Words From The Wings: NEW YORK, NEW YORK's John Clay III on Backstage Rituals, Favorite Moments, and More!
Words From the Wings brings fans behind the scenes of some of their favorite Broadway stars' backstage routines!
By: Stephi Wild May. 29, 2023
BroadwayWorld is bringing you Words From the Wings, a new series of interviews that take fans behind the scenes of some of their favorite Broadway stars' backstage routines!
Today we're chatting with John Clay III from New York, New York! Zach told us all about his pre-show rituals, favorite backstage moments, and more!
Check out his answers, along with photos taken by BroadwayWorld's Jennifer Broski, below!
What's the first thing you do when you arrive to the theatre?
I go to my dressing room and put music on. I have to set the vibes in the room and make sure I'm as centered as possible.
What's the last thing you do before you go on stage?
The last thing I do is hug everyone on my side of the stage and wish them the best.
What's your must-have backstage snack?
I don't necessarily have a snack backstage. However, I do have a 2nd dinner at intermission that could vary from salads to burgers. I'm pretty tall and go to the gym so I can eat nonstop.
Pre-show ritual that others may think is weird?
My diction exercises are a little obnoxious but totally worth it because if the audience doesn't understand what's going on... you will lose them and it's hard to get them back if they can't hear you clearly.
What are five must-haves in your dressing room?
- Sea moss face mask
- Singing straws to warm down and up
- Lotion (can't be ashy onstage)
- Toothbrush
- Cologne (if you smell good, you feel good)
What's your favorite moment from the show to watch from the wings?
Watching Anna sing and act the number Happy Endings effortlessly.
What has been your favorite backstage moment in your time with this show so far?
Watching The Missouri Boys transition into Time Square with castmates in the basement. Us bonding over their profound storytelling is something I won't forget.
About John Clay III
Broadway: Choir Boy (MTC, OCC Nominee). Off-Broadway: Raisin in the Sun (Public Theater), Grand Hotel (Encores!). TV: "Raising Kanan," PBS' "Great Performances" (Mass). Education: Carnegie Mellon University. IG: @johnclayiii
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