BWW Interviews: Ma-Anne Dionisio of CATS

BroadwayWorld Toronto Contributor Alan Aronshtam sat down for an interview with Ma-Anne Dionisio, who plays Grizabella in the new Canadian Production of Cats.

The production begins previews today, and has an official opening night set of June 11.

Fore more information on the production, cast bios, and tickets, visit CatsTo.com.

Alan: As a child, what got you interested in performing?

Ma-Anne: As a child I dreamt of being an astronaut and had a really strong desire to fly. I also, at one point, toyed with the idea of being a nun. (I wanted to be a priest but was told that a girl wasn't allowed to be a priest.) And of course, not unlike most little girls, I wanted to be a ballerina.

Alan: Did you perform in the Philippines before moving to Canada?

Ma-Anne: I used to be part of a dance troupe that performed traditional Filipino folk dances like "Tinikling" and "Pandanggo sa Ilaw." I was also signed as recording artist with Vicor recording when I was 14 years old and at the same time, was introduced into the world of television acting through a major network's (ABS-CBN) program that featured young actors cast with the more known and experienced actors in TV movies that were aired weekly.

Alan: Your name has become synonymous with the role of Kim in Miss Saigon. You've performed the role many times in multiple productions. What has that been like for you?

Ma-Anne: Miss Saigon has played a significant role in my life. I am very grateful for the experience. It's allowed me to grow both as an actor and a person. It quite literally changed my life. Having performed it with so many different companies, I've had the privilege of working with so many talented and beautiful people. Some have remained close friends. I've also had the opportunity to learn and experience the different cultures in the different countries that I've lived in while I performed. Australia will always have a special place in my heart.

Alan: You were the second Asian actress to play Eponine in North America, after Lea Salonga. Many people often compare you two - in fact - she recently played Grizabella in Manila. Have you two met?

Ma-Anne: Yes. She's a friend. To date, we've done two shows together, "Flower Drum Song" (the revival on Broadway) and "Allegiance" (a workshop of a new show coming to Broadway). Lea rocks!

Alan: Your performance in Miss Saigon earned you the honor of a Dora Award. What was that experience like?

Ma-Anne: The first time I was nominated, it was surreal. It was almost as surreal as me playing the role. I was very young and very new to it all. I really didn't know what to think of it at the time. The second time I was nominated when I came back to Toronto to reprise the role at the Four Seasons, I felt very happy and was quite proud of it and at the same time humbled by the honor of receiving the nomination. I had more of an understanding of what it meant to be nominated for such an award and at that point in my career, and considering how much of my life, I had invested in that particular show, I also felt deserving of the recognition. It felt good.

Alan: You performed Maria in West Side Story at the Stratford Festival. That score is considered one of the most challenging in all of musical theatre. How would you describe your time with the festival?

Ma-Anne: I thought, if they were brave enough to choose me, then I'm brave enough to take the challenge on. It helped that I had tremendous support from an amazing creative team and a wonderful cast to play with. The festival provided me with all the tools I needed to develop the role ... dialect coach, singing coach, a teacher to practice the Alexander technique and Pilates. I had access to so much learning.

I also had just had my first child when I moved there for the run of the show. So, that in itself, was a challenge. But Stratford was such a quaint and pretty town. My son and I enjoyed our first year together taking strolls and having picnics. He also had his first birthday there. Party!

Alan: What has the rehearsal process been like? You have just four weeks from start of rehearsals to first preview. How difficult is it to get the entire show into performance-ready shape in that short time period?

Ma-Anne: It's been such an inspiring time. I am always fascinated by how other artists practice their craft and am always amazed when everything comes together. I feel I am in good hands with this company. There is a perfect mix of generosity, challenge and nurturing. It has certainly been an ideal and safe environment for me to learn a new character.

Alan: Being in a physical show such as Cats means you really need to take care of yourself. What does your typical 8-show week look like? What do you do on your day off?

Ma-Anne: Sleep and proper nutrition are obvious parts of a healthy routine. On days off, its nice to find the time to replenish and re-energize, either by doing nothing or doing something that makes you happy - whatever that may be at the time!

Alan: Generally, performers in Cats are trained to do their own makeup. Do you find the makeup application process difficult, and how long does it take from start to finish?

Ma-Anne: I've only had one go at applying the make-up myself and while it was a little time consuming, I am told it'll go quicker and easier with practice. Brad has done an amazing job designing our faces. I've never done make-up like this and it is certainly a challenge getting the detail and intricacies right. Practice, practice, practice!

Alan: What's your favorite part of performing in Cats?

Ma-Anne: It's all very new to me. I don't know yet, you'll have to get back to me on this one!

Alan: Are you excited about performing for an audience, instead of just in the rehearsal room?

Ma-Anne: I am anxious, nervous, and excited. It's always a different energy when performing in front of an audience. And as I mentioned before, stepping into such an iconic role brings about certain expectations. I can only hope to keep myself calm enough to be present in the moment and not judge it myself.

Alan: Prior to previews, most productions go through a grueling tech period. Do you have any tips in getting through the long days?

Ma-Anne: I take my journal with me - so I can write. I also bring my iPod to listen to my favourite music. A good book and lots of snacks is also helpful.

Alan: This production of Cats is going to incorporate a new scenic design and projections. The original design of Cats is so iconic, and some "purists" might argue that it should not be changed. Do you think classic shows need to continue to evolve to attract new audiences?

Ma-Anne: That's a tough one. I'm all for shows evolving but also respect keeping classics the way they are. Hmmm.... I guess it would depend on the type of "evolution." If it's something that enriches the show, then by all means, do it!

Alan: Cats has been seen by millions of people worldwide, translated into more than 20 languages, and once held the longest running Broadway musical record as well as the longest running West End musical record. What do you think people love about the show, and what keeps bringing them back to see it again and again?

Ma-Anne: I haven't the slightest idea, I'm still discovering it for myself!

Alan: Is there any dream role you'd love the chance to perform after Cats?

Ma-Anne: Yes, there are a few, but it'll only happen if someone is brave enough to cast me in what are traditionally non-Asian roles.

Alan: Lastly, what's your advice to anyone getting started in theatre?

Ma-Anne: Do not let anyone put you down. Follow your heart and what makes you happy into every opportunity you get and if it makes you happy you'll be good at it!