BWW Interviews: Jodi Benson talks Hollywood Hits and Little Mermaid

This week New York Pops Conductor Steven Reineke returns to Toronto to conduct our fabulous Toronto Symphony in an evening of "Hollywood Hits" sure to please music and movie enthusiasts alike. He brings with him two very talented singers - Jodi Benson and Hugh Panaro. Mr. Reineke's shows are always a special treat as he brings his love of all things musical and infectious joy to whatever stage he graces.

Hugh Panaro is a fantastic tenor and star of many Broadway musicals, including Phantom of the Opera in which he was the only actor to ever play both Raoul and the Phantom. Mr. Panaro also played Ravenal in the Original London Company of Showboat before coming to Toronto to originate the role here. Jodi Benson is best known for creating the voice of ‘Ariel' in Disney's The Little Mermaid, as well as having created the role of Penny in Crazy for You.

‘Hollywood Hits' promises to showcase all the best movie songs and scores in one splendid evening. Some songs confirmed for the evening are Over the Rainbow, Moon River, Cabaret and The Way We Were. As a special treat, Ms. Benson will also be performing songs from The Little Mermaid. BWW got the chance to talk with Ms. Benson prior to her arrival in Toronto and we are thrilled to bring you this exclusive Q&A:

Welcome to Toronto! You have performed all over the world - is this your first time here? And either way, what are you most looking forward to?

This is my first time with the symphony but I have worked in Toronto a few times before with Disney. I'm looking forward to singing with the terrific symphony and Maestro Reineke and my friend Hugh.

Audiences know you probably first and foremost as the voice of Ariel in The Little Mermaid, but your resume encompasses much more than that (including the Tony Award winning turn in Crazy For You). What would you say was your favourite role? And how did you keep from being pigeon-holed as Ariel?

I love Ariel! I have the greatest job in the world. On stage, I loved playing Polly in Crazy for You. A dream role for me. I am blessed to perform in the studio and on the concert stage.

At this concert you will treat audiences to songs from The Little Mermaid - will you be performing any other Hollywood classics?

Yes! Over the Rainbow, Cabaret, The Way We Were...

Could you pick a favourite song from The Little Mermaid score?

Of course, Part of Your World!!

What is the main challenge for you when voicing a cartoon versus performing live?

Capturing everything you are feeling using voice alone. It is both wonderful and challenging.

You are a role model for young girls everywhere, many of whom fell in love with singing thanks to you. Do you ever get a chance to mentor any up and comers?

Yes, I love working with talented young performers. At the university level, I have seen so many students that I know will be thriving in the entertainment industry very soon.

I imagine you get a lot of fan correspondence and interaction (especially from fans of The Little Mermaid) - is there one instance that stands out as most memorable?

Connecting with the kids is a great joy for me. I love meeting them backstage or at a signing event. I am overwhelmed when I meet kids who struggle with terminal illnesses. I'm grateful our movie can bring some happiness to their lives.

Now that you are a Mom, do you encourage your children to get involved in the arts?

My husband and I support them in whatever they desire. Right now, they both play academy soccer and love it! They are beautiful pianists, too. We encourage them in any activity they choose.

Finally, is there one dream role you still aspire to do?

Any role in a Disney/Pixar film! I love working for Disney! They are my family. God has really blessed me and my family. It has been a wonderful journey these past 25 years!!

When and Where?
The Toronto Symphony presents Hollywood Hits

Roy Thomson Hall

Performance Schedule:

Concerts are Tuesday October 4th at 8PM and Wednesday October 5th at 2PM and 8PM
Tickets range from $31-109 and can be purchased in person at the box office, by phone at 416.593.4828 or online

 

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