Interview: Laura Benanti to Headline Cabaret Project of St. Louis Gala

On April 29th, The Cabaret Project of St. Louis is presenting Laura Benanti at The Sheldon for her first solo performance in St. Louis. Ms. Benanti is a Tony Award Winner and five time nominee. Ahead of the event, BroadwayWorld sat down with the celebrated star of Stage and Screen.

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Tell us about your upcoming performance on April 29th for The Cabaret Project of St. Louis - what should audiences expect to hear when they settle in at the beautiful Sheldon Concert Hall?

The thing I love most about live concerts is helping the audience feel like they're sitting in my living room listening to stories and hearing their favorite songs from Broadway shows, the American songbook and beyond. It's as relaxed as can be!

You have an incredible career - big Broadway hits, television, film , - how does performing a solo cabaret/concert differ from working in these other mediums?

First of all, thank you! This is genuinely my favorite thing to do because it combines all my loves - music, improv and human connection.

Part of The Cabaret Project of St. Louis' mission is to provide song performance training to singers. We understand you are teaching a master class to college performers while in town. What are your thoughts about training young performers and who made the greatest impact on your development when you were coming up?

I started performing professionally when I was 17 years old and and feel very connected to young performers. I think perfectionism is a big hurdle for many of us in this industry. Helping young artists get out of their own way and bring forth their truest selves is an honor.

There are so many people who laid the foundation for the beautiful life I'm so lucky to live. First off my Mother! Patrick Parker and Suzie Speidel at PaperMill Playhouse. Jay Binder, the wonderful casting director. Tessa Lang who understands the physiological components of the voice in a truly astounding way. Chita Rivera. Patti LuPone. Rebecca Luker. I could go on forever!

You have performed the work of some of the greatest musical theater composers in history (Sondheim, Rodgers & Hammerstein, Lerner & Lowe, Harnick & Bock, etc.) - is there a number (or numbers) you've performed on stage that is special to you?

Every note of Sondheim I sing has been a gift. I hope I get to sing "The Sound of Music" for as long as I live. "Dear Friend" is one of the most beautiful pieces I've ever sung.

St. Louis is very excited about your show! Is this your St. Louis debut?

It is!! I have never even been to the city!! I am VERY excited. Hope to see you there!

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Show only tickets as well as full Gala tickets for An Evening With Laura Benanti are available here. The Gala tickets include valet parking, a cocktail hour, 3-course dinner, preferred seating, and a post-show reception with Laura Benanti. The show is on April 29th and the evening kicks off at 6pm.