Daniel Kirkley: Love Is Christmas Interview

Photo Credit: Amy ConnerDaniel Kirkley is a classically trained singer-songwriter who moved New York City this past year from Nashville, TN. While in Nashville, he signed with Centricity Records and released two albums with them. The first, Let Love Win, yielded a chart topping hit, My New Dawn, at AC radio. Since releasing his first album, Daniel has spent the last seven years touring the country performing solo shows in a variety of venues in support of his other album releases (As Tomorrow Comes & Where Healing Starts).

Daniel Kirkley Singing at The Salvation Army's Gathering of Angels Benefit ConcertDaniel Kirkley in Bobby Cronin's "Daybreak"2012 marked a new beginning for Daniel as he set out on pursuing opportunities in the world of musical theater. This past summer, he made his acting debut in Bobby Cronin's award winning musical, Daybreak. Shortly after the completion of that musical's run, Daniel began work on his Christmas album, Love Is Christmas. As part of his Christmas tour, he will make his New York City debut on December 12th under the musical direction of William Demaniow. Come on down to Sidewalk Cafe (94 Avenue A, New York's East Village) to celebrate the release of his Christmas album, "Love Is Christmas" and hear Daniel's stellar voice as he sings selections from his CD and spreads some holiday cheer. Showtimes are 8pm and 10pm. Click here for tickets: 8pm, 10pm.

Click here to purchase "Love Is Christmas." For more on Daniel be sure to visit http://www.danielkirkley.com and follow him on Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, or iTunes!

1. Who or what inspired you to become a singer? I don't know if there was an actual person or event that really every inspired me to start down this path. I've been singing for as long as I can remember; it's always been something that I loved. Growing up, my first exposure to performing was in the church; so that's been a very real influence over the course of my life. I've really just tried to focus on the areas I felt I was blessed to have some talent & walk through the doors that naturally opened because of them.

2. Who haven't you worked with that you would like to? One day, I would love to work with David Foster. I've always been such a fan of his songwriting and production style.

3. You just released your new album "Love Is Christmas." What made you want to make a Christmas album? Christmas is (and will always be) my favorite time of year. To me, it brings out the best in people; love, generosity, kindness…plus, to me, it's all about family. I had wanted to record a Christmas album for several years but it just wasn't the right time. Several months back, I looked at my schedule and realized I had the time to really focus on what I wanted to record, how I wanted to approach it & more importantly, who I wanted to work with it on.

4. How did you decide which holiday songs you wanted to put on the CD? Honestly, that was the most difficult part of the entire process. I sat down and went through my favorite Christmas songs and at the end of the day had a list of a little over 35 songs. I wanted to combine my love for the sacred tunes as well as the Christmas classics I grew up on. Obviously, the list was WAY too long for any single album so my producer, Jamey Ray, and I sat down and began narrowing them down to the eleven tracks that makes up the album. To me, the outcome was exactly what I set out to do from day one.

5. Rachel Potter and Marty Thomas make a guest appearance on your album. What made you want to record with them and how did you decide which song you wanted to record together? I have such respect for both Rachel & Marty & I'm so thankful to have them as part of this project. In fact, they were among the first people I met years ago on my first trip to New York. Not only are their voices fantastic, but their work ethic is something that has driven me personally since moving here last December. Now in regards to the song itself; I've been aware of it for many years & it's always been a favorite of mine. It was originally recorded by the group Avalon & was written by my friends Joel Lindsey & Wayne Haun. Before moving to New York, I lived in Nashville and worked for Sony/BMG in their Creative Publishing department. Joel and Wayne were both writers signed there & this song is part of that catalog. In fact, Joel was one of the very first people I co-wrote with and in many ways has become a mentor of mine. After deciding to record "Light A Candle", the question then became how to approach it; whether to record it as a solo song or keep the feel of the original recording as a group. Once that decision was made, Rachel & Marty were the first two people that came to mind. Jamey, my producer, is close friends with them both & that's ultimately how that connection was made.

6. You are going to be performing 2 shows at the Sidewalk Cafe on December 12 to help promote "Love is Christmas." What excites you about performing at the Sidewalk Cafe? What does this venue offer that another venue does not? Well obviously, I'm excited about this being my first solo show here in the city. I had several goals that I wanted to accomplish when I moved here last year; one of them was to do a concert. These performances will literally occur three days before the one year anniversary of me signing my lease; so…WHEW…I just made it - hahaha! As far as Sidewalk Cafe goes, it has a wonderful history down in the East Village & they've recently redone their performance space. My shows are part of their new Landmark Wednesdays & I couldn't be happier to be apart.

7. What does it mean to you to be making your NY debut with this concert? It's very exciting for me & something that I've been wanting to do for a while. For the six years prior to moving to New York, while based out of Nashville, I toured full-time as a solo artist performing and promoting my previous three albums. I had never had the chance to play here; so to me, this is a culmination of several years of work. Also, I can't think of a better way to make my NYC debut than with a Christmas concert.

8. What is your favorite part of the creative process in putting an album together? Well I think it all depends on the project. For instance, with my previous release, "Where Healing Starts," I wrote all but two songs on the album. So my favorite process was seeing those songs that started with a pad, pen & rough work tape slowly come together into their final, full produced versions. However, I only wrote one song on "Love Is Christmas," so that aspect was different in this case. For me, when it came to this project, the process of putting my vocals down & hearing them back on these Christmas favorites was the best part.

9. What have you learned about yourself from being a singer? That the longer I work at this craft, how little I actually know & how much more there is to learn. My vocal coach in college told me this, "The moment you feel you no longer have anything to learn, is the moment you cease to be a musician." I've tried to keep that in mind ever since.

Daniel Kirkley singing at a benefit in Mason, OH10. What's the best advice you've ever received? I remember one day chatting with Joel Lindsey (one of the co-writers of "Light A Candle") and I asked him, looking back over his career, what was one of the things he was most thankful for & he said, "I'm thankful for all the people who are better than me that quit before I did." I love that perspective. Ultimately, you can't control how things in the music industry are going to go; things tend to be so subjective. Also, you will meet people everyday that are better singers, musicians, songwriters, actors, dancers, etc…that's just the nature of the world. However, you can control your own drive and determination. I firmly believe what sets someone apart is their confidence in what they do well, working hard to master it & never allow the comparisons to another person/performer get you down.

11. If you could dream about anyone while you sleep, who would it be? It would have to be my niece, Ella. I love being an uncle and that beautiful little girl simply steals my heart every time I see her smile or hear her voice. Being away from her is honestly the most difficult part of living here in the city.

BONUS QUESTIONS:

12. Favorite way to spend your day off? To me, there's nothing better than a day off in my pajamas, a giant pot of coffee & catching up on my DVR or playing a little PS3 - hahaha!!!

13. Favorite way to stay in shape? I love going to the gym…but since moving here, my favorite thing to do is running the loop in Central Park.

14. Boxers or Briefs? One has to keep a little mystery in the world - haha!

15. If you could have any super power, which one would you choose? I'd want to fly.

Wade Dooley: PZAZZ 101 Interview

Photo Credit: Kevin Thomas GarciaWade Dooley is yet another rising performer/writer to keep your eye on! As a performer, some of his favorite credits include: "The Radio City Christmas Spectacular" (Tour); "Scott Alan’s Monday Night New Voices" (NYC), "Forever Plaid," and "Over the Pub" (Saint Michael’s Playhouse) along with regional productions of "Grease," "Thoroughly Modern Millie," "CATS," and "Crazy for You." Also, Wade is the creator and book writer of a new musical, "Sunset City," with lyrics by Brett Teresa and music by Bobby Cronin. Wade is a graduate of Bradley University with a B.S. degree in Business Administration and proud member of Actors’ Equity.  

Wade Dooley as "Mary Shennanbargger", Photo Credit: Kevin Thomas GarciaNow Wade has taken his writing and performing talents to web to create his hilarious Broadway-themed web series "PZAZZ 101," directed by Isaac Klein. Just wrapping up it's second season, "PZAZZ 101" is centered around "Mary Shennanbargger," a former performer turned teacher, who helps Broadway’s best and brightest find their footing on the Great White Way. She knows everything there is to know about entertainment and she’s ready to share the wealth. Pull up a chair, grab a Werther’s and get ready to say "Wow!"

"PZAZZ 101" has new episodes every Wednesday! Tune in at http://www.PZAZZ101.com and follow the show on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube!

For more on Wade be sure to visit http://www.thewadedooley.com

1. Who or what inspired you to become a performer/writer? I have always been performing. I was huge in the family room and the backyard. I like to make people smile, and I love to make people laugh. But, Raul Esparza in the revival of "Company" truly sealed the deal for me. I moved to New York the following summer. I knew I wouldn't be happy doing anything else.

2. Who haven't you worked with that you would like to? Kristin Chenoweth, Elaine Stritch, Chita Rivera....just to name a few.

Wade Dooley as "Mary Shennanbargger", Photo Credit: Kevin Thomas Garcia3. What made you want to create and star in PZAZZ 101? How did you come up with the character of "Mary Shennanbargger"? I grew up watching SNL, MAD TV, Tracy Ullman's "Tracy Take On," etc. I love characters, and I love seeing one person become different people. "Mary" is one of my different people. I was doing a production of CATS about six years ago. While applying makeup, I would start talking in this voice. It slowly became "Mary," a retired performer turned coach that was mad that she hadn't been asked to choreograph the show. I worked on her bit by bit over the years along with other characters, and she always seemed to stick out. Fast forward two years later. I moved to NYC, and I started piecing together a stage show for "Mary." I ended up doing the show at the DC Fringe Festival and with Prospect Theater Company here in the city. Then, I met Isaac Klein, my now director, and we came up with the idea to create the web series "Pzazz 101." We joined the online craze, and we have been trying to spread "Mary's" words of WOW ever since. In the end, we hope that a following for the character and series will help the stage show to get a run in the city or maybe "Mary" could take to the small screen!

4. What do you hope audiences come away with after watching the series? First, I hope people laugh. Second, I hope people recall their time in "class," and they can reminisce a bit. Third, some of "Mary's" lessons actually work.

5. How did you decide which theatre stars you wanted to have on the show? I invited performers that I really enjoy watching onstage. We put offers out to a bunch of different people, and we ended up with a great, fun group. Every person was up for anything, and that's what was so great about it.

Photo Credit: Kevin Thomas Garcia6. What do you enjoy most about writing a web series as opposed to a theatrical show? Well, we don't write the web series, and I do have to write for the stage. Our "Pzazz 101" episodes are improvised. We agree on a premise and then we film for an hour to produce a 5-8 minute video. I love the spontaneity of improvisation. If we had scripted it, it would have been funny, but not as funny as it is because it is truly in the moment.

7. What can you tell us about your upcoming collaboration with Bobby Cronin and Brett Theresa on "Sunset City"? What have you enjoyed most about working with these two talented guys? Well, "Sunset City" will be a very funny musical with a lot of heart. It's about a failing retirement home in Central Illinois (my stomping grounds) and the residents that live there. People aren't writing shows for older actors. Why? I'd much rather hear a 75 year-old tell a story or sing a song compared to a 15 year-old. It's the years of experience and the history that make it more interesting.

First and foremost, they are very fun, and we have a good time. Most of all, I enjoy our spirited debates that never end with someone winning and someone losing. We have debate, the work is better for it, and in the end, we're still friends.

8. What have you learned about yourself from being a performer/writer? I have learned that preparation for me is everything. I used to be the guy that laughed about warming up. I have come to realize how wrong I was. Whether performing a song or a scene, I can only be fully present if I have done the preparation. I'm more confident, uninhibited, and "in" my body.

9. What's the best advice you've ever received? "It's not about you." Whenever I'm upset about an audition, it softens the blow when you realize, most of the time, it's not about you. It's about the costume size or my body type or my height. You can't change those things. Well, you can't change most of those things.

10. If you could dream about anyone while you sleep, who would it be? To be honest, I don't really dream while I sleep. But, when I do, it's usually very odd and scary i.e. trees growing out of my hands, being chased, falling, etc. I should probably talk to someone about that.

BONUS QUESTIONS:

11. Favorite way to spend your day off? I love going to the movies, roaming around the city, and window shopping for things I can't afford...yet.

12. Favorite way to stay in shape? Mark Fisher Fitness! It's not a gym, it's a clubhouse. Fun, friendly, and I feel the burn every single time.

13. Boxers or Briefs? Some things need to remain a surprise.

14. If you could have any super power, which one would you choose? I think I would choose the power to teleport different places instantly. I don't LOVE riding the train.

Julie Reiber: Love Travels Interview

I first met the extremely talented Julie Reiber in 2010 at a reading of Bobby Cronin's "The Beaten Path" (now retitled "W2ML"). Since that time she has been seen in the recent Broadway production of "On A Clear Day You Can See Forever," alongside Harry Connick, Jr., was "Connie Bradshaw" in the World Premiere performance of "Tales of the City" at ACT in San Francisco, sang the music of Jason Sellards (Jake Shears) and John Garden of the Scissor Sisters, starred as "Cathy" in "The Last Five Years" at the Berkshire Theatre Festival, and "Betty Haynes" in the classic "White Christmas" at the Walnut Street Theatre in Philadelphia, PA. Julie just finished up her run in one Broadway's most fun and colorful shows "Priscilla Queen of the Desert" and has released her debut CD "Love Travels."

"Love Travels" is a joyous trip through the musical realms of theater, pop, folk and soul from one of New York's brightest and most compelling voices, supported by a 12 piece band of Broadway veterans. The disc takes advantage of Reiber's considerable Broadway experience by opening with an effervescent take on "I Got Love" from the 1971 musical Purlie. She then offers a majestic reading of "Still Hurting" from one of her favorite stage roles in the Jason Robert Brown musical "The Last Five Years." Her careful interpretation of "Through The Mountain," a selection from Adam Guettel's "Floyd Collins," echoes the score's Americana influences. Of course there is her unique version of Elphaba's anthem "Defying Gravity" from Wicked, a special bonus track on the CD. She performed the song over one hundred times both at the Gershwin Theater on Broadway and with the show's original Los Angeles company, opposite Adam Lambert as "Fiyero."

Julie recording "Love Travels" CDJulie also finds inspiration in some of the 20^th Century's most beloved singer/songwriters. She is able to display her more introspective side – and an appealing folksy charm – on Stevie Wonder's "Knocks Me Off My Feet." Burt Bacharach and Hal David might not recognize their famous 1960s hit "Walk On By," which is recast by Julie as a funky jam, but still retains the song's yearning and naked emotion. James Sampliner’s swirling string arrangements intensifies Julie's vibrant performance of the John Mayer hit "Back To You." Other highlights include her lilting version of Joni Mitchell's "Little Green" and the exciting groove of Chaka Khan's "Stay."

Her three original compositions are no less impressive. "When You're Around" is a dreamy yet introspective love song with an irresistible lyrical quality. "Be My Love," which she wrote for her husband soon after they met, is an eager declaration with a driving rock beat that would fit in on today's Top 40 radio. The sunny "There's A Way" expresses Julie's innately positive attitude with an upbeat and modern sound.

"Love Travels" is arranged and orchestrated by James Sampliner, the Musical Director of "Legally Blonde," "The Wedding Singer," and "Brooklyn" on Broadway – who also serves as co-producer along with Julie. Jack Sharkey serves as Executive Producer.

For more on Julie be sure to visit http://www.juliereiber.com and follow her on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube!

1. We first met in 2010 at a reading of Bobby Cronin's "The Beaten Path" (now retitled "W2ML"). Since that time you have been seen in the recent Broadway production of "On A Clear Day You Can See Forever," alongside Harry Connick, Jr., were "Connie Bradshaw" in the World Premiere performance of "Tales of the City" at ACT in San Francisco, singing the music of Jason Sellards (Jake Shears) and John Garden of the Scissor Sisters, starred as "Cathy" in "The Last Five Years" at the Berkshire Theatre Festival, and "Betty Haynes" in the classic "White Christmas" at the Walnut Street Theatre in Philadelphia, PA. Now you just finished up your run in one Broadway's most fun and colorful shows "Priscilla Queen of the Desert" and you released your debut CD "Love Travels." You've certainly done a lot! What made now the right time for you to release your debut CD "Love Travels"? What did you get from working on your album that you do not get from your theatrical endeavors? Yes. I've been busy and it’s been wonderful. I've had the chance to play a lot of great roles over the past couple years AND I also got engaged and married within that time as well. ;-) So it has most definitely been a very busy time...but all amazing stuff!

Julie having fun during the recording of "Love Travels" CDThe process of the album was slow and steady. I had been working on it slowly over a course of about two years before we got into the studio. And even our studio time ended up being divided because of other jobs interfering. My musical director James Sampliner and I were very busy with other projects, so it was about fitting in sessions to work when we could. Our schedules took us out of town and kept us really busy, so although I was eager to finish it all and get it in my hands, I had to trust the process and not rush it. Pushing timelines and forcing things wouldn't allow me to be thoughtful and really make it my own and exactly how I wanted it. So I tried to just relax into the process and take my time knowing that when it was done the time would be right.

Working on the album was such a personal endeavor. It's a unique opportunity to express myself in a different way then I get to experience when I'm playing roles in shows. Although I love playing roles and stepping into someone else’s shoes, it's a very different experience to put yourself out there as just you. And musically this was an opportunity for me to show who I truly am as an artist and what kind of music I love to sing. This album is a full expression of me which is really special to me. It's a full experience of who I am, what I stand for and the kind of music and singing I love to do.

2. How did you come up with the title and song selection for "Love Travels"? When picking the tunes for the set list I realized that everything I was looking at was related to love in some way. Not just the heartbreak, but the joys, the yearning, giving, receiving....all the different spaces and forms and stories of love. The album concept was always to be an old school album that could be listened to from beginning to end and take you on a journey. All the tunes moving from one to another in regards to tune, but also story, so it can take you on a ride. Hence, the "Love Travels" idea for a title came from that concept.

3. You have contributed three original songs to your debut CD "Love Travels." Out of all the songs you have written, why did you choose these three to debut? I am a fairly new songwriter and my guitar skills are pretty basic. I was actually terrified to put any originals on the album at all, but I got enough encouragement from friends that I went for it. And I'm really glad I did. I've only written about 11 tunes in my life so there wasn't a ton to choose from really. And it was also pretty clear which ones had potential and which didn't....so I just tried to go with my gut about which ones I felt most confident about and my favorites.

4. What was your favorite part of the creative process in putting the album together? This one is tough because I loved so much of it. The beginning process with James and I in his apartment was awesome! We would throw ideas around and make it up as we went along. I'd find myself jumping around with excitement at the prospect of an arrangement. It was such an amazing, creative part of the process. And I'd also have to say the studio. I had such a great crew of guys and recording at Avatar was such a tremendous feeling. And it didn't hurt when Roberta Flack stopped by who was recording next door either. ;-)

Julie as "Marion" in "Priscilla Queen of the Desert"5. You just finished up your run in "Priscilla Queen of the Desert" on June 24. What was the best part about being part of this terrific show? It really was a blast to do this show! It was such a blessing how it fell in my lap. The group of actors and crew on this show were so terrific and how can you not have a great time going to work when you're singing disco music all night and talking with an Aussie accent. The show flew by because we were so busy running around and it was such a great feeling to have your audience EVERY night....no matter how big or small the crowd....singing along, jumping to their feet at the end smiling ear to ear. It was a wonderful feel good show. Broadway is gonna miss it.

6. Who haven't you worked with that you would like to? The list of actors I admire and would love to work with is many. If I could do a scene with Philip Seymour Hoffman I'm sure I would learn a lifetimes worth of knowledge. There so many composers as well that I admire. I love singing Jason Robert Brown's music. I would love to sing anything he writes anytime. I also have my lifelong dream of being a back up singer for Stevie Wonder someday. That would make my life!

7. What have you learned about yourself from being a performer/songwriter? Oh gosh. I have discovered myself. As you grow and move through life and especially through a career like this, with its many ups and downs, you are constantly challenged to look at yourself and what you're all about. It pushes me to question who I am, what I think of myself, and what kind of a person and talent I want to be. I've learned to trust myself as a performer and it's given me confidence over the years. There is so much rejection and judgment that you feel in this business and through it all the most important thing I've learned is to be myself. I am enough and whatever I bring, if I am my full self and I give it my all, then that is all I have to do. Enjoy what I do and be my full self.

8. What's the best advice you've ever received? I can definitely reiterate what I said above. The advice to just be myself and trust that that is enough is the biggest lesson I've learned. Also learning to just trust in the universe and that I'm right where I'm suppose to be always. Sometimes in this business you want a gig so bad and you're sure it's made for you, but sometimes you don't know what's in store for you and I have always headed the advice of trusting that I'm right where I'm suppose to be, no matter what.

9. Favorite way to spend your day off? Yoga. Catching up on my DVR. Being outside. Lunch with a friend. Spending the night lounging around with my husband. 

10. Favorite way to stay in shape? Yoga and walking in the park.

BONUS QUESTION:

11. If you could have any super power, which one would you choose? Ooh. Time travel! Only at times of my choice of course, not like in "The Time Traveler's Wife."  But that would be amazing to see other moments in time.

Bobby Cronin: Daybreak Interview

I first interviewed three-time ASCAP Award winning composer/lyricist Bobby Cronin in 2009 when he had his CD release concert for "Reach the Sky" at the Laurie Beechman Theatre in NYC. Since that time Bobby has become continued to rack up the awards. He won the 2010 Award for "Outstanding Music & Lyrics" for "Ten Reasons I Won't Go Home With You" at the Midtown International Theatre Festival, "Best Original Web Score, Mockumentary Division," for his web-series, "THANK YOU, NEXT," and his new original musical "Daybreak" won the 2011 NJ Playwrights Contest. Now "Daybreak" will be having two productions this June, one in London and one in New Jersey! Bobby's other new original musical, "Welcome to My Life" (W2ML), his under option for a Broadway premiere!

Bobby is the first American writer to pen an original piece ("The Concrete Jungle") for the esteemed London ArtsEd School, which will also open in June 2012. Bobby's performed concerts around the globe: he headlined the March 2009 Lincoln Center Songbook Series, made his Los Angeles debut in May 2010 at Show at Barre, and made his London debut in February 2011 with a sold out concert at The Players Theatre.

To see the talent that is Bobby Cronin, make sure you go see his award winning new original musical "Daybreak," in London or New Jersey this June!

In London, "Daybreak" will play at Tristan Bates Theatre in London's Covent Gardens from June 5-30, directed by Hayley Cusick, produced by the award-winning Notion Theatre Company.

In New Jersey, "Daybreak" will play the William Patterson University campus on from June 7-24, directed by Edward Matthews and musically directed by Warren Helms & Charles Santoro. Click here for tickets!

For much more on Bobby be sure to visit http://www.bobbycronin.com and follow him on Facebook and Twitter!

1. What made you decide to write "Daybreak"? My previous agent, the awesome Chris Nichols, suggested that I add a song cycle or small musical to my project list. So, I racked my brain and looked through my "project ideas" folder (which I have had for about ten years now) and my mind started to create a framework for DAYBREAK starting with the Golden Gate Bridge which is the most notorious suicide structure in the world. I have lost several friends to suicide and am a supporter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention ( http://www.afsp.org/ ) and wanted to explore this idea in a musical. And while this creative process was just starting, my father's health was suffering, eventually leading to him falling into a coma. I would drive to the hospital in Boston twice, sometimes three times a week, and on those long car rides, I started thinking about my relationship with him and how I felt about all of the ups and downs we'd had. This was the true spark for what is now DAYBREAK. While the story is entirely fictional, there are many, many personal moments in the show.

2. What do you hope audiences come away with after seeing "Daybreak"? DAYBREAK is emotional roller coaster. I want the audience to go on the ride and leave the theatre believing in the power of truth, the power of change, the power of self-worth, the power or family, the power of dreams, the power of communication, and the power of love and self-love -- all without being preachy or corny. See, everybody makes mistakes and everybody feels lost at one time or another, but you must believe that there is a light at the end of that dark tunnel if you want to truly "live."

3. What was it like to write the music for this show? I loved writing this score! It is passionate, darkly humorous, witty, emotional, haunting, textured, and technically challenging. The harmonies are very tight, so that there is always tension. These characters start the show at the height of despair and end the show seeing the daybreak, feeling the weight lift off their shoulders, so to speak. So I needed to create a score that would give that musical journey for both the actor and audience.

4. What is your favorite part of the creative process in putting a show together? Getting the work off the page: rehearsal. Working with the actors and musical director and director...the whole team that creates a night of theatre. Watching and feeling the excitement in a rehearsal room is one of the greatest feelings in the world. With DAYBREAK, I have been blessed to have worked with some phenomenal actors and creative team members who really helped develop the piece through their own passion for the work. I am very lucky and very grateful for those kind and supportive people: Brett Teresa (who did some amazing additional lyrics and supportively guided me along the way), Johanna Pinzler, Sheri Sanders, Jenny DiNoia, David R. Gordon, Kasey Marino, Tricia Tanguy, E. Clayton Cornelious, LaQuet Sharnell, Ray Lee, Maria Pendolino, Marty Thomas, Brad Bass, Kate Pazakis, Eric Michael Krop, and the amazing William Demaniow, and more!

5. Where is your favorite place to write/practice on your own? I am big on "positive energy" and I have two places that have amazing writing energy:

1) In my music room in my apartment. I live right across the water in NJ and have the entire first floor of a 2-family house. The "sun room" has become the music room. And there is nothing like writing in a sunny room with four windows looking onto trees, grass and the sky.

2) I also have been very fortunate to have a steady outlet to my friend and big supporter Andi Poch's house on the Jersey Shore where I will go for several days at a time to write in her large house, a stone's throw to the most beautiful private beach. I take care of her sweet old beagles while there and write day and night. I love writing there...very quiet and it is just me and her two dogs (though very sadly, the oldest went to doggie heaven just last night...but she lived a long and happy 17 years and was very loved!)

6. What have you learned about yourself from being a composer/lyricist/writer? I have learned so much about myself! One of the biggest things I have learned it to trust my instincts, in every way possible. I have also learned that patience is a virtue, hard work pays off, and that I love my job! Since I was a little kid, I always "heard" music. I would sing ALL THE TIME. Night and day. On the ice while playing hockey (which I started at age 3 and stopped at age 22), while taking an exam in college, while lying in bed trying to fall asleep, walking around campus, walking around NYC: I'd sing these songs, complete with lyrics, that I'd "hear" in my head. Sometimes it's hard to quiet my brain down, but I am grateful to whomever keeps singing these songs to me! This is what I mean about instinct. I have no idea where these songs and scores come from, but I don't question it anymore. I just go with the flow, trying to put into my fingers what I hear in my head at that particular moment, for a particular character. So for me, like Friedrich Nietzsche said,  "Without music, life would be an error."

7. "Daybreak" recently won the NJ Playwrights contest. What did it mean to you to achieve this honor? It means a lot to me! This is a tough somewhat unforgiving business (and boy have I experienced that from many). Being a "go getter", I started my career doing as many concerts as possible so that my work could get out there. This has/had its advantages and disadvantages. One disadvantage was that I became known as "that concert guy" who could write good songs. Nobody knew that I was writing scores and that I had several musicals in development. Now that all of those projects are finished (W2ML with book writer Alicia Dempster; 'TIL DEATH DO US PART with book writer Allen Mogol; A CHRISTMAS CAROL with Angelyn Benson, and DAYBREAK with Brett Teresa), it is thrilling to be able to say that my MUSICAL won an award. Not my song. Not my concert. But an original book musical, not based on a movie or novel or play, won a statewide playwrighting contest. My agents are as excited as I am, believe me!

8. "Daybreak" is going to have a production in London and one in NJ this June. What excites you about these two upcoming productions? What is it like to be an international success? As I have been working my tush off the past few years, I am most excited to see the world of DAYBREAK come to life in two fully realized productions, complete with sets and costumes and sound cues and lights and a band and, you know, the real thing!! Every writer's dream, really. And, I am excited to see how the two productions differ, being performed for two very different audiences.

I am very lucky to have met an amazing agent in London, James Beresford, who literally saw me perform an 8-song concert of my work in a pub featuring members of the London cast of HAIR. (again with the concert, but look what this concert did for me...I have Daybreak and a new song cycle called THE CONCRETE JUNGLE which is being written for the ArtsEd School, Lord Webber is the president of the school, opening in the spring). James has been instrumental in getting my work to the West End community, a community that has been extremely welcoming and supportive of my work and that of other US composers.

9. What's the best advice you've ever received? I was at a holiday party a handful of years back,and having arrived late due to work, there were only five people there. We were sitting around drinking, chatting and this man next to me asked what I did for a living. I said "babysit, petsit, and bartend for now. I'm a composer/lyricist starting my career, waiting for someone to take notice..." He said, "oh really? I'm a composer. It's a tough business, believe me." We chatted for a while and then I said, "Oh, I'm Bobby, by the way." to which he replied, "I'm Frank...Frank Wildhorn." Well, I almost spit up my spiked egg nog, but did my best to keep my composure. He told me some really cool stories, some trivia, etc...He was so nice! As we were all leaving he said to me, "You're one of the nice guys, aren't you? Let me give you some advice: don't lose that. Stay a nice guy. And, contrary to what most composers would say to young writers, give your music to anyone who asks for it, because you never know who/what they will become."

Well, a few months later I nervously did my very first NYC concert and my friend Caissie Levy, an ensemble member of WICKED at the time, had heard my song "Dear Daddy" from W2ML (then called BRAT CAMP). She asked if she could sing it at this concert, which she did with her usual brilliance. Somehow the song got up on YouTube just as Caissie became Elphaba in LA. Suddenly I was getting daily emails asking if I sold my sheet music for "Dear Daddy" and "Reach The Sky" and others...I had no idea anyone other than the fifty people at the D-Lounge concert knew my music!

That same week, I happened to be doing a benefit with the amazing Scott Alan who also gave me great advice: "get a website, get more songs on YouTube, and sell your sheet music! I promise you, it will all pay for itself." So, I got a website and indeed  started to sell my sheet music. Shortly after, Caissie graced Broadway with her beautiful performance as Shelia in HAIR. Again, "Dear Daddy" on YouTube got tons of hits and I sold lots of sheet music. Suddenly I was making a living as a composer/lyricist! And then Caissie blew it up as Molly in GHOST (side note: I found out the casting directors of GHOST passed around an iPhone with her singing "Dear Daddy" on YouTube saying, "check this out. This is Molly!" -- note: what goes around, comes around. So spread around goodness. There's enough evil in this world.)

I now have tons of UK fans who are singing my music at auditions and showcases! It's a really cool feeling!

I am eternally grateful to Caisse, Frank and Scott...and all of the actors who have sung their hearts out for me.

10. If you could dream about anyone while you sleep, who would it be? I really want to say something intelligent or poignant, and even though I already have my dream man...I could dream all night about Hugh Jackman.

Ashley Dawn Mortensen

Photo Credit: Ronnie Nelson PhotographyAshley Dawn Mortensen is another one of our next generation performers who's on the rise! As a recent graduate of NYU's CAP21, Ashley has already performed in several concerts by award winning composer/lyricist Bobby Cronin and was just cast in the first National Tour of "Wicked" as the "Elphaba" understudy and in the Ensemble.

This is only the beginning for Ashley. With her beautifully powerful vocals, Ashley will be filling out theatres for many years to come!

Click here to find out when Ashley and "Wicked" will be flying into a city near you!

1. Who or what inspired you to become a performer? For me it would be what. My mom always said I came out of the womb singing. And when I see the home movies of me belting my face off with a 5 minute song I’m making up on the spot, in my angel costume, on the coffee table I guess I believe her. The creativity and ease of it all appealed to me. It’s something you have to have passion for and work at for sure, but then God kinda blesses you with the rest. Music and performance is an outlet for me unlike any other. When I first walked onto a stage it didn’t take me long to realize it’s where I belonged. When I’m up there everything else falls away. So I guess,  the what would be, that performing just feels like home.

2. If you could perform alongside anyone, who would you choose? My gut reaction would be Judy Garland. I didn’t grow up knowing every composer, lyricist, playwright, musical, or play ever written. In fact, until I hit college I barely knew who Sondheim was (sorry); but, I could watch "The Wizard of OZ" on repeat all day long (and we’re talking VHS, rewinding every time). I think I’ve seen and heard every, movie, talk show, performance, and recording she’s ever done. Her voice was a melting of heartbreak, passion, fight, and beauty you don’t find too often. She worked from a place in her soul few people know how to access. Her story, may be seen as tragic to some, but like most things in life I try to look at the good. Judy Garland was a force, and to share the stage with her would be completely humbling and awe inspiring.

3. What's the highest and lowest note you can sing? How do you protect your beautifully strong voice? I have no idea what my highest and lowest note is to be honest. I know I can belt really high and sing pretty low. My music theory teachers from high school and college would hate this, but I don’t read music that well, I hear it once or twice and I know it. That’s how I’ve always absorbed it. You inhale the notes and exhale the music. As for protecting these vocal cords of mine, it wasn’t until this last year that I really had to make a conscious effort to “warm up.” I was one of those people who could just wake up and sing like mad, but now at my ripe old age of 23 it takes a few more steps. I live for my humidifier during the winter and as long as I do some lip trills and my own made up warm ups (which includes the Beatle’s “Hey Jude” slowly going up the scale) I’m usually good to go.

4. You just joined the first national tour of "Wicked" as the "Elphaba" understudy and in the Ensemble. What excites you most about this? What will you bring to the role of "Elphaba" that someone else hasn't? I am excited about being a part of something I’ve never experienced before, making new friends, exploring new places and playing such a strong character. Bringing life to a character on a page is what actors do, but I think the most important part of being an actor is bringing heart. Whether you’re in the ensemble or a principle, it’s so important to find those moments when the audience can relate to you and feel like they are a part of what is happening. In that vein I think the only thing I can bring that’s new to the role is myself. “Wicked” is so relevant today and I think will continue to be always, and in both my ensemble and "Elphaba" track I want to be honest and relatable even in heightened circumstances.

5. What do you identify with "Elphaba" the most? I love "Elphaba’s" strength. She never feels sorry for herself and she is such a powerful independent woman. Throughout the show you see these moments of vulnerability, which I think just makes her stronger. She isn’t afraid to fight for what she believes in and her passion makes her beautiful. For her it’s about doing what’s just and true, which is something we forget when the easy way is so accessible.

6. What is your favorite part of the preview/rehearsal period in a show? Where is your favorite place to practice on your own? Being put into a show that is already been running for quit sometime is unlike anything I’ve experienced. You’re rehearsing all on your own, with the dance captain acting as the rest of the cast (most of whom you still don’t know there names). So as things begin to slowly click it’s incredibly helpful to watch the show from backstage, the audience, from Stage Management, to see not only the logistics (spacing, traffic, etc) but also to see how what you’ve been working on becomes this wonderful stage filled with body’s intricately telling a story. When I rehearse on my own, I usually just stay in my room. I move from working things on my feet, to sitting on my bed going over things in my head, and listening to the music.

7. You've performed in several of award winning composer/lyricist's Bobby Cronin's concerts. What attracts you to his music? What have you learned from working with Bobby? Bobby Cronin is a passionate, driven, caring, brutally honest and eager teacher, friend, composer and writer. His music reflects that. Not to mention, he really knows how to write for the singer to truly shine both vocally and through intriguing story telling. His music is intricate and often unpredictable, and I LOVE that. The most valuable thing I’ve taken from Bobby is to know who are and stay true to that. It’s something I think he truly lives by in life and through his passion for his work and it’s something I deeply admire.

8. What have you learned about yourself from being a performer? It is so important to have a life once you leave the theatre. Have a hobby, exercise, hang out friends, try new foods and listen to all different kinds of music. We are lucky enough to do what we love as our profession, but like most jobs, it’s important to not bring your work home and let it consume all of who you are. I never want to be just one note. In the same vein, I am a perfectionist and can easily get caught up in working myself till my head pops off, but then when i do my daily workouts, read, watch “24” and just let things gel, I find I am more relaxed as a person and a performer.

9. What's the best advice you've ever received? I had some inspiring acting teachers in college, and coming in as a ripe Freshman from the backwoods of Rescue, CA (population my family), never haven taken an acting class in my life, headed to the Big Apple, I was open to everything I could learn. My freshman acting teacher was Larry Arancio and I he gave me invaluable advice; but, one piece stands out above all the rest. Just Breathe. It applies onstage and off. You can’t let tension creep in because that’s when you second guess yourself and words stop flowing naturally. When you breathe and let go, something beautiful happens....You allow yourself to shine.

10. If you could dream about anyone while you sleep, who would it be? My husband. (I know it sounds cliche) But, now that I’m on tour, especially, I couldn’t mean it more. He is my best friend and the love of my life. If it weren’t for him I would certainly not be where or who I am today. I could spend every second with him and my dreams are no exception. Loving him is like breathing or singing. I have to. I want to. I need to. It would be pretty great if while I was out on tour, after a long day, when I closed my eyes at night, it was like Davin was right there with me.

BONUS QUESTIONS:

11. Favorite way to stay in shape? I am a health nut (although for those that really know me, know I love my jelly beans and red vines as well) so I lead a very active lifestyle. P90X and Insanity are my workouts of choice. They are incredible programs that incorporate muscle confusion and circuit training so your body can rebuilt and sculpt itself into what you never thought possible. You burn calories at a higher rate even when you’re not doing the workouts. Not to mention it’s pretty fantastic that you can roll out of bed, pop in a dvd and go to town.

12. Favorite skin care product? I fluctuate. But lately I’ve been on a YON-KA kick. Yon-ka draws from essential oils, fruit, and plant extracts and targets the specific needs of individuals to restore the skin’s vitality. Plus it smells AMAZING.

13. Favorite website? Etsy. I found so many things for my wedding on this site! Now I just like to explore. You can get virtually anything and the products are so creative and fun that they make great gift ideas. Not to mention you can support local businesses.

14. Superman or Wonder Woman? Superman. He wears his underwear over his clothes. That takes some serious cajones of steel.