take on the latest local and national theatre, music and movie offerings, find us at JHPEntertainment on Facebook, JHPEntertainment on Instagram  and JHPEntertainment on Twitter.

Got an event or show we should know about, drop us a line at the Contact tab. Till then, #GoSeeTheShow!

Rapid Fire 20Q with ‘KIMBERLY AKIMBO’ stars Carolee Carmello, Jim Hogan, Emily Koch and Darron Hayes as National Tour continues; at TPAC’s Jackson Hall beginning April 8

by

KIMBERLY AKIMBO, a musical story of a young woman with a disease that rapidly ages her, who, instead of giving up, decides to live her life to the fullest every day. With book by David Lindsay-Abaire (based on his earlier comedy play of the same name) and music by Jeanine Tesori, the original Broadway run garnered the show eight Tony nominations, taking home five, including Best Musical. When the National Tour was announced, three-time Tony nominee Carolee Carmello was cast in the lead role as 16-year-old Kimberly, alongside five understudies of the original company.

As the cast and crew of KIMBERLY AKIMBO readied themselves for their Nashville debut, with performances at TPAC’s Jackson Hall April 8-13, I recently had the chance to pose a few questions to the show’s lead actress Carolee Carmello and her fellow cast members Jim Hogan, Emily Koch and Darron Hayes for the latest installment of my recurring interview feature Rapid Fire 20Q. What follow are those conversations.

—————

RAPID FIRE 20Q WITH CAST OF KIMBERLY AKIMBO; AT TPAC APRIL 8-13

RAPID FIRE Q&A WITH JIM HOGAN, BUDDY IN KIMBERLY AKIMBO

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: What can you tell me about Buddy, the character you play in KIMBERLY AKIMBO?

JIM HOGAN:  Buddy is our protagonist, Kimberly’s, troubled (and loving) father who just can’t seem to get it right despite his best (and worst) efforts.

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: While the tour began in September of last year, you have been part of the KIMBERLY AKIMBO family since late 2022 when you joined the Broadway company as standby for Buddy. In the two years since you’ve been associated with the role, has your approach to the character changed?

JIM HOGAN:  I don’t think I’d say changed as much as I’d say grown.  Being able to play Buddy night after night as opposed to the occasional nature of being a standby has heightened my sense of truth within his words and actions, despite how complicated they can be.  I’m truly grateful to get to step into his Reeboks every night. 

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: Prior to joining this show, you previously toured with WAITRESS and PHANTOM, so tour life has been part of your life for a decade now. What’s your favorite thing about life on the road?

JIM HOGAN: I LOVE touring.  There’s something so special about it, and I hope every performer, both professional and aspiring, gets the chance to do it.  I’d say my favorite part is exploring each city, but specifically trying each city’s unique cuisines. 

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: Speaking of life on the road, in another lifetime, I too spent a couple years traveling from town to town during the original first two seasons of AMERICAN IDOL as part of the production. My main gig was registering hopefuls as they readied auditions for then-judges Randy Jackson, Paul Abdul and Simon Cowell. I bring this up because when I was told I’d be chatting with you for this Rapid Fire 20Q featuring members of the National Tour of KIMBERLY AKIMBO, I immediately recognized your name as being part of the vocal group T3 who appeared during 2021’s Season 16 of AMERICA’s GOT TALENT. So a two-parter…What’s your fondest memory of your time on AGT? AND…What’s going on with T3 now?

JIM HOGAN:  That’s so cool!!  We have a Simon Cowell connection 😅  T.3 had a blast on AGT, I’d say our favorite part was getting to meet and learn from everyone involved: the celebrity judges/host of course, but the artists/performers within the show and those backstage perhaps even more.  It was a very eye-opening and important part of T.3’s creation and a great stepping stone to get us to where we are today!  We are actively releasing new music, our viral cover of Imogen Heap’s “Hide and Seek” will be available on streaming shortly, and we tour all over the country whenever our schedule allows!  We are releasing our biggest tour schedule yet in the coming weeks, so be on the lookout to see T.3 near you in August and September of this year 🙂

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: Back to KIMBERLY AKIMBO, Within the context of the show, even though Buddy is Kimberly’s father, he’s not exactly the ideal dad, and the roles seem a bit reversed at times. What’s your favorite aspect of exploring this dynamic with Carolee Carmello on stage night after night?

JIM HOGAN:  Well first of all, Carolee is incredible in this part and it’s been an honor to act alongside her every night.  As far as Buddy’s complexities go, I have always felt like I know him. For better or for worse, but I think more people are like Buddy than they would care to admit. I think that’s been the biggest thing, is tapping into the parts of myself that maybe I don’t love so much. But that in itself, has been healing.

RAPID FIRE Q&A WITH EMILY KOCH, DEBRA IN KIMBERLY AKIMBO

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: What can you tell me about Debra, the role you play in KIMBERLY AKIMBO?

EMILY KOCH: Debra is a bold, brash, fabulous woman. She might be involved in some unsavory activities but she knows how to get what she wants by any means necessary. She also, most importantly, adores her niece, Kim and wants her to have the best life she can. I love getting to play someone so sure of themselves, it’s inspiring.

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: Your show bio reveals that Jim Hogan, who plays Buddy, has been your boyfriend in real life for seven years. If my math is mathin’, that means you two began dating while you were both on tour with WAITRESS. Even though I’d love to know the worst, I’ll play nice and ask…What’s the best part of sharing scenes with your actual love interest AND having them on the road with you?

 EMILY KOCH: Your math is mathin’! That is where we met. I’m being totally honest when I say, there really isn’t a worst part. Jim and I have both worked a lot separately and together and both done multiple tours so we just know how to do it well, so, knock on wood, we haven’t had any problems out here. We also just really deeply get along and respect each other’s work. It’s also been fun to play people who don’t like each other in the show. Maybe that’s why we are so happy, we work it all out on the stage!

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: During the Broadway run, you were standby for both Debra and Patti. How excited were you when you learned you’d been cast as Debra for the tour?

EMILY KOCH: I was ecstatic. Being the avid theatre fan that I am, learning you’re gonna lead a David Lindsay-Abaire and Jeanine Tesori musical is like winning the theatre lottery. I have to admit when I got cast on Broadway, I considered my time there as an extended audition for the tour. I just had never loved a show so much and wanted to be a part of it for as long as I could. I was also hoping Jim would get cast and he got the call from him agents about five minutes after me. Needless to say, it was an awesome day for our household. We drank champagne at noon.

 JHP ENTERTAINMENT: From what I hear, there’s a few minor differences as far as staging and such from the Broadway run. Among the changes, Aunt Debra now skates. I gotta know, was skating already among your ‘special skills’ and what all was involved in brushing up on your technique during the rehearsal process of KIMBERLY AKIMBO?

EMILY KOCH: Yes,Debra does skate! I think the reason that change happened is because when I was covering on Broadway, I had to skate as Patti, so they knew I could already do it. Skating was definitely not a special skill of mine, but I do love to watch it and always have. We got to take a few lessons on actual ice for Broadway and Tour which was helpful and fun, and we do a cast “skate call” three times a week so now I think we all feel pretty comfortable out there.

 JHP ENTERTAINMENT: Having previously toured with WAITRESS and WICKED, when you find yourself coming back to cities you’ve previously visited, do you try to revisit spots you enjoyed before, or do you try to scope out new things in now-familiar cities? Oh, and by the way, I hear The Escape Game Nashville in my little neighborhood of Berry Hill is quite fun, so…you’re welcome!

 EMILY KOCH: Thank you so much for the rec! Escape rooms are such a good tour activity! And yes, that’s my favorite thing about tour honestly, is going back to my old haunts in all these awesome cities. They fully transport me to how I felt the last time I was there and I love that feeling. Aside from Memphis, TN, I have played every single city we are going to in this first year and I’m so happy to return to all of them.

RAPID FIRE Q&A WITH DARRON HAYES, MARTIN IN KIMBERLY AKIMBO

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Who is Martin?

DARRON HAYES: Martin is a star to be. He’s one of the teens in show choir who’s in a sticky love square, but knows there’s a beautiful and fulfilling life awaiting him outside of New Jersey.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Like a number of your tour mates, you were also part of the Broadway cast of KIMBERLY AKIMBO. Has that fact aided in the company feeling like family as you’ve all taken the show on the road?

DARRON HAYES: Yes, it’s been so nice to return to Kimberly Akimbo with familiar faces and relationships. We get to tell this incredible story in a slightly different way with some great new faces as well!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: During your time with the Broadway production, you understudied the roles of Martin, Aaron and Seth. If a bit of internet sleuthing proved useful, it was March of last year that you made your Broadway debut as Martin. What was that moment like AND…how has your interpretation of Martin changed now that he’s yours completely?

DARRON HAYES: My Broadway debut, that happened almost a year ago today, was the most magical night of my life thus far. I’d worked for and hoped and dreamed of this moment my entire life. And when it happened, I thought… Here we go. This is just the beginning. Keep going, grasshopper, and I’m so proud of you! What has changed about me playing Martin full time now, is that I’m allowed to take full ownership of my interpretation, rather than feeling like I need to figure out how I fit in, what can sometimes feel like someone else’s play.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Alright, when I chatted with Jim Hogan earlier, I asked him a bit about T3 and his experience on AGT. As I confessed to him, I worked on the original AMERICAN IDOL back in the day, so when I discovered you auditioned for IDOL a couple years ago, I knew I had to ask you about that experience. What did you use for your audition song?….AND…Have you and Jim ever compared ‘reality competition tv’ notes?

DARRON HAYES: We haven’t had the chance to compare our experiences yet, but maybe now we will. And I sang All I Do by legend, Stevie Wonder. And my experience with AMERICAN IDOL was interesting. I took it for what it was, met some insanely talented singers, and learned what I could from that unique experience!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: IS there a theme or idea presented in KIMBERLY AKIMBO that you find yourself consciously or unconsciously being more mindful of in your off time?

DARRON HAYES: ABSOLUTELY! As Crazy as Aunt Deb is, she never lied. Life is gonna life, and sometimes you aren’t dealt the best stack of cards. But to me, life is about looking at what you DO have control over. What decisions and choices can I make for a better outcome? Or to be more fulfilled? So the song Better is basically my motto for life.

RAPID FIRE Q&A WITH CAROLEE CARMELLO, KIMBERLY IN KIMBERLY AKIMBO

JHPENTERTAINMENT: OK, before we get into talking about KIMBERLY AKIMBO, I’m just gonna fanboy a bit. I’ve enjoyed your work since your stint as Maple LaMarsh on AMC’s comedy series Remember WENN? What do you remember most about your time on that series?

CAROLEE CARMELLO: CAROLEE CARMELLO:  That show was a dream come true for me! I loved the scripts (by the brilliant Rupert Holmes) and I loved the 40s costumes and hairstyles (despite the fact that I didn’t wear a wig and all that hair spray definitely took a toll on my hair). Plus the cast was so talented!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Now, on to KIMBERLY AKIMBO…From the start, what do audiences need to know about KIMBERLY, the show…and the character?

CAROLEE CARMELLO: I love the show! So smartly written, so funny, so touching … it really is the kind of musical I enjoy watching because it gives you ALL the feels! And the character I play is so positive, despite all of her many challenges. I learn a lot from Kimberly every night!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: If my research and memory serve me right, you’ve been in something like 16 Broadways shows, received three Tony nominations, and KIMBERLY marks your 7th national tour. Revisiting your incredible body of work, I was reminded of something my now-90 year-old former art teach frequently says, “Art is Life”. In regards to you, that certainly seems true. What’s behind your love of the arts and what keeps you continuing to explore your own creativity?

CAROLEE CARMELLO: Oh gosh, I still love musicals … I think it’s such an amazing way to tell a story. And I think live theater is the best way to experience story telling … sitting in a dark theater with a community of people watching LIVE actors and LIVE musicians bringing a story to life! It brings people together in so many ways … which is vital, especially right now.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Back to KIMBERLY AKIMBO, If you were faced with circumstances similar to Kimberly’s is there anything you’d do differently or anything you’d lift from Kimberly’s reactions to her circumstances to better your own remaining time?

CAROLEE CARMELLO: I can only hope that I would take on each day the way Kimberly does … she wants an adventure, and she gets it, despite all of her challenges! It’s really inspiring!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Dang! I could have done all 20 questions with you, but our time is up as I’m about to chat with a couple of your costars, so I’ll end our conversation with this. What do you hope audiences take with them after seeing KIMBERLY AKIMBO?

CAROLEE CARMELLO: I think the message of the show is to enjoy the time we have and the people we have to share it with … nothing else matters!

————

The National Tour of KIMBERLY AKIMBO comes to Music City for eight performances beginning Tuesday, April 8 and continuing through Sunday, April 13 at TPAC’s Jackson Hall as part of the current Broadway at TPAC Series. CLICK HERE for tickets or more information.

Following the Music City dates,  KIMBERLY AKIMBO stops in Charlotte, Durham, Boston, Washington DC and more as the current National Tour continues through May of 2026. To keep up with all things KIMBERLY AKIMBO, checkout their Official Site and follow them on Facebook, X, Instagram, Youtube and TikTok.

Next up at TPAC, it’s yet another Tony-winner as MJ: THE MUSICAL, exploring the life and career of music mega-star Michael Jackson closes out the current season of Broadway at TPAC with shows April 29-May 11. CLICK HERE for tickets and more information and be sure and check back right here at JHPENTERTAINMENT.COM as I’ll soon be chatting with members of the cast of MJ prior to their Nashville debut.

You can also follow TPAC on socials: TPAC on Instagram, X, YouTube and Facebook.

As always, if you wanna follow JHPEntertainment to find out who I’m chatting with for my next Rapid Fire Q&A, or for my take on the latest local and national theatre, music and movie offerings, find us at JHPEntertainment on Facebook, JHPEntertainment on Instagram  and JHPEntertainment on Twitter.

Got an event or show we should know about, drop us a line at the Contact tab. Till then, #GoSeeTheShow!

Rapid Fire Q&A with ‘HADESTOWN’ stars Nickolaus Colón and Namisa Mdlalose Bizana; at TPAC March 7-9

by

HADESTOWN, often described as a Broadway folk opera, is singer/songwriter/playwright Anaïs Mitchell’s Tony and Grammy-winning musical retelling of Greek myths involving Orpheus, Eurydice, Hades, Persephone, Hermes and The Fates. When I heard HADESTOWN would be playing a limited weekend run at TPAC’s Jackson Hall Friday, March 7 thru Sunday, March 9, I knew I had to chat with some of the company of the show’s current tour for the latest installment of my recurring interview feature, Rapid Fire Q&A.

To that end, what follows are my conversations with HADESTOWN’s Hades and Persephone, Nickolaus Colón and Namisa Mdlalose Bizana:

—————

RAPID FIRE Q&A WITH HADESTOWN STARS NICKOLAUS COLÓN AND NAMISA MDLALOSE BIZANA; NATIONAL TOUR AT TPAC BEGINNING MARCH 7

RAPID FIRE Q&A WITH NAMISA MDLALOSE BIZANA, PERSEPHONE IN HADESTOWN

JHPENTERTAINMENT: For the uninitiated, what is HADESTOWN about?

NAMISA MDLALOSE BIZANA: It’s about two intertwined love stories between Orpheus and Eurydice, and the gods Hades and Persephone. When the story begins Hades and Persephone are misaligned in their relationship which has consequences for the mortal world. In this discord Orpheus and Eurydice fall in love and then are faced with having to make choices based on love or survival. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What can you tell me about Persephone?

NAMISA MDLALOSE BIZANA: She’s a complex character with many layers to her. At face value she’s fun and charismatic but she has so much more to her. She quite literally holds light and darkness within her and must wade through the complexity that comes with it. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: This tour of HADESTOWN began in October of last year. You’ve been with the company since. Are you still discovering nuances of the character?

NAMISA MDLALOSE BIZANA: Of course. We’re playing gods. And by nature, there are endless possibilities.  

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What’s your favorite aspect of tour life?

NAMISA MDLALOSE BIZANA: Getting to meet people from all over the US. Getting to talk to audiences and schools. And of course, the food! We’ve just come from Dallas and of course I had to try some Texan BBQ and it’s everything I thought it would be!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Speaking of touring…any plans to tour The Parthenon while HADESTOWN sets up shop in Nashville? After all, we are the Athens of the South!

NAMISA MDLALOSE BIZANA: It’s definitely on my list!

RAPID FIRE Q&A WITH NICKOLAUS COLÓN, HADES IN HADESTOWN

JHPENTERTAINMENT: How familiar were you with the story of Hades and Persephone prior to taking on the role of Hades of the current tour of HADESTOWN?

NICKOLAUS COLÓN: Besides what I’ve seen of Hades depicted in movies and shows I hadn’t really had the exposure to the proper myths. I wish I had sooner because they are incredible to read about.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: In spite of connotations stirred simply by association of Hades and the underworld he rules, Hades, according to original mythos, is strong but rather passive and ultimately caring. What trait of Hades, as depicted in HADESTOWN, might you hope to mimic in your own life?

NICKOLAUS COLÓN: The greatest gift I’ve gotten from Hades has been a boost to my confidence. Confidence is power. To be able to hold myself to my full height when for so many years I’ve lowered myself to make others feel safe around me has been such a gift. I’ve always been confident in my abilities but ever since I put on the suit I’ve started to stand taller off the stage.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As Hades, you not only rule the underworld, but you’re also betrothed to Namisa Mdlalose Bizana’s Persephone. What is your favorite thing about sharing the stage with her?

NICKOLAUS COLÓN: Namisa has been an absolute blessing of a scene partner. From the moment I met her and she asked if we could just take a breath together before our final callback, I knew she was my Persephone. Even on days when tour is hard, I can always count on her to be there with me on that stage and to make me laugh.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Do you have a favorite musical moment in the show, whether it be yours or one that you just enjoy witnessing as a member of the company night at night?

NICKOLAUS COLÓN: Favorite musical moment for me would be during His Kiss, the Riot before I speak. The band and Fates watch as I slowly make my way around the stage to grab my stool and all the while they are fueling all the rage, fear, doubt, indecision, conflict that I am going through in that moment. Music is a powerful tool for storytelling.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What do you hope audiences come away remembering long after their visit to HADESTOWN?

NICKOLAUS COLÓN: I hope they leave and have a core memory of the time a room of 3000 people for 2 hours were able to put aside their differences and take the ride of truly investing in these two mythical love stories.

—————

The current tour of HADESTOWN plays TPAC’s Jackson Hall with five performances over the three day period of Friday, March 7 thru Sunday, March 9. Friday and Saturday evening performances are at 7:30pm with matinees Saturday at 2pm & Sunday at 1pm and a final Music City performance Sunday evening at 6:30pm. Ticket prices start at $48.30. CLICK HERE for tickets or more information. 

Not in Nashville? Be sure and check out HADESTOWN on Tour’s Official Site for upcoming cities including Johnson City, TN, Omaha, NE, Oxford, AL, Pensacola, FL, The Villages, FL, Columbia , SC and more as the tour continues. 

Among the many entertainment options coming to TPAC following HADESTOWN, TPAC’s HCA Healthcare/TriStar Heath Broadway at TPAC in partnership with Nissan continues next with the return of MAMMA MIA, on stage at TPAC’s Jackson Hall March 18-23. CLICK HERE for tickets. 

You can also follow TPAC on socials: TPAC on Instagram, X, YouTube and Facebook.

As always, if you wanna follow JHPEntertainment to find out who I’m chatting with for my next Rapid Fire Q&A, or for my take on the latest local and national theatre, music and movie offerings, find us at JHPEntertainment on Facebook, JHPEntertainment on Instagram  and JHPEntertainment on Twitter.

Got an event or show we should know about, drop us a line at the Contact tab. Till then, #GoSeeTheShow!

Rapid Fire 20Q with cast of ‘CHICAGO’; National Tour at TPAC’s Jackson Hall January 28- February 2

by

Considering the original 1975 Broadway smash hit CHICAGO came to the stage with musical pedigree in hand, thanks to music by John Kander, lyrics by Fred Ebb and an equally engaging book by Ebb and Bob Fosse, it should be no real shock that fifty years later, it’s still one of the most beloved musicals of all time. Proving it’s popularity, the 1996 revival now not only holds the record as Broadway’s longest-running musical revival and the longest running American musical in Broadway history. So naturally I was among the droves of fans excited to hear that the current National Tour is making its way back to Nashville as part of TPAC’s current HCA Healthcare/TriStar Health Broadway at TPAC series.

As the cast and crew of CHICAGO readied for their return to Music City at TPAC’s Jackson Hall January 28-February 2, I recently had the chance to chat up four of the show’s cast. So settle in as CHICAGO stars Taylor Lane, Ellie Roddy, Connor Sullivan and Illy Kirven take the stand for the latest edition of my recurring interview feature, Rapid Fire 20Q.

Rapid Fire 20Q with cast of CHICAGO; National Tour at TPAC’s Jackson Hall January 28- February 2

Rapid Fire with Taylor Lane, Velma Kelly in CHICAGO National Tour

JHPENTERTAINMENT: The current National Tour of the iconic CHICAGO kicked off just a few months ago. What has it been like to step into the role of Velma Kelly thus far?

TAYLOR LANE: Stepping into the role of Velma Kelly has been an absolute thrill. It’s a dream come true to bring such an iconic character to life. I’ve loved diving into her strength, sass, and complexity, and it’s been an incredible challenge to embody her boldness while making her my own.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As Velma, you are front and center leading the ensemble during the show’s spectacular, high-octane All That Jazz. Of course renowned choreographer Bob Fosse created the moves for the original production, and his style is typically honored by incorporating some Fosse-esque moves. The current national tour is using the equally iconic 1996 revival Ann Reinking choreo with Gregory Butler recreating Reinking’s choreography. Do you have a particular dance-centric moment in the open, or elsewhere in the show, that you absolutely love performing night after night? 

TAYLOR LANE: Absolutely! There’s no better feeling than rising onto the stage, Fosse-walking to center stage, and diving into the intricate, precise moves of All That Jazz with the entire ensemble dancing in perfect unison behind me. The energy is electric, and it’s surreal to perform these legendary dance steps that we had the great honor of learning from Gregory Butler passed down from Ann Reinking. Some of my favorite moves in the show include the ‘pippin’ and ‘the lola’.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Another choreo-heavy number is I Can’t Do It Alone. I can’t wait to see this company take on this ‘act of desperation’. On the subject of choreography. How much time goes into rehearsing the dance sequences for a show like CHICAGO?

TAYLOR LANE: We rehearsed for three weeks in New York City before heading out on the road. During that time, we learned all the music, choreography, and the book of the show, including lines and staging. Now that we’re performing regularly on tour, our dance captains give us notes to keep the show as sharp and clean as possible. We also have scheduled brush-up rehearsals with our choreographer to ensure we’re staying true to the original intention behind the choreography.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Some audience members may not realize it, but CHICAGO is actually based on real life murderesses. Belva Gaertner, a thrice-married cabaret singer who murdered her married lover in 1924. Have you done any research on Belva in preparation for the role?

TAYLOR LANE: Yes, I’ve done some research on Belva Gaertner, the real-life inspiration behind Velma Kelly. It’s fascinating to learn about her story and how her persona influenced the character. Understanding the historical context and her bold, unapologetic attitude has helped me bring depth to Velma while still making her my own. It’s incredible to step into a role rooted in real history but reimagined with all the flair and style of CHICAGO.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Since I’m about to chat with Ellie Roddy, who plays Roxie opposite your Velma, can tell me how it’s been to share the stage with her?

TAYLOR LANE: It’s such an honor to share the stage with the brilliance that is Ellie Roddy. Unlike our characters, who have a rivalry in the show, I absolutely adore her and love performing with her every night. She’s an incredible actress, and I truly enjoy getting to play off her energy onstage. My absolute favorite moment is singing Nowadays and dancing Hot Honey Rag with her at the end of the show. There’s something so special about dancing together as two powerful women—it brings me so much joy.

Rapid Fire with Ellie Roddy, Roxie Hart in  CHICAGO National Tour

JHPENTERTAINMENT:  When I spoke with Taylor Lane, I mentioned the fact that CHICAGO is based on real life murderesses. Your character, Roxie Hart is based on Beulah May Annan, a bookkeeper, who, while arguing with her lover, ‘reached for the gun’. What can you share about your creative process in playing Roxie?

ELLIE RODDY: It really was such a journey, and it’s still ever evolving. I find I continue to learn more and more nuances about this character the more I perform the role! They gave me a lot of freedom, creatively speaking. What’s really unique about CHICAGO is that yes, it is set staging and choreography that’s been on the Broadway stage since 1997, but it’s tailored to each and every individual and caters to their strengths. They play with each person’s individuality for each company member that is joining the CHICAGO family. It was a lot of trial and error for me. I’d try out a bit or try a certain inflection for certain lines, and they’d tweak it or we’d start fresh from the drawing board. It was one of the greatest gifts to receive as an actor, the trial and error with a safe space to play. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: In the previous question, I alluded to the song We Both Reached for the Gun. This number is one of my favorites in the show–admittedly there are several favorites. I love that Roxie is so bent on stealing the spotlight from Velma as the latest notorious murderess that she’s willing to do whatever her hot shot lawyer Billy Flynn (played by Connor Sullivan) tells her. How much fun have you are you and Connor having in fine-tuning this particular number?

ELLIE RODDY: On a scale of 1-10 I’d say 100. Oh, it is one of my absolute favorite parts in the show. It’s such a smart song and plot line. And not only is it catchy, but Greg Butler’s choreography and specificity with it is brilliant within the story telling aspect of it as well. Everything is so mapped out to a tee, and it’s so much fun to get to do. And to hear the crowd roar for Connor is nothing less than spectacular. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Of course Roxie’s big number is, well..Roxie. If you had to rate the level of razzle dazzle in this particular sequence, what would you rate it, and why?

ELLIE RODDY: That is such a great question! Because it’s the first time in the show you really get to see her honesty and her point of view (now whether or not it is entirely the truth is up for debate) but it’s the first time where she gets to be stripped down as herself, vamped by a walking bass and piano line. When rehearsing the monologue into the song, David Hyslop and Greg Butler encouraged me to think of something like “Judy Garland’s one woman show, sitting at the front of the stage, microphone in hand, sharing a story with lots of charm and charisma.” So, with that in mind, it’s not so much flashy razzle dazzle, it’s little sparks and glitters weaved within. It’s more internal, and you get to go on the journey with Roxie and her dream and learn about her WHY. It just happens to be in a little tongue-in-cheek way. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT:  Since the show tells the tale of a group of felonious females, I’m just gonna ask….IF you could get away with murder, how would you choose to pull off the ultimate crime?

ELLIE RODDY: Ooh, I have never been asked this question before! Personally, I do watch some true crime documentaries/tv shows and have listened to some podcasts in the past, because I find the topic so fascinating. IF I could get away with murder, I think I would probably claim an act of self-defense, such as Roxie. Again, emphasis on IF! 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: In spite of the fact that much of the show takes place in the Cook County Jail, CHICAGO features some gorgeous period-authentic 1920’s fashions courtesy six-time Tony-winning costume designer William Ivy Long. What’s your favorite piece of wardrobe in the show?

ELLIE RODDY: I think my favorite piece that I personally wear is the open back dress when I do Roxie. It’s a gorgeous tight fit lace dress with an open back, and I think it’s so sleek and classy, but has a little edge to it. As for the entire show, I think the costume that Faith Jordan Candino (Mona) or Serena Kozusko (Swing/DC) wears! I feel fortunate enough that during our rehearsal process in NYC this past September, I got to go to William Ivey Long Studios in person, and try on a handful of archived costume pieces to find the perfect fit! It was such an honor. 

Rapid Fire with Connor Sullivan, Billy Flynn in National Tour of Chicago

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Who is Billy Flynn to you?

CONNOR SULLIVAN: To me, Billy is a person who loves what he does and works hard to make sure he stays at the top of his field. He views the legal system as a game, and he is fiercely competitive. His goal is to win, and he feels no qualms about doing whatever he needs to in order to make that happen. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT:  Billy Flynn, like most lawyers, comes off as suave, manipulative and driven by the opportunity to gain notoriety and success by painting his murderous clients as victims themselves. Those are a few of Billy’s less-savory characteristics. Have you discovered any redeeming qualities while creating your version of him?

CONNOR SULLIVAN: Billy is passionate about defending his clients and protecting his people. There are aspects of loyalty and verve to him that are, if not redeeming, at least somewhat positive. Once you are on his team, he will do whatever it takes to get you over the finish line with him. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT:  If you weren’t cast as Billy, who would you ‘kill’ to play in the show?

CONNOR SULLIVAN: I would love to play Velma Kelly. She has such a fearless tenacity that I think would be fun to embody every night. However, I could never do the role justice the way that Taylor Lane does – she’s currently playing Velma on our tour! 

JHPENTERTAINMENT:  One of your big numbers as Billy is Razzle Dazzle. It speaks of giving it everything you’ve got to wow the crowd. What is it about your three female co-stars: Taylor, Ellie and illy that will ‘razzle dazzle’ Nashville’s audiences?

CONNOR SULLIVAN: Ellie Roddy is a true triple threat performer. Her acting, vocal, and dance chops all shine through in her performance. Taylor Lane really captures the essence of who Velma is – her performance is self assured, grounded, and edgy. Illy is an incredible vocalist and has one of my favorite numbers in the show. She brings such a powerful presence to the stage and to our company! 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: CHICAGO first opened on Broadway in 1975. The 1996 revival, from which this tour was born, is now the longest running revival in the history of Broadway. What’s it like being part of such a storied show?

CONNOR SULLIVAN: It has been such a huge blessing to be part of a show with the legacy that CHICAGO has. Working with our incredible creative team, some of whom have been with the show since the revival opened in 1996, has been the biggest honor of my career! 

Rapid Fire with Illeana ‘illy’ Kirven, Matron Mama Morton in CHICAGO National Tour

JHPENTERTAINMENT:  As Mama Morton, you get to belt out the show-stopping tune When You’re Good To Mama. It’s just one in a show full of wickedly wonderful tune by Broadway legends Kander and Ebb. How magical is it to perform such iconic tunes?

ILLY KIRVEN: From the time Matron Mama Morton is announced, the crowd is ready for her. Every night I am blessed to take to the stage to sing this incredibly iconic song. It truly feels like a gift. It’s a gift I’ve been given to give, but I also receive great gifts back from each audience, every single show. I’m completely humbled and honored to follow in the footsteps of so many iconic women who have filled Mama’s shoes. It really does feel quite magical. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Which leads me to my next question…With such a grand theatrical history, there’s been so many fabulous actresses who’s brought Mama Morton to life. From Mary McCarty who originated the role on Broadway to my pal, Roz Ryan, who’s played her more than any other actress, having appeared both on Broadway in the revival and numerous subsequent tours. Can you reveal just a hint of how you’re making Mama your own?

ILLY KIRVEN: I love Ms. Roz Ryan so much. How amazing that you get to call this legend “friend”. I actually have photos that were printed for me for continuous inspiration with many of the ladies who have portrayed Mama including Ms. Ryan and Ms. McCarty. I did quite a bit of research for the role. Every video or sound byte I could find of various Mama’s singing voices and speaking styles were taken into consideration. I put lots of bits and pieces together of my own in order to let the director mold me into the Mama that works best for this current production. I like to think that I carry parts of all of them within me while putting myself fully into the soul of Mama. I won’t give away any more, but I hope the ladies would appreciate the performance if they were in the audience.

JHPENTERTAINMENT:  CHICAGO first debuted on Broadway in 1975, then was revived in 1996 and is still running both on Broadway and as a tour in both the US and UK. Since you play the prison matron, I’ll ask you…what makes CHICAGO such arresting entertainment?

ILLY KIRVEN: I believe it is such “arresting entertainment” because it completely captivates you from the very first introduction. Even the opening announcements draw you in before one note is played or sung. You can literally see audience members leaning forward and trying not to miss a single moment. 

CHICAGO, the Musical is written so well. Even the words have rhythm. And it’s got all the aspects that bring excitement to live entertainment: greed, corruption, violence, romance, coupled with beautiful performers and incredible song and dance. It is a show that continues to WOW audiences. Whether it’s their first time or their fifth time seeing it, it has a tendency to win fans over who come back over and over again. I think it’ll be around for many years to come. I’d definitely love and appreciate that. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: When we began chatting, I mentioned Mama’s big number, When You’re Good To Mama, so I gotta ask…what’s it take to be good to Illeana?

ILLY KIRVEN: Honestly, I’m not complicated. I like simple things. I enjoy learning, traveling and exploring. I really love my family, friends, cast, orchestra, crew and people who are genuinely kind.  That’s all. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT:  Alright, one last question for you before this inquisition is over…What do you hope audiences take with them long after the last lights out at the Cook County Jail?

ILLY KIRVEN: I hope the show leads them to want to learn more about the real Roxie, Velma &  other characters in the show. A lot of people do not realize that the musical is based on real life happenings. I hope audiences are inspired to want to know more. 

But mostly, I want our audiences to leave feeling fully entertained. I’d want them to go home energized with some really great music in their hearts for a long time. 

—————

CHICAGO  TPAC’s Jackson Hall January 28 thru February 2. CLICK HERE for tickets. After their Music City dates, CHICAGO heads to Dayton, OH, Knoxville, TN, College Station, TX and more as the tour continues through June. To follow Chicago on Tour, check out their Official Website, or find them on Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube.

Up next for Broadway at TPAC, it’s the Music City premiere engagement of the Broadway hit & Juliet, playing Jackson Hall February 11-16. CLICK HERE. You can also follow TPAC on socials: TPAC on Instagram, X, YouTube and Facebook.

As always, if you wanna follow JHPEntertainment to find out who I’m chatting with for my next Rapid Fire Q&A, or for my take on the latest local and national theatre, music and movie offerings, find us at JHPEntertainment on Facebook, JHPEntertainment on Instagram  and JHPEntertainment on Twitter.

Got an event or show we should know about, drop us a line at the Contact tab. Till then, #GoSeeTheShow!

Rapid Fire 20Q with Cast and Creatives of ‘Moulin Rouge’; National Tour at TPAC beginning October 8

by

Having been a fan of Moulin Rouge since first seeing the Baz Luhrmann‘s 2001 film, I was trilled to learn that the recent 10-time Tony-winning Broadway stage musical would be making its way to TPAC as part of their current Broadway at TPAC season!

My excited expanded ten-fold when I was recently given the opportunity to interview members of the tour…and not just anybody associated with the company, but three of the show’s lead actors AND the show’s wardrobe supervisor.

So put on your sparkliest of diamonds and get ready for my most Spectacular! Spectacular! Rapid Fire 20Q ever!

Rapid Fire 20Q with Cast and Creatives of Moulin Rouge National Tour

Rapid Fire with Moulin Rouge’s Harold Zidler, Robert Petkoff

JHPENTERTAINMENT: I’m just gonna be honest…I LOVE the character Harold Zidler, the role you play in the National Tour of Moulin Rouge. He’s truly one of the most flamboyant, hilariously brilliant roles in modern musical theatre. Who is Harold Zidler to you and how much fun have you been having playing him this past year?

ROBERT PETKOFF: For me Harold is this very complicated man who has one goal when the show starts: Keep the party going. Harold is so many things. Harold is the consummate showman. A charmer, a father figure, a grifter, a survivor.  He and Satine have both made it from the mean streets to the pinnacle of entertainment in Paris of the 1890’s through talent, sheer grit and determination. I think he’s both a kitten and tough as nails when he needs to be. He is truly one of the most fun characters I’ve ever played. There are so many different versions of himself that he shows throughout the evening and that’s an actor’s dream.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: While Moulin Rouge is a jukebox musical, it’s so much more. Heck there’s something like fourteen songs featured in the opening number alone! Speaking of the music, a year after taking on the role of Zidler for the tour, is there a musical moment that you still revel in being a part of night after night?

ROBERT PETKOFF: I really enjoy hearing the audience when I begin singing Chandelier. They start to laugh when they realize what the song is and that Harold is going to sing it. I love the song and NEVER thought I would be singing it on a stage.  It’s a perfect song for the character because the chorus has the feel of a party but there’s a sense of desperation at its core.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: When not onstage, you also enjoy an award-winning career as a audiobook narrator and voice over artist. What’s been the most bizarre or most memorable commercial or audiobook gig you’ve had?

ROBERT PETKOFF: The first thing that comes to mind is doing part of Hamlet‘s “To Be Or Not To Be” monologue as a dog for a commercial years ago. I sounded a bit like Scooby Doo. It was crazy. Some of the audiobook work can feel so insane as I’m voicing every part. It can be quite interesting (and funny) doing love scenes with myself, for instance. The voice work I’ve done has been a real lifesaver in my career allowing me to pick and choose roles in my stage career.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: While Zidler’s excited and excitable showman voice is a huge part of the character, there’s also the look. What can you tell me about your transformation to Zidler with the help of Hair and Makeup Supervisor, Tereza Cordeiro?

ROBERT PETKOFF: When I first joined the company I was asked to use my own hair and let it get wild.  A combination of volumizing hair powder and lots of hairspray. I have to say it REALLY helps me get into the character to do the hairstyle.  Looking at myself in the mirror and seeing that hair and my mustache and goatee really propels me into Harold. It’s a very showy look that I get to work against from time to time. When Harold gets very serious it is an odd juxtaposition with my look but I think that makes it much more interesting.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Of course Moulin Rouge is just the latest National Tour of which you’ve been a part. If memory (and a little research) serves, your last visit to Nashville during a tour that occurred back in 2017 when you appeared at TPAC as Bruce in Fun Home. During that visit did you discover any Music City spots that you hope to introduce to your Moulin Rouge family during your upcoming Nashville tour stop?

ROBERT PETKOFF: Well, the first thing that comes to mind is all of the honky tonks on Broadway.  I loved walking down Broadway at night after the performance of Fun Home and passing place after place with amazing live music.  There’s such fantastic energy there. So I can’t wait to introduce that experience to some of my castmates. 

Rapid Fire with Moulin Rouge’s Christian, Christian Douglas

JHPENTERTAINMENT: While preparing to chat with you, I did my usual Internet sleuthing..I love that your insta lays it out so clearly..”a songwriter named Cristian playing a songwriter named Christian. How would you describe Christian?

CHRISTIAN DOUGLAS: I would describe Christian as a heart-forward hopeless romantic, who comes to Paris seeking art, adventure and above all else, love.  His journey through the show is a stripping away of his innocence and his naive view of the world.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: It’s been just over a year since you took over the role of Christian on tour. Has your perception and portrayal of Christian changed in the past year?

CHRISTIAN DOUGLAS: My portrayal and perception hasn’t necessarily changed but rather deepened.  I have always felt connected to Christian, the character, but after a year of performing the same role, I think you start to sink a little deeper and find new moments of stillness and groundedness amidst the sometime chaotic world of the Moulin Rouge, allowing for the heightened moments to really pop and the real, more serious moments live in a more authentic place. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Baz Luhrmann directed, produced and co-wrote the 2001 film upon which the stage musical is based. I, myself have been a fan of everything Baz since Strictly Ballroom. What was your introduction Luhrmann’s work and what is it about his creativity that you admire most?

CHRISTIAN DOUGLAS: I first saw Moulin Rouge when I was in high school and loved it ever since.  I think he has a genius way intertwining the larger than life, spectacular and farcical elements, of the story with the realistic, emotional and heartbreaking elements of the love story.  He truly transports you to another world. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Prior to taking on your current role, you’ve previously been part of equally iconic theatre, including Muny’s West Side Story and the Off-Broadway revival of Kinky Boots. These shows, like Moulin Rouge, boasts fabulous musical moments. On that subject, Act 1’s closer Elephant Love Medley, a personal favorite musical moment of mine from the film and a continuing favorite from the stage musical’s score, features a few updates. Do you have a favorite musical moment in the show yourself?

CHRISTIAN DOUGLAS: While I love the epic nature of El Tango de Roxanne, I always love singing Come What May the most.  The song is so timelessly beautiful and that moment between Christian and Satine always feels really special.  It is their last moment to connect before things start to go south. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: I’m about to chat with your new leading lady, Arianna Rossario, who assumed the role of Satine just a few weeks ago, almost a year to the day of you taking on Christian full time. Did you offer her any advice as she stepped into the spotlight?

CHRISTIAN DOUGLAS: No advice needed! She is an absolute star and a pleasure to share the stage with.  I’m just excited to share in this new chapter of leading the show together. 

Rapid Fire with Moulin Rouge’s Satine, Arianna Rosario

JHPENTERTAINMENT: After having been part of the Broadway ensemble in 2022, you initially joined the tour as the alternate for the role of Satine, but as of the tour’s recent Detroit dates, you’ve now assumed the role of Satine. What’s your Moulin Rouge journey been like so far and how excited are you to be taking on the pivotal role of Satine full time?

ARIANNA ROSARIO: My Moulin Rouge journey so far has been unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. I was a huge fan of the film when it originally came out and always felt like it would lend itself well to a stage adaptation. I originally saw the Broadway production on reopening night, 9/24/21 and was so blown away that I knew that I wanted to be a part of the show at some point in my career. I joined the Broadway company a few months later in March of 2022 as a part of the Heels Ensemble and cover for Arabia, during my time there the directing team reached out to see if I would be interested in doing a work session for possible coverage of Satine. Flash forward to going out on tour as the Alternate for Satine September of 2023, and now officially taking over the full time role of Satine 9/24/24. It feels like a huge full circle moment. It’s not easy trying to change the perception of what you are capable of doing when in the ensemble of a show, sometimes this industry likes to put people in boxes so that its easier for the people that make the decisions to find a place for you. I am forever grateful to our Creative Team for seeing something in me and in turn trusting me to tell this beautiful story every night. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Is there an aspect of Satine’s personality that you admire most and might want to incorporate into your own life?

ARIANNA ROSARIO: I feel like in my real life I have more of a quiet confidence to me whereas Satine has this fierceness about her that is so apparent from the second she comes down on the swing. She’s definitely taught me how to be more comfortable standing in my power as a woman. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Like you, I’ve been in love with Moulin Rouge since seeing the film back in 2001. I can’t tell you how excited I am to finally see the stage musical. What more can you share about your memories of being introduced to Baz’s work?

ARIANNA ROSARIO: I absolutely loved the film when it came out, I used to create my own dance numbers to the soundtrack and perform them for an imaginary audience in my bedroom. There’s something special about the worlds that Baz is able to create, it allows you to suspend reality for a second and become so immersed in the story being told. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Can we just talk about Satine’s entrance with the swing? It’s such a huge moment int he show. Is that something that has to be adjusted for each city on the tour depending on the venue logistics and capabilities? What was the rehearsal process like for this iconic scene in particular?

ARIANNA ROSARIO: When venues book our show they usually have a reference of the space we are going to need to do the show in its entirety. We travel to each city with our own show deck, which gets broken down and set up with each venue change. That deck has tracks for set pieces and scenery which are typically automated. The rigging for the swing is also something that lives in the fly space above the stage, so its going to be the same city to city as well and because of that we’ve never had to adjust it. The rehearsal process is actually quite quick. In preparation for my initial put -in (its a rehearsal where we run the show with costumes and all of the normal show elements without an audience) I had a day where I was able to go up in the swing and figure out how I needed to move to minimize the swinging from side to side. Then the day of my put-in I was able to go up once more in costume to see how that felt in the corset.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: A huge part of the visual excellence of Moulin Rouge comes in the form of the gorgeous costumes. I’m about to chat with Michael Hannah, the company’s Wardrobe Supervisor, so to transition into that…do you have a favorite Satine costume? AND…why is it your favorite?

ARIANNA ROSARIO: They are all so incredibly beautiful it’s hard to choose just one! I have two for different reasons, the first would have to be the corset I wear during Chandelier as The Green Fairy. The detail in the beading on it is so beautiful and it’s so different from a lot of the other corsets in the show. My second favorite is the red dress I wear for Roxanne. It reminds me so much of the dress Nicole Kidman wears in the Elephant Love Medley in the film and just feels so iconic for Satine. 

Rapid Fire with Moulin Rouge Wardrobe Supervisor, Michael Hannah

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Alright, let’s just get into it…how many costumes are there in Moulin Rouge?

MICHAEL HANNAH: There are 220 complete costumes in the show.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As Wardrobe Supervisor, you’re entrusted to the care and maintenance of each and every piece of wardrobe originally conceived by the show’s Tony-winning costume designer, Catherine Zuber. Is that fact still a pinch me moment for you?

MICHAEL HANNAH: It is quite an honor to be entrusted with the care of these beautiful costumes.  I admire Catherine and her work a great deal.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Of course you’re not alone in those responsibilities. You not only have a wardrobe team, but I understand that in each city of the tour, you bring in local wardrobe artisans to help keep the costumes show ready. Does that help keep your job fresh and exciting?

MICHAEL HANNAH: I have 2 Assistants that travel with the show as well as an advance person.  In each city we hire 9 Dressers, a full time Stitcher and a full time Laundry person.  Moving to different cities with the show is sometimes challenging but exploring new places is always exciting.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Which cast member has the most wardrobe changes and how many are there for them?

MICHAEL HANNAH: Satine has approximately 14 costume changes some of which need to take place in 45 seconds for her to make her next entrance.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: I typically end these interviews with a variation of this question…What do you hope audiences come away from Moulin Rouge remembering log after the lights dim and the music fades?

MICHAEL HANNAH: I feel one of the most exciting aspects of Moulin Rouge is the lavish decadence of the era in which the show is set.  The audience is exposed to a colorful feast for the eyes.  Along with the beautiful love story and all of the music  is a visual experience that I think the audience will take with them.

 

Moulin Rouge brings is sparkling musical magic to TPAC with shows Tuesday, October 8 thru Sunday, October 20. CLICK HERE for tickets. Not in Nashville, but wanna catch the show on tour? Well, you certainly can can can..CLICK HERE for the show’s official site and follow on Facebook, X, Insta and YouTube to see where they’re headed next.

Following Moulin Rouge, TPAC‘s Broadway season continues with Shucked, November 5-10. CLICK HERE for more info and to see what else is headed to TPAC. You can also follow TPAC at their official site  and on socials: TPAC on Instagram, X, YouTube and Facebook.

As always, if you wanna follow JHPEntertainment to find out who I’m chatting with for my next Rapid Fire Q&A, or for my take on the latest local and national theatre, music and movie offerings, find us at JHPEntertainment on Facebook, JHPEntertainment on Instagram  and JHPEntertainment on Twitter.

Got an event or show we should know about, drop us a line at the Contact tab. Till then, #GoSeeTheShow!

Theatre Review: The Cast of ‘Clue’…in Jackson Hall…with razor-sharp dialogue and killer comedic timing; National Tour based on mystery board game and beloved 80s farce in Nashville at TPAC thru Sunday, September 15

by

Whether or not you’ve played the board game Clue (Cluedo if you’re from across the pond), or have seen the 1985 star-studded movie adaptation, or even the lesser-known more recent teen-drama miniseries reboot, the stage adaptation, Clue Live on Stage, currently on a National Tour and playing Music City at TPAC’s Jackson Hall thru Sunday, September 15, is just plain fun. For clarity’s sake, it should be noted that this is the straight comedy play, not the poorly received 90s musical adaptation.

Taking a cue from Clue’s own history, the play takes place in the 1950s. Appropriate, considering the original board game first appeared in shops in the UK in 1949 by British game manufacturer, Waddingtons, with a US launch by Parker Brothers following. That bit of Parker Brothers knowledge will serve you well when you see the show, as a bit of clever dialogue makes reference to the famed siblings.

At the time of the game’s initial release, murder mystery writer Dame Agatha Christie’s fame was at its height, so a board game in which the players assume the roles of a group of people who’s seemingly only shared experience is being at the wrong place at the wrong time when a murder is committed seemed perfect fodder for a new board game. The movie, and now the stage version, go one step further, making mention of the Red Scare of the time and cleverly tying all the players into a political web of lies and deceit. Sound’s oddly current, right?  Not to worry, there’s only a jab or two at modern day politics.

All of the action of the play takes place at Boddy Manor, a stately New England mansion on a dark and stormy night, where six supposed strangers are summoned via mysterious letters inviting each of them to attend a dinner party, under assumed names. On the subject of Body Manor, Set Designer Lee Savage’s Boddy Manor is the stuff of which haunted mansions are made. Again, those familiar with the game will delight as the rooms of the mansion are explored as memories of commercials for the board game reenter their collective subconscious. I remember many a Saturday morning watching my favorite cartoons and seeing Clue commercials in which players attempting to solve the mystery would declare their guesses, “Mr. Green…in the study…with a knife” or “Mrs. Peacock…in the library…with a rope” and so on.

Where character portrayal is concerned, Clue could be considered a bit of a theatrical anomaly. Typically actors stepping into roles made famous by others are charged with making the character their own, but Clue, a true farce, almost demands that the company present the characters pretty much as those who portrayed the roles in the film had done. That’s not to discredit the actors in any way, but to thank them for brilliantly recreating moments and actions of the film to glorious life live on stage.

As the curtain rose at Jackson Hall Opening Night, Elisabeth Yancy’s Yvette, the French Maid was the first of the familiar characters to be seen as she stood centerstage drying a cocktail glass with a white cloth. Why was such a mundane task noticeable, you might ask. Because she was doing so in perfect syncopated rhythm to the mood-setting music. It’s little details like this peppered throughout the show that help to make Clue such an enjoyable night of theatre.

Next the audience meets Wadsworth, the Butler, played opening night by James Taylor Odom (filling in for a mysteriously  absent Mark Price). Of course Tim Curry played Wadsworth in the film and in doing so, created an iconic interpretation of the character. To his credit, Odom stepped up to the plate during his performance and played Wadsworth with the perfect amount of cheek, sarcasm and charm.

The manor staff is rounded out by Mariah Burks as The Cook. Sassy and indifferent towards a former employer (remember, earlier I said they were all seemingly strangers…well, they’re not). Burks’ Cook, though her time on stage is limited, makes the most of her scenes. Spoiler Alert: Even in mortem, Burks’ Cook continues to provide laughs by way of being anything but a dead weight. Added Bonus: Burks reappears later in the play in another of the most memorable moments, but I’ll not spoil that.

Then there’s the evening’s host, the aptronymically named Mr. Boddy played by Alex Syiek. Brooding and thuggish, it makes sense that Mr. Boddy would become the night’s first victim…or does he?

As for the suspects, Christina Anthony’s Miss Scarlet is among my favorites. A wonderful departure from Lesley Ann Warren’s Miss Scarlet in the film, I love that every time she utters a double-entendre line that could be considered cringe by today’s easily offended audience, she breaks the fourth wall, winces and smiles as through she’s almost embarrassed at how silly what she’s just said is. Scarlet is the perfect color, as her performance is red hot!

John Treacy Egan as Colonel Mustard is as perfectly bumbling as Martin Mull was in the movie. Watch closely kids. While the entire cast is running throughout the mansion trying to find particular pieces of evidence that incriminates them all, Egan holds up a larger than life map of the join that will delight board game nerds. I may or may not have laughed a little too loud at that moment.

Joanna Glushak’s Mrs. Peacock is a lovely nod to the slightly ditzy way the character was played in the film by Eileen Brennan. Professor Plum, played by Jonathan Spivey, seems a bit more nefarious than Christopher Lloyd’s portrayed him back in 1985. This slightly darker element works well in separating Plum from the other characters.

John Shartzer’s Mr. Green (the Michael McKean role in the film) is the scene stealer of the show. With precise comedic timing, hilariously deadpan reactions and borderline acrobatic slapstick movement, Shartzer is suspect Number 1 is so many ways.

If any character besides Wadsworth is more closely associated with the film version, it’s Madeline Kahn’s Mrs. White. To that end, Tari Kelly takes full ownership of the role for the current stage presentation, and she does so with hilarious result. Near show’s end, when she stepped forward and uttered THE lines…you know the ones…”Flames! Flames on the side of my face!”, yours truly may or may not have gotten a little verklempt while spontaneously applauding. I gotta be honest, I felt Nashville’s Opening Night crowd didn’t appreciate this great moment in theatre as much as I did.

And can we just talk about the last few minutes of the show…again, with a huge ole wink to the film, in particular the multiple alternate ending scenarios ear the close of the show. For context, at the time of the film’s release, three prints of the film were distributed in each major city with three distinct endings naming a different murderer. So, you’d only know the three different endings IF you saw the movie more than once, and in a different theatre each time, each time. Genius marketing and a guaranteed box office boost, right? But I digress…at play’s end, Wadsworth and company perform a comedic rapid rewind again and again when each of the suspects takes the spotlight as various scenarios of who did what to whom and where play out in hilarious succession. WIth each retelling, the action gets more frantic and the reenactments more delightfully raucous.

Clue Live on Stage! will play Nashville from September 10 thru September 15 at TPAC’s Jackson Hall. For Tickets or more info, CLICK HERE. Not in Music City? Clue continues its National Tour through Spring of 2025 with stops across the US. CLICK HERE for Clue’s current schedule. You can always follow Clue Live on Stage! by visiting their official site, or by following them on Facebook and Instagram.

Next up in TPAC’s 2024/2025 HCA TriStar Broadway Season, it’s Moulin Rouge! The Musical (on stage October 8-20). CLICK HERE for tickets. For further details on more entertainment headed to TPAC, CLICK HERE or follow TPAC on Instagram, X, YouTube and Facebook.

In preparation of attending Opening Night of Clue Live on Stage! In Nashville, I did a little research to refamiliarize myself. After all, it’s been 75 years since the board game was first introduced (I was NOT around for that by the way) and it’s been nearly 40 years since I first saw the movie (and YES, during its original theatrical release, I was among the many fans fell for the above-mentioned marketing gimmick and saw it three times in three different theaters. Simply because I did my research I’ll share the following tidbits:

  • Waddingtons produced the game in the UK, while the US version was initially distracted by Parker Brothers.
  • Both companies were purchased by Hasbro in the 1990s.
  • The original UK board game was named Cluedo, A combination of the English word ‘Clue’ and the Latin word ‘Ludo’ which means “I play”.
  • Ludo was also the name of an existing board game, but because American audiences wouldn’t be familiar, the game was simply called Clue for its American debut.
  • The original concept featured 10 characters…nine suspects and one victim. During development, Mr. Brown, Mr. Gold, Miss Grey and Mrs Silver were eliminated, while Nurse White and Colonel Yellow became Mrs. White and Colonel Mustard.
  • The UK version has Reverend Green while the US version has Mr. Green.
  • The concept board first featured 11 room. The Gun Room and The Cellar were eventually eliminated leaving The Library, The Kitchen, The Conservatory, The Lounge, The Billiards Room, The Hall, The Study, The Ballroom and The Dining Room.
  • Weapons initially included such things as syringe, bomb, walking stick, fireplace poker, axe and poison.
  • Over the years there have been more than a dozen versions of the board game.
  • TV commercials have featured everyone from Sherlock Holmes and Watson to an inept detective reminiscent of Inspector Clouseau from The Pink Panther films.
  • The 1985 film adaptation wasn’t exactly a box office hit, but did garner a cult following in later years.
  • Jonathan Lynn (who’d go on to direct My Cousin Vinnie), directed the feature film.
  • Lynn cowrote the screenplay with John Landis (among Landis’ accolades, he directed An American Werewolf in London, Trading places and Michael Jackson’s Thriller video).
  • The movie was produced by Debra Hill (best known for having co-produced the original Halloween).
  • As early as 2009, there’s been talk of a remake of the 1985 film.
  • The musical adaptation debuted in 1995 and was presented off-Broadway in 1997.
  • The musical version closed after 17 previews and 29 performances.
  • One favorable aspect of the musical involved a bit of interactive theatre, allowing the audience to proclaim the murderer.
  • In 2011, a mini-series based on Clue, and starring six teenage/twenty-somethings premiered on The Hub, a network joint venture between Harbro and Discovery Kids.
  • Original 1985 film screenplay co-writer Jonathan Lynn adapted the story for the stage in 2017.
  • The stage play premiered in 2017 at Bucks County Playhouse adapted by Hunter Foster, whose sister is Sutton Foster.
  • The stage play was further revised by Sandy Rustin, premiering in 2020.
  • The current national tour, directed by Casey Hushion began in 2024.

As always, if you wanna follow JHPEntertainment to find out who I’m chatting with for my next Rapid Fire Q&A, or for my take on the latest local and national theatre, music and movie offerings, find us at JHPEntertainment on Facebook, JHPEntertainment on Instagram  and JHPEntertainment on Twitter.

Got an event or show we should know about, drop us a line at the Contact tab. Till then, #GoSeeTheShow!

Rapid Fire Q&A with Disney’s Frozen National Tour’s Olaf and Kristoff, Broadway stars Jeremy Davis and Nicholas Edwards; at TPAC May 7 thru May 18

by

Since the 2013 release of Disney’s Frozen, Anna, Elsa, Kristoff, Olaf and the rest of the residents of Arendelle have become an undeniable part of a world-wide pop culture phenomenon. The box-office-breaking original prompted a film sequel (with two more film entries coming). There’s been a televised holiday special, a line of character costumes, hundreds of toys, books and board games, video games, even a Frozen-themed Disney on Ice…heck, you name it and it probably exists in the Frozen universe. Fans just won’t Let it Go! Of all the Frozen tie-ins, Frozen: The Broadway Musical has proven just as beloved as the original film. Frozen debuted on Broadway in March 2018 and enjoyed a popular run until March 2020 due to the pandemic. Midway through the Broadway run, a North American National Tour and several international tours began. Following a brief hiatus in 2020, the US National Tour began again in September 2021. Earlier this year, the US tour celebrated its 1000th performance.

On May 7, For the First Time in Forever, Music City will get the chance to experience Frozen: The Broadway Musical when the National Tour descends on TPAC’s Jackson Hall for performances through May 18. For the latest installment of my recurring Rapid Fire interview feature, in advance of Frozen: The Broadway Musical’s Nashville tour stop, I recently had the chance to chat with two of the show’s stars, Jeremy Davis and Nicholas Edwards, who play Olaf and Kristoff, respectively, What follows are those conversations.

—————

RAPID FIRE Q&A WITH DISNEY’s FROZEN NATIONAL TOUR’s JEREMY DAVIS and NICHOLAS EDWARDS

RAPID FIRE WITH FROZEN’s OLAF, JEREMY DAVIS

JHPENTERTAINMENT: A quick peek at your show bio reveals you’ve been part of Frozen since the show was workshopped prior to its Broadway debut. Then you were initially part of the Broadway ensemble and understudy for Olaf. When did you first take the stage as Olaf and what do you remember most about that night?

JEREMY DAVIS: I first went on about two months after we opened. It was planned, so there was a lot of rehearsal and build-up to it. For weeks, the whole company worked to help me get ready. When the day finally came, I was on stage doing my first scene, and I looked offstage to find the whole company packed in the wings watching me. It was so galvanizing to feel such immense support, and it made my debut a very special experience.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: For those who’ve not seen the Broadway adaptation, rather than have you in a giant Olaf costume, Olaf is presented as a puppet with you dressed in winter wear controlling his movement and providing his voice. I understand you’d never worked with puppetry prior to taking on this role. What was your rehearsal period like prior to taking on the role?

JERMEY DAVIS: Since I started as an understudy, I had the advantage of watching and learning from Greg Hildreth, the original Olaf in the Broadway production. Greg is a true artist and comedian, and I was very lucky to be able to have him as a role model. And he was so good with the puppet! The first time I worked with Olaf in rehearsal, I couldn’t believe how hard it was. Greg made it look so easy, but I felt like I was trying to push a pile of rocks around. But like everything else, the more I did it, the easier it got. After a couple of weeks of practice, it started to feel like the puppet and I were dancing. Now, after all this time, we waltz around the stage like we were meant to be together.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Frozen wasn’t your first Broadway show… Heck, that count’s up to 10 Broadway shows if my research serves me right, 2005’s Dirty Rotten Scoundrels marking your Broadway debut. What do you remember most about taking to the Broadway stage for the very first time?

JERMEY DAVIS: The thing I remember most from that night was the curtain call. I went out to take my bow, and as I looked out over the applauding audience, I was thrown back in time to my childhood bedroom where I was having a daydream that one day I would be a Broadway actor. I started crying as I took my bow for Scoundrels because I realized that a childhood dream had come true.

Jeremy Davis as Olaf (photo by Matthew Murphy/courtesy frozenthemusical.com)

JHPENTERTAINMENT: OK, I have to admit something. I’ve never seen Frozen, Frozen II, or even the made-for-tv holiday special, Olaf’s Frozen Adventure! I KNOW, I KNOW!!! But what can I say? I don’t have kids and my nieces were all grown with their own kids by the time the movies came out. That said, I’ve not been living under a rock, so of course I have soaked up some knowledge of the characters and basics of the storyline. All that to ask…what’s it like being part of such an iconic pop culture phenomenon?

JERMEY DAVIS: First of all, WATCH FROZEN! It’s a great film, and it’s not just for kids. I’m a full grown adult (allegedly), and I love it!

As for what it’s like to be a part of this amazing phenomenon, it’s awesome! Every night, I walk out on stage to a crowd that’s already in love with Olaf, and it’s an amazing feeling to be at the center of all that love. It makes the job so easy and fun!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: If you could incorporate one aspect of Olaf’s personality or ideology, what would it be?

JERMEY DAVIS: The thing I love most about Olaf is his perspective on the world. He sees everything that happens, every moment, as an opportunity for joy. He meets a new person, and they’re his best friend. He walks into a new place, and he sees it as a theme park. He falls to pieces, and he rolls all his parts on the ground in glee. After all this time playing Olaf, his outlook has started to become part of my real life perspective, and I can’t really put into words how much better it’s made my life to look at the world in that way.

RAPID FIRE Q&A WITH FROZEN’s KRISTOFF, NICHOLAS EDWARDS

JHPENTERTAINMENT: I admitted when I chatted with your Frozen co-star, Jeremy Davis earlier that I’ve never seen any of the Frozen universe of movies, tv specials or short films. So, for the uninitiated, who is Kristoff and how much fun are you having playing him?

NICHOLAS EDWARDS: Kristoff is a local Arendellian ice harvester mountain man who alongside his best friend Sven (who happens to be a reindeer), gets swept up in this majestic quest to help princess Anna climb the North Mountain and save Arendelle from the eternal winter brought on by the ice queen Elsa! I am having the time of my life! I get to help save Arendelle 8x a week!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: For the stage version, Kristoff’s role has been amped up a bit, including being featured in a few new musical numbers. Do you have a favorite musical moment in the show, whether it’s one you’re featured in, or one you just enjoy from the wings?

NICHOLAS EDWARDS: I mean Let it Go is truly one of the most magical theatrical moments in a musical ever, but I really love the two sister’s duet I Can’t Lose You. It’s a new song written for the tour and it really helps flesh out the relationship between the two sisters, and of course the song itself is just thrilling! The vocals are insane!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Like Jeremy you also come to the tour after having appeared in the Broadway production. With a National Tour, you’re performing on a different stage each week. To that end, I’m curious how much rehearsal or run-though you all get in each city, or do you simply adapt to each venue as you go?

NICHOLAS EDWARDS: Each city we do a sound check and quick spacing rehearsal that lasts around 3 hours the day of the first show. Outside of that we do a few lift and fight calls as a check in throughout the week, but yes- we adapt and stay on our toes as learn the ins and outs of each venue. Safety first!

Nicholas Edwards as Kristoff @nickedwardsnyc Instagram

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Between your time with Frozen on Broadway and the current National Tour, you also appeared on Broadway in & Juliet as Lord Capulet and Sly. Have your found any similarities between these characters?

NICHOLAS EDWARDS: Definitely not! Lord Capulet is a powerful father figure who sentences his daughter to life in a nunnery- Kristoff would never do that!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: I like to end my interviews by asking a variation of the following…What do you hope audiences come away remembering long after seeing Frozen?

NICHOLAS EDWARDS: A lot of families who come to see Disney shows are experiencing their first Broadway musical- I can only hope that this sparks something inside them to continue to want to come back and experience more of the magic that live theatre brings to audiences.

—————

Disney’s Frozen: The Broadway Musical comes to TPAC’s Jackson Hall with the following performance schedule: Tuesday-Sunday, May 7-12 and Tuesday thru Saturday, May 14-18. Tuesday-Saturday evening performances begin at 7:30p.m. with Saturday matinee’s at 2p.m. and Sunday performances at 1p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Tickets range in price from $53 to $198. CLICK HERE to purchase tickets or for more information. Follow Frozen on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and TikTok. Or check out their official Frozen On Tour Site.

Not in Nashville? Not to worry. As the tour continues, Frozen: The Broadway Musical is headed to Majestic Theatre in San Antonio, TX May 22-June 2, Austin, TX’s Bass Concert Hall at University of Texas at APAC June 5-16, Buell Theatre in Denver, CO June 19-July 3, Vancouver, BC’s Queen Elizabeth Theatre July 9-July 21, First Interstate Center for the Arts in Spokane, WA July 24-August 4, Boise, ID’s Morrison Center for the Performing Arts August 7-18 and San Jose Center for the Performing Arts in San Jose, CA August 21-September 1 with more dates expected to be added soon as the tour continues.

Interested in coverage for your latest entertaining endeavor? Click the contact page and drop me a note. You can also follow JHP Entertainment on Instagram and Facebook. In the meantime, #GoSeeTheShow!

Rapid Fire Q&A with Rainey Trevino, Stefanie Londino, Charlotte Woertler and Christopher Swan from National Tour of ‘Annie’; Limited Engagement at TPAC March 27-30

by

March 27 is World Theatre Day and I can’t think of any better way to celebrate than chatting with members of the cast and crew of the current National Tour of Annie, one of theatre’s most beloved and enduring musicals. As the company readied for their March 27-30 Music City tour stop at TPAC‘s Jackson Hall, I recently had a chance to pose a few questions to members of the company including: Rainey Trevino, who stars as Annie, Stefanie Londino, the show’s deliciously villainous Miss Hannigan, Sandy’s handler, Charlotte Woertler and Christopher Swan, who plays Oliver Warbucks for the latest installment of my recurring interview feature, Rapid Fire 20Q.
—————

RAPID FIRE Q&A WITH ANNIE NATIONAL TOUR CAST AND CREW

RAPID FIRE WITH ANNIE STAR, RAINEY TREVINO

JHPENTERTAINMENT: You’ve been with the current tour since it began in the fall of 2023. How did you find out you would be playing the title role in Annie?

RAINEY TREVINO: The audition process was fairly long. I sent an audition tape in March 2023 and was called to an in-person callback in NYC in the middle of June. A couple of days later I was visiting family in Washington State and my manager called to tell me that I had booked the title role. That was the best moment of my life and I think I was in shock. This has been a dream of mine as long as I can remember. I had the summer off to get everything in order like switching to homeschooling, hanging out with and saying goodbye to friends and my younger sister, and I even had to get my braces removed after only having them on for four months. Then on Labor Day we started a month of rehearsals before hitting the road.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: I love that the current National Tour of Annie is being directed by Jenn Thompson, who at age ten, appeared as Pepper in the original Broadway production of Annie. During rehearsals, did Jenn tell you and the other young actors anything about her experience with the show back then? AND…did she offer any advice on doing the work, but enjoying yourselves in the process?

RAINEY TREVINO: Jenn is such an amazing director and she has a unique perspective on the show having worked with Martin Charnin, lyricists and the original director of Annie! She shared a lot of insights and advice with the entire cast and a lot of the history of the show and history of the time period that Annie is set. She emphasized the significance of hard work and dedication while also encouraging us to have fun and find joy in the work.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Speaking of the original Broadway production, as your time with the tour began, you received a video message from Andrea McArdle, who originated the role of Annie on Broadway back in 1977, How cool was that?

RAINEY TREVINO: The message from Andrea McArdle had me star-struck. I have listened to her Broadway version of the Annie soundtrack a million times and it was crazy that she was talking to me! I still watch the video every week when we sit in a new city to get ready to play this iconic character.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As Annie you share the stage with several other young actors who play Annie’s pals and fellow orphans. I’d imagine you’ve all become very close, celebrating birthdays on the road and exploring cities together when there’s an off-day. Are you enjoying getting to know your fellow young cast members?

RAINEY TREVINO: The other girls on this tour are my best friends and I can’t imagine what this tour would be like without them. We are like one big family. We do almost everything together. We are so close in age 10 and 11 and we are doing this unique thing of traveling the U.S. playing in over 50 cities for more than 200 performances this year, and being with other kids who have similar experiences makes this crazy life seem more normal, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Not only do you share the stage with several young actors, you also share several scenes with Seamus and Kevin, the two pups who alternate in the role of Sandy. I’d imagine they each have their own personalities. What’s your favorite thing about getting to work with the two of them.

RAINEY TREVINO: Working with the two dogs that play Sandy is a dream come true. I am an animal lover and have three dogs and so many other animals at home. Seamus and Kevin are the most professional actors on the stage and they do have very different personalities. You might even be able to see some of those differences on stage if you come to the show on different nights as they each have a slightly different take on their version of Sandy. I love that I get to rehearse their scenes when I first arrive at the theatre and get to cuddle and play with them. I have some moderately quick changes and hair fixes where I get to have bonding moments in the wings with them before heading back on stage. I really love this part of the job.

RAPID FIRE WITH ANNIE’s SANDY BY WAY OF TRAINER, CHARLOTTE WOERTLER

JHPENTERTAINMENT: First off, thanks, Charlotte for interpreting Seamus and Kevin’s answers. I understand this is your first national tour, after more than two decades of training animals for the stage. When did you first know this was the career for you and how did you yourself ‘train’ for this gig?

CHARLOTTE WOERTLER: I knew I wanted to be an animal trainer when I was about 8yrs old. I grew up in Los Angeles going to live tappings of tv shows and was enthralled by the incredible animals on I’d see on set. They always connect so strongly with the audience. To prepare for Annie I familiarized myself with the show both from an audience and backstage perspective so that I could begin breaking down the behaviors that would be necessary to deliver each scene. Next it was about acclimating both myself and our wonderful dogs to the sights and sounds of a live theater environment. 

 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Charlotte, what are some of the challenges working with Seamus and Kevin on tour as opposed to being on a movie or TV set or at one venue for a stage show?

CHARLOTTE WOERTLER: Tour is an exciting new challenge! Both Seamus and Kevin have been so adaptive and assured in navigating this new chapter. The biggest difference is how we’re able to communicate with the dogs as trainers. In a live theater setting you don’t want to see or hear the trainer cueing the dogs so we’ve had to be creative in developing new subtle ways to work with them. We also spend lots of quality time with the actresses who play Annie. This helps to foster a strong relationship between them and allows them to step into the role of “trainer” while onstage with the dogs. They make a great team!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Seamus is a Wheaten Terrier mix, while Kevin is a labradoodle. Aside from breed, what’s another distinct difference between these two dog stars?

CHARLOTTE WOERTLER: They each definitely have their own personality. Kevin is more of the class clown and loves to play ball while Seamus is the consummate professional and his favorite game is tug-o-war. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Are there particular scenes that Seamus and Kevin each seem to enjoy performing in more than others?

CHARLOTTE WOERTLER: They both really look forward to taking their bows. The whole cast has a great relationship with the dogs and they get so excited to run out on stage with all their friends. Waiting in the wings they’ll see Annie coming down the stairs for her bow and the dogs simply light up with excitement and can’t wait to get out there and soak it all in. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What’s your favorite aspect of life on tour with Annie?

CHARLOTTE WOERTLER: Meeting so many kind people and getting to experience so many new places has been an absolute treat. The dogs and I will go explore local sights and everyone always loves meeting Sandy.

RAPID FIRE WITH ANNIE’s MISS HANNIGAN, STEFANIE LONDINO

JHPENTERTAINMENT: You are back as Miss Hannigan after having toured with the show during its 2022 season. This time around you’ve got Rainey as Annie. How much fun are you having being back in the role and back on tour?

STEFANIE LONDINO: Yes, it’s my pleasure to be back with a whole new batch of chickens in the orphanage. I’m honored to step back into those snakeskin pumps for a second season of Annie!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Researching to chat with you, I discovered that in addition to your work in theatre, you’re also a personal trainer. While I’d imagine the show itself is quite the workout, do you try to work in a workout during your downtime?

STEFANIE LONDINO: Yes, definitely. Workouts are a regular part of staying healthy on the road— I’m so glad for my training and time as a CPT, for all it brought into my life and all I was able to share with my clients.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Vaudeville comedian W.C. Fields famously said ‘never work with children or animals’, yet here you are…I won’t ask the worst, but what’s the best part of working with the young actresses who play the orphans and the dogs who play Sandy?

STEFANIE LONDINO: Well I don’t know about Mr. Fields, but kids and dogs are some of the best coworkers I’ve ever had. They bring an incredible authenticity and an infectiously joyfulness to our tour family. I’m so grateful for the pups and my chickens every day!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: I think it’s safe to say audiences have a love/hate relationship with Miss Hannigan. She’s just so terrible, but it’s terribly fun to watch her. Over the years, she’s been played on stage and screen by everyone from Dorothy Loudon, Nell Carter and Jane Lynch to Carol Burnett, Kathy Bates and Cameron Diaz. How are you putting your on spin on such an enjoyably wicked character?

STEFANIE LONDINO: Oh, she’s the best. It’s an honor to stand in this line of legends and give new life to such an iconic character. I knew from the beginning that I wanted to play her real, a human, not a caricature. Her struggle is real, her rage comes from that pain. And the comedy hits harder for that balance, the dark justifying the light. It’s been humbling to have the response be that she’s deeply relatable.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Among your adult co-stars are Christopher Swan as Oliver Warbucks, Julia Nicole Hunter as Grace Farrell, Jeffrey T. Kelly as Rooster Hannigan and Samantha Stevens as Lily St. Regis. Using one word for each, describe your co-stars. 

STEFANIE LONDINO: That’s an impossible distillation! All I can say is that I’m honored to share the stage and the road with them. I learn from them each every day. Tour life has made us family.

RAPID FIRE WITH CHRISTOPHER SWAN, OLIVER WARBUCKS IN ANNIE

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Just prior to chatting with you, I had the chance to pose a few questions to your Annie co-star, Stefanie Londino. Both you and Stefanie are on your second season of the Annie tour, so I’ll start by asking you a similar question to one I asked Stefanie. What is it about Warbucks that prompted you to come back for another National Tour? AND…how much fun are you having with Stefanie back as well?

CHRISTOPHER SWAN: Simply…it’s a great job. Singing, dancing, acting…Warbucks has it all. And as you get older in this business, you don’t get as many opportunities to stretch ALL your skills in one role like that.  And a chance to spend this much time with a character is rare. Three months in and you suddenly have a new thought or a take on moment, and that would never happen on a three week regional contract. And having a lot of principles return has really strengthened the frame of the show; given us confidence that we know it so well that we can just be in the moment as real people. Steph and I have shared a wish that Warbucks and Hannigan had more stage time together. We pretty much have separate shows. But I enjoying hearing her performance every night as I’m getting ready in the dressing room. She brings such life to this show. Really embraces this role and the audience and they absolutely love her. Glad she’s back.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: On the subject of previous roles…I gotta ask…how was it sharing the stage with Nina West during the Hairspray 20th Anniversary Tour?

CHRISTOPHER SWAN: A highlight of my touring life. Nina…Andrew Levitt in real life..is truly a magical being. I hadn’t followed Drag Race before Hairspray and was a little nervous about working opposite a popular drag queen in their first big touring role. How do you address them? Will they be demanding? But Andrew was the sweetest. Kind, humble and nervous.  He was so thrilled and honored to be playing Edna and nobody in the cast was more committed to working hard and doing their best than he was. He LOVED performing the show. We had so much fun together doing the love duet, You’re Timeless to Me; Andrew’s joy and energy leapt off the stage every night. Nina/Andrew are the real deal and I’m honored to call them a friend.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Annie debuted as a comic strip in 1924…What’s it like to think you’re part of an American institution that’s celebrating its 100th anniversary this year?

CHRISTOPHER SWAN: Well, needless to say it’s an honor. The musical will be celebrating it’s 50th anniversary next year and love for the show is as strong as ever. I can’t think of any musical from that era that has had this kind of staying power. But you feel it every night on the road. And I’m so happy that I’m part of it.  We met Annie’s composer Charles Strouse when he saw the show in New Haven, and that really brought it all home for me. The time, the talent, the history behind this show is immeasurable.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Obviously Warbucks has chanced a bit over the last 100 years. For one, I’ve noticed he’s no longer referred to as Daddy Warbucks, but rather, simply Warbucks. On a more personal note, are there aspects of your portrayal of Warbucks that have morphed or changed since you first stepped into the role?

CHRISTOPHER SWAN: Well, he has to earn the title of “Daddy” Warbucks, as he does over the course of the show. But when we meet him he is Oliver Warbucks, dissatisfied multi-millionaire. His journey through the show is very moving for me. He would never have predicted what ends up happening to him or how it would make him feel. Annie has a strong sense of self from the very beginning, but Warbucks changes. He doesn’t really know who he is until he meets Annie. And working on this role hasn’t actually been a straight, steady line. It’s strangely cyclical. Some weeks he’s the gruff business man who fights against his own feelings and then there’s some weeks where I find he’s more eager to change but doesn’t know how. It’s probably only a subtle difference that may not be noticed by most, but for me it helps keep my performance fresh.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What theme, idea or sentiment seen within Annie do you hope audiences reflect on long after seeing the show?

CHRISTOPHER SWAN: There’s so many wonderful elements to Annie. I would say, pick your favorite. Family, openness, optimism, perseverance, love. And cooperation. Whether it’s political cooperation in FDR and Warbucks working together, or Warbucks’ staff all pitching in to help Annie. Look for the helpers in Annie; they’re there.

—————

The National Tour of Annie begins its Nashville tour dates on Wednesday, March 27 with a 7:30p.m. curtain at TPAC’s Jackson Hall and continues with 7:30p.m. performances Thursday, Friday and Saturday. March 28-30. On Saturday, March 30, there’s also a 2p.m. matinee. Tickets for Annie at TPAC begin at $50.90. CLICK HERE to purchase tickets.

For more information on Annie, or to catch the show in another city during the tour, CLICK HERE. Upcoming tour stops include: Pensacola, FL, Orange, TX, New Orleans, LA, Sacramento, CA, Bozeman, MT, Casper, WY and more. You can also follow the tour on their official socials: Instagram, X and Facebook.

Following Annie, TPAC plays host to a full slate of entertainment for the whole family including Nashville Opera’s upcoming performance of The Magic Flute, Nashville Repertory Theatre’s The Color Purple and Nashville Ballet’s Romeo and Juliet. TPAC will also serve as the venue for a number of acts hitting Music City as part of Nashville Comedy Festival. April will also see TPAC hosting three Arts Adventure youth workshops: one featuring Moana (for ages 7-12), one featuring Beetlejuice (ages 13-17) and the third, an all ages (9-17) titled Let’s Dance, featuring choreography from shows in this season’s Broadway at TPAC series. Speaking of Broadway at TPAC, next up is Disney’s Frozen, taking to the stage at Jackson Hall May 7-18. For further details on these and more entertainment headed to TPAC, CLICK HERE or follow TPAC on Instagram, X, YouTube and Facebook.

As always, if you wanna follow JHPEntertainment to find out who I’m chatting with for my next Rapid Fire Q&A, or for my take on the latest local and national theatre, music and movie offerings, find us at JHPEntertainment on Facebook, JHPEntertainment on Instagram  and JHPEntertainment on Twitter.

Got an event or show we should know about, drop us a line at the Contact tab. Till then, #GoSeeTheShow!

Rapid Fire 20Q with Cast and Creatives of ‘Mrs. Krishnan’s Party’; coming to TPAC March 6-9

by

From Wednesday, March 6 thru Friday, March 9, Nashville theatre audiences are invited to a party like no other when the National Tour of Mrs. Krishnan’s Party comes to TPAC, transforming the Johnson Theatre into the backroom of Zina Krishnan’s dairy/convenience store, where we find her tenant, James, planning a party even though his landlady isn’t too keen on the idea.

Directed by Justin Lewis, who also co-wrote the play alongside Jacob Rajan, founding members of New Zealand’s hugely popular Indian Ink Theatre Company, the show stars Kalyani Nagarajan and Justin Te Honihana Pokaihau Rogers. Mrs. Krishnan’s Party is an immersive night of theatre likely unlike anything audiences have experienced as the intimate setting of venues like the Johnson Theatre foster the illusion that you’re not just watching the action unfold, but you are a guest at Mrs. Krishnan’s Party yourself.

Just last week, I had the opportunity to pose a few questions to the cast and creators for my latest Rapid Fire 20Q. What follow are those conversations:

——————–

RAPID FIRE 20Q WITH CAST AND CREATIVES OF MRS. KRISHNAN’S PARTY

RAPID FIRE WITH MRS. KRISHNAN’S PARTY CO-WRITER, JACOB RAJAN

JHPENTERTAINMENT: In researching to chat with you and other creatives from Mrs. Krishnan’s Party, I learned that this show is a sequel of sorts to your hugely successful 1997 production, Krishnan’s Dairy. What was it about that show and it’s huge following that sparked the idea of expanding the Krishnan Universe to Mrs. Krishnan’s Party?

JACOB RAJAN:  When you live with a character for 25 years, as we have with Zina Krishnan, it seems such a shame to throw her away. And all it takes is a simple question to unlock infinite possibilities: “I wonder what Zina’s up to now?”

JHPENTERTAINMENT: I understand the ‘party’ in Mrs. Krishnan’s Party refers to Onam. What is it about this celebration that lends itself to the story you’re telling?

JACOB RAJAN: Onam is a harvest festival from Kerala in South India – where I’m originally from.  Inherent to harvest is the idea of death and rebirth.  In our story we have characters dealing with major life change. Any change in your life requires you to allow things to die in order for something new to emerge. It’s a hard thing to do – as Mrs. Krishnan will tell you.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: You created this show alongside your frequent collaborator, Justin Lewis, who also serves as the show’s director as well as your cofounder at India Ink Theatre Company. What’s the secret to your long partnership?

JACOB RAJAN: We have very complimentary skill sets. Justin is a very deep thinker, fantastic at structure (he could’ve been an architect) as well as a brilliant artistic director with a great head for business. I’m extremely shallow and will find humour in anything. As the son of Indian immigrants I was supposed to be a doctor so I bring a sort of childlike wonder to the fact that I’m even allowed to do this. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Food is such an integral part of every culture, but some might argue, even more so for those of East Asian descent. To that end, during the course of the play, food is actually prepared and shared with the audience. How important to you was including that aspect of the show?

JACOB RAJAN: The food is a core aspect to both the story and the experience for the audience. There’s something so beautifully sensuous about onions frying and rice on the boil. A nightmare for the actors to deal with but beautiful nonetheless.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: I’m about to chat with you two cast members and your co-writer/director. Using only one word, describe each of them.

JACOB RAJAN: Kalyani Nagarajan: Mercurial    Justin Rogers:  Joyous       

Justin Lewis: Visionary

RAPID FIRE WITH MRS. KRISHNAN’s PARTY‘s ZINA KRISHNAN, KALYANI NAGARAJAN 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What can you tell me about Mrs. Krishnan, the role you play in Mrs. Krishnan’s Party?

KALYANI NAGARAJAN: She is such a joy to play. Mrs K has been running her own convenience store for over 20 years; she is a really hard-working, loving South Indian Matriarch who is no-nonsense but is in a moment of flux where she is looking back at her life and releasing it may be time for a change. She is the perfect challenge against James, who we see as a free spirit and takes life much less seriously. The beauty of Mrs K, and playing her, is that she is a strong immigrant woman who is in charge in her domain; often, we see these characters in lower status or as side characters, but in this story, she is the boss and that is just so empowering. She is soft, and she loves love and ultimately, that is what this story is about. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: For those not familiar, how would you describe Mrs. Krishnan’s Party?

KALYANI NAGARAJAN: An extravaganza of the senses! It’s a story about change between the generations; when we ask ourselves, do we stick with the life we live, or do we go into the discomfort and change for the better? It is a totally immersive piece of theatre, where your sense of touch, smell, and taste are all inspired. I’m biased but I think this show is absolute magic on stage. It’s raw, and it truly is the definition of live theatre. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Aside from the audience, that becomes characters in the show through the show’s unique immersive staging, you share the stage with Justin Rogers. What do you enjoy most about Justin as a scene partner?

KALYANI NAGARAJAN: Nothing. Ha! No, of course not – it is an honour to act alongside someone I have known for so long! I went to drama school with Justin but we weren’t friends back then ha! I think Justin brings such a sense of joy and play and freedom to how he acts, and there is a real connection when we play together; he is one of my favourite people to act with because there is no sense of upstaging one another, we work in a beautiful harmony and want to see the other one win! 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: In addition to your stage career, you’re also known for your role in the tv series Raised by Refugees where you played the Mom of a young South Asian boy whose parents immigrated to New Zealand. You yourself share a bit of a similar backstory, in that your parents immigrated to New Zealand, right?

KALYANI NAGARAJAN: Ha Yes! My parents immigrated, and those characters had to seek refuge, which is a totally different scenario, but I guess in terms of wanting to find belonging and a place to call home, there are similarities. My parents have been in New Zealand for 40 years now, and I was born and raised here, and it comes with it’s trials and tribulations. Recently, I think my parents have been feeling moments of regret for taking us out of our home country because there a things you lose culturally. that first-generation verses immigrant storyline is so tumultuous but also beautiful – I’m actually writing a film and a TV show about it because these stories need to be told! 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: On the subject of your acting career, you studied at Toi Whakaari: NZ Drama School. Were you there by chance during Dame Miranda Harcourt’s time as Head of the Acting Department?

KALYANI NAGARAJAN: We were lucky enough to have her for maybe about two weeks! I think her acting methodology is one of the greats, and I still use her technique to this day. I may have even stolen a few things when I teach my students, hehe! Sorry! But I always give Miranda credit!  A lesson I carry with me from Toi is that this career is not a solo career, you need people, you need your artistic family to keep you going, to keep you inspired, to work along side. 

RAPID FIRE WITH MRS. KRISHNAN’s PARTY’s JAMES, JUSTIN TE HONIHANI POKAIHAU ROGERS

JHPENTERTAINMENT: I just chatted with your Mrs. Krishnan’s Party costar, Kalyani Nagarajan, so I’ll start by asking…what’s your favorite aspect of sharing the stage with her?

JUSTIN TE HONIHANA POKAIHAU ROGERS: Kal and I trained together at the same drama school- I still remember meeting her for the first time during our audition weekend. That was 12 years ago now and at the time I couldn’t have imagined we’d be travelling the world together with such a fun show! I just love how life is like that, you never know the magnitude of such little moments. Kal is exceptionally talented and I’m constantly learning from her, it’s a treat to work with someone you once studied with because you keep that student mind set and helps us constantly grow.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Now, on to your role in the show…who is James to you?

JUSTIN TE HONIHANA POKAIHAU ROGERS: James is a connector. He loves people, he loves fun, he wants everyone to have a great time. He’s easily distracted because he’s always looking for the spark out there! That also means he can miss some important things… He’s afraid of failure and struggles with self esteem, but these are things he faces during the course of the show and for that reason I think James is a hero.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: From what I understand, you’ve been with the show since its 2019 New Zealand premiere. How did you hear of the show and what made you want to audition?

JUSTIN TE HONIHANA POKAIHAU ROGERS: Kal got me the audition! It was developed from a solo show she created at drama school, they put a casting call out and I was grateful that Kal put me forward.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: In preparing to chat with you, I discovered that just prior to Mrs. Krishnan’s Party, you starred in Shortland Street: The Musical a stage parody of the beloved long-lasting primetime sudser, Shortland Street. My dear friend Susannah Devereux was one of the stars of the series back in the 90s. You two share an agent in Karen Kay from what I understand. That said, what’s something from your time in the musical that you’ve taken to heart and you think of often?

JUSTIN TE HONIHANA POKAIHAU ROGERS: That show was based on the 90’s cast, so your friend’s character may have featured! Also shout out to my agent, Karen Kay Management, incredible team and I love them. Yes! That show was so silly and it lovingly poked fun at the soap opera- but my biggest learning in that was that we can’t just make fun of a thing or comment on a story or character. All our work has to be rooted in truth. It can be funny, sure, but at its core we must take all our work seriously. So in the show I had to deliver a toy baby during a musical number and it was VERY silly- but you can’t perform it that way. You really have to deliver that baby! That lesson has stuck with me in all my work since. Don’t play at being a funny actor pretending to deliver a baby to get a laugh. You really have to deliver the baby! And it might get a laugh, but that’s none of my business!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As mentioned earlier, Mrs. Krishnan’s Party premiered in New Zealand, and is now enjoying a North American Tour. What’s been your favorite aspect of life on the road thus far?

JUSTIN TE HONIHANA POKAIHAU ROGERS: People! Meeting people on the road is the best. There’s a great line in one of my favourite films Before Sunrise where the character says the meaning of life lies in the little interactions. The space between two strangers when they smile at each other or chat briefly. Most of the people we meet on the road we’ll never see again in our lives. Yet we still whole heartedly connect. Or just buy coffee from them. But being with that person, smiling or laughing together for a second suddenly becomes deeply profound when you reflect on the fact that you won’t see them again. That tiny interaction suddenly becomes the most important moment in the universe. And I get to have those interactions over and over again and that is awesome.

RAPID FIRE WITH MRS. KRISHNAN’s PARTY’s CO-WRITER/DIRECTOR, JUSTIN LEWIS

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Earlier, I chatted with your co-writer and frequent collaborator, Jacob Rajan. So, let’s start our conversation with me asking you your take on the first question I asked him…What was it about that show and it’s huge following that sparked the idea of expanding the Krishnan Universe to Mrs. Krishnan’s Party?

JUSTIN LEWIS: It was such an exciting and beautiful idea to pick up the life of one of the heroes of that show 20 years later.  Zina Krishnan was a character we knew well as a young woman, to now imagine her as middle aged felt rich. It was probably no accident that this was the same journey we’d gone through ourselves.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: While there’s a basic through-line in the plot and set dialogue to get us there, I’d imagine incorporating the live audience in such an immersive way might lead to potential derailment from time to time. As the show’s director, how do you guide your actors to stay on task?

JUSTIN LEWIS:  There’s an improvisation/storytelling exercise where someone prompts the improvisor to advance the story or extend the moment – go forward or go wider. A great story needs a balance of both,  I ask the performers to tune into this balance when engaging directly with the audience. And there is always a strong structure to rely on – there’s a very tight script and even the improvs with the audience have a structure to them.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Speaking of, what’s the funniest unscripted moment you recall?

JUSTIN LEWIS: There’s a section in the play where Mrs Krishnan gets audiences members to help her open she cans.  It’s hilarious and slightly incredible how many young men don’t know how to use a can opener!   

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Alright now! I feel attacked, but in my defense, I’m a leftie and most can openers are created for right-handed people…but I digress. Back to the show…While your New Zealand audiences now have a quarter-century relationship in the Krishnan world, we stateside audience members are being introduced by way of Mrs. Krishnan’s Party. Are there subtle nods to the original work, Krishnan’s Dairy that we might be missing?

JUSTIN LEWIS: There’s nothing that you will be missing.  We’ve worked carefully to structure things so no prior knowledge is required.  The earlier show gives us as writers a  rich backstory to mine but as with any good drama the only backstory that makes it in is that which is relevant to the current action.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What do you hope audiences remember of their time at Mrs. Krishnan’s Party?

JUSTIN LEWIS: That they’ll have had fun, experienced joy, connection and community – and some really tasty food!

——————–

For the Music City leg of the tour, Mrs. Krishnan’s Party will debut in Nashville at the Johnson Theatre at TPAC with 7:30p.m. performances on Wednesday and Thursday, March 6 & 7. Mrs. Krishnan’s Party will continue its Nashville run over the weekend with an 8p.m. curtain on Friday, March 8, a 2p.m. matinee on Saturday, March 9 and a final area performance at 8p.m. on the evening of March 9. CLICK HERE for tickets or more information.

Following the Nashville dates, Mrs. Krishnan’s Party will continue its North American Tour with shows in Toronto, Canada at TO LIVE March 13-24, in Boston, Massachusetts at Emerson College‘s Paramount Center‘s Liebergott Black Box Theatre March 27-April 7 and Oregon Statue University’s PRAx in Corvallis, Oregon April 11-14. Click any of the above hyperlinks for tickets to those specific performances. You can also follow Mrs. Krishnan’s Party and all the other shows from Indian Ink Theatre Company by checking them out HERE. , or following them on Facebook, Instagram and Linkedin.

 

Next up for TPAC, yet another Music City debut as they continue their Broadway at TPAC season with Beetlejuice with performances March 12 thru 17. CLICK HERE for tickets or more info. Be sure to check out TPAC online and on socials by clicking any of the following:  TPAC.org,  TPAC on Instagram,  TPAC on Facebook, TPAC on Twitter and TPAC on YouTube.

As always, if you wanna follow JHPEntertainment to find out who I’m chatting with for my next Rapid Fire Q&A, or for my take on the latest local and national theatre, music and movie offerings, find us at JHPEntertainment on Facebook, JHPEntertainment on Instagram  and JHPEntertainment on Twitter.

Got an event or show we should know about, drop us a line at the Contact tab. Till then, #GoSeeTheShow!