Lisa Gajda News

 In this episode: Broadway's Beth Johnson Nicely was just thrust back into the audition world after the closing of Something Rotten, but with her tap shoes in hand she is forever moving forward. New York has forced this Ohio gal to grow up in the business, but it hasn't darkened her truly nice spirit.  She may not carry headshots developed in her high school darkroom in her purse anymore, but this sweet girl knows the difference between being sexy verses sexual, is self aware,  and will continue to love learning; because that is what makes her strong (and also Body by Simone).

 In this episode: Adam Perry of the Public's Joan of Arc: Into the Fire grew up in the rural mountains of conservative Tennessee, where he learned how to hide his true self. Since then, he's reinvented himself from an awkward teen in husky jeans into one of Broadways most sought after male ensemble members. This southern gentleman talks about the realities of social media, how he never thought he'd be 'cool' enough to be on Broadway and how his biggest dream was to be a performer at Dollywood (which is actually where he was when he found out he would make his Broadway debut).

 IN TRANSIT's Nicholas Ward made his Broadway debut in his mid-30s in ON THE TOWN and now has a featured role in the a cappella musical, where he is the foundation of the chord. Growing up 'in the sticks' he never dreamed he'd be creating music on Broadway, but with some faith, a good foundation, and the trust that life will come full circle, he is on the rise. It's his appreciation of magical moments that makes him so congenial, but it's his knowledge that they must be shared that makes him so special. 

In this episode: Asolo Rep's Miss Adelaide, Veronica J Kuehn, has currently given up her gypsy robe for a mink stole in 'Guys and Dolls'. She sacrificed walking on graduation to make her Broadway debut and continued a career in bikinis, on roller skates, and with puppets. In this episode she shares things she wished she'd known before hitting NYC, breaking away from the ensemble, and how being focused and fearless paved the way for a young chorine to become a leading lady.

In this episode: Todd Anderson began is career with Twyla Tharp, made his Broadway debut with Hugh Jackman, and then went on to cover 36 tracks in 4 different companies as Wicked's universal swing. He grew up in Texas in the 80s when being 'different' wasn't always easy. With the mantra of 'I just never thought I couldn't,' he pounded the pavement, dancing with the skill of finding his quiet place to survive the concrete jungle.

In this episode: Wes Pope & Richie Mastascusa have performed on Broadway, the West End, and at Radio City Music Hall. They've graced the silver screen and television in everything from Gap commercials to Dr. Oz. They we the first gay couple to be on 'Fear Factor' and are known for facing the fear factor of the next chapter of their careers. The thing that makes this episode so special is their joy of life or 'joie de vivre'. They solve everything from showbiz to politics with laughter, and its contagious. In today's climate, listen to these two talented men face the unknown, giggling all the way.

In this episode: Broadway's Michael Cusumano won the World's top medal for ballet at the age of 14 in Bulgaria, and at 15 was the youngest company member of ABT. In this episode, Michael talks about his transition from the ballet world to the world of musical theatre, how he confronted male body issues and learned to not hate his body, and says that teaching is what currently fills his heart. He has dealt with bullying and self-doubt, but has made brave decisions about his career because he now follows his inner-voice.

The Legendary Chita Rivera got her musical theatre start at the age of 17 on the 1st national tour of 'Call Me Madam' and every step since then has paved the way to making her Carnegie Hall debut on Monday Nov. 7th 2016 at 8:00 in Chita: Nowadays. Chita refers to herself as an eternal gypsy, talks about how dancing is acting without words, and that listening is the best way to learn the craft. With ten Tony nominations and two wins, and with consummate wisdom and skill, Chita shares that many of the disciplines that made her a star, she learned from dancing in the chorus. When the universe opens a door, Chita Rivera always peeks in. 

In this episode: Wicked's Jerad Bortz has lit up the Gershwin stage for 11 years and has the attitude of, 'I get to do this everyday' and shares that experience with his cast and audience. After getting his first encouragement from his Grandma, he learned how to swing in a theme park (36 tracks), made his Broadway in Mamma Mia!, and says 'Yes' to life.

In this episode: Janelle A. Robinson trained in opera but always had a love for musical theatre. She has cake walked to "Can't Help Loving that Man" and gave out letters in "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.' Janelle talks about being classical trained, becoming a a teacher, race relations in theater, her truth on the myths of non traditional casting, and still being miffed she didn't get cast as Maria in "Sound of Music' as child.

Kinky Boots' Nathan Peck gives an honest take on the reality of aging as a dancer, the toll injuries take on the mind (not just the body), and the sadness one feels when one just cant do what he used to. That being said, Nathan is embracing becoming a character man, loves choreography as just acting with movement, is just a natural comedian, and can still kick 171 degrees. (loosing the 19 degrees is only noticeable to him)

Feinstein's/54 Below, Broadway's Supper Club, presents BROADWAY STORIES on July 27th, 2016 at 9:30pm.

Next week, Feinstein's/54 Below, Broadway's Supper Club & Private Event Destination, presents some of the brightest stars from Broadway, cabaret, jazz, and beyond, including Tony Danza, Jennifer Damiano and more.

Celebrating the release of the original Broadway Cast Recording of TUCK EVERLASTING, cast members Andrew Keenan Bolger, Michael Parkand Michael Wartella joined composer Chris Miller, lyricist Nathan Tysen and co-bookwriter Tim Federle for a three-song performance, discussion and signing at the Barnes and Noble at 86th & Lexington Ave (150 East 86th Street, New York, NY 10028) earlier this month. BroadwayWorld has photos from the event below!

In this episode: On Your Feet's David Baida- If you were to combine phrases like: 'Slow and steady wins the race,' 'Don't give up on your dreams,' 'Perseverance is the key,' you'd find the career of David Baida. His story spans 20 years of not giving up, finding his creativity outside NYC and within himself, and leaving the business many times. Now he can say its because of Lin-Manuel Miranda that he's working with Gloria Estefan.

Feinstein's/54 Below, Broadway's Supper Club, presents BROADWAY STORIES on July 27th, 2016 at 9:30pm.

Celebrating the release of the original Broadway Cast Recording of TUCK EVERLASTING, cast members Andrew Keenan Bolger, Michael Park and Michael Wartella join composer Chris Miller, lyricist Nathan Tysen and co-bookwriter Tim Federle for a three-song performance, discussion and signing. *This is a wristbanded event. Priority seating with CD purchase from B&N Upper East. Participants subject to change.

In this episode: Susann Fletcher- a whore for Tommy Tune, a Stripper for Jerome Robbins, and a damsel in distress in Bloodsucking Pharoahs in Pittsburgh. She has enough career stories to fill a novel. At her emotional core she is just grateful to still be in this business with her tribe. She plans to continue to break down barriers, mentor the future, and persevere when the inner demons want to set up shop in her head. All the greatness came out of the need to correct a childhood club foot.

Earlier this month, BroadwayWorld announced the results for our first annual Broadway's Backbone Best Musical Ensemble Award, which went to the company of Allegiance. Darren Lee accepted the award on behalf of his cast, with the help of Broadway favorite Sean Palmer and you can check out how it all went down below!