Interview: HALEY IZURIETA of BEETLEJUICE at McCALLUM

Along with other articles about Haley Izurieta--to wit:  local woman returns to the Coachella Valley in the Ensemble of the Broadway hit Beetlejuice--I was delighted to be granted an interview via a telephone conversation with her. Since the show is moving on after Sunday, March 29, you might call this an afterview. Even on the phone, Haley is gracious, forthcoming, and enthusiastic, especially about her years-long association with Green Room Theatre Company, which is something she and I have in common.

Although Haley grew up dancing, she told me she was open to acting.  So when her mother suggested that she enroll in a summer theater workshop--like a summer camp, Haley says--offereed by Green Room Theatre Company, she accepted the opportunity. Haley was in 7th grade at the time. During the next seven years, Green Room became an important part of her life. Her first play with the company was a melodrama, which spurred her inclination to continue. She acted, danced, and choreographed many shows for Green Room, and eventually, Haley played the title role in Mary Poppins for the company.  

Haley credits David Catanzarite, Executive Artistic Director of Green Room, for recognizing that she thrives on fully expressing herself and providing her opportunies to do so.  

"I learned a lot from David," she said.  "He taught me all the little details that go along with acting--things that come with years of experience. I always thought I would concentrate only on dancing. I'm grateful to David and Green Room for helping me develop all of my skills. 

"When you graduated from high school, what came next?"     

"I moved to Orange County and attended Fullertom College," she replied. "I continued acting and dancing and worked on my singing."  Haley now has a degree in Musical Theater.

"Did you go straight to New York after graduation?"

"No, I stayed in California, signed with an agent, and worked in theater for four years.  Then I moved to New York and realized I needed a different agent there.  I began to audition and was cast in the pop musical Six, which reimagines the tales of the six wives of Henry VIII."

"What was your first New York audition like, Haley?"

"I was scared.  I still get scared, but when I know I've done a good job, I feel good."

"Now that you're understudying several roles in Beetlejuice, do you ever wonder what it would be like to get the call to go on?" 

"I'm ready.  The creative team has made sure that I'm well prepared. In fact, the entire cast is gets helpful coaching."

"What will you take away from this experience?"

""It's a lot of hard work, and moments like this are a full circle--the payoff. The cast has become friends and family.  Everyone is very kind and supportive." 

I had the pleasure of seeing the show last Wednesday, so I understand what you mean by hard work.  Haley Izurieta has a promising career.  Thank you, Haley, for generously giving me time to get to know you a little.