Breaking The Virtual Wall Series

 

BREAKING THE VIRTUAL WALL SERIES: ARTISTS AT HOME 

As an actor and headshot & performance photographer, I’ve been reaching out to artists I’ve met along the way. They’ve soothed my soul, given me things to think about and filled me in on their lives at this time. Click images to enlarge.

Erica McDermott

I talked to Erica McDermott, a dear friend as well as an acclaimed stage and film actress who got her big break when she attended an open call and was cast as a fighter sister in the movie The Fighter. 

Barbara Pierre

Earth day is the perfect day to introduce Barbara Pierre. While it’s hard to feel the impact of crystals and plants through a computer screen, Barbara’s love for them immediately brought a feeling of calm to our virtual conversation. She has a powerhouse voice with an energy as bright as the sun. She is just an all around wonderful person. *Artwork in Barbara’s portrait is by her sister!

Nicole Albanese

Through everything I’ve done with Nicole Albanese, her kindness and artistry always shine through. We’ve shared the stage, I’ve choreographed her in a show and I’ve taken her headshot a few times. I encourage you to swipe all the way to the end to read a passage from her journal. The beauty of her writing matches the beauty of her voice.

MICKEY WHITE

Mickey White danced his way into my heart when we played opposite each other in 42nd Street this past fall. His voice is simply stunning and he is such a committed artist, always honing his craft. Mickey’s future is SO bright that I can see it at the end of this tunnel.

Peter Mill

Peter Mill is a true class act. On stage and off stage he leads with a tremendous amount of heart, a perfect amount of wit and a type of humour that would make both Carol Burnett and Elaine Stritch proud. It’s hard to not adore Peter Mill!  Cheer him on next Monday when the Elliot Norton Awards stream live - he received a nomination for Outstanding Musical Performance By An Actor for playing Frank-N-Furter in Moonbox Productions’ The Rocky Horror Picture Show.

 
 

BECCA FORD

It is always a joy to talk to Becca Ford. She brightens any room! She has such a deep love for the arts - and it really shows when she’s on stage. She is a bright spark of talent who always wants to learn more, which I really admire.

 
 
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BRIANA FALLON

Not only does Briana Fallon love to dance, she also loves to choreograph and teach — and she is amazing at all three disciplines! Having been in a few shows with Briana, I can attest to her extraordinary work ethic and desire to perfect each step. On stage she conveys effortless magic, though it’s the product of sheer talent, her love for dance and SO MUCH WORK!

 
 
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ANGELA HOPE SMITH

I met Angela Hope Smith while filming the movie Chappaquiddick. We played two of the Boiler Room Girls - she played Maryellen Lyons and I played Cricket Keough. I have not seen Angela since filming (other than maybe an audition or two!), but she is so lovely to work with. She has a calming presence and is so very bright - two traits of a superb actor! And Angela’s artful pursuits extend beyond the stage and screen into drawing and crochet work. Plus, check her out in the recently released Defending Jacob on Apple TV+.

 
 
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JENNA LEA SCOTT

I met Jenna Lea Scott when we both performed in Wheelock Family Theatre’s production of Peter Pan. She brought such beautiful energy to that musical - particularly with her dancing. But Jenna can do it all with a perfect combination of grace and strength! Plus, she is a teaching artist and with her bubbly laugh and bright personality, I have seen kids drawn to the beautiful spirit she brings to teaching.

 
 
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JADE WHEELER

Jade Wheeler graciously agreed to participate in this series from Antwerp, Belgium! And I’m so happy that she did. Our wifi connection may have been a bit spotty at times (we’re not exactly down the street from each other), but the sunny day in Antwerp paired with Jade’s bright spirit made for such a lovely virtual moment. We met, actors working together, on the world premiere of Dark Room at Bridge Repertory Theater. I had to pre-set on the balcony at the top of the show and didn’t come on until the finale, so it gave me the chance - every night - to closely watch the performance of all of my fellow actors. I’ll always remember Jade’s performance as Mira: her power and boldness coupled with her humor and tenderness. Before Jade moved to Antwerp, I was lucky to see her stunning solo show, “Who Is Eartha Mae?”. Jade is an artist who is not afraid to take risks, and by taking those risks she brings characters to the stage who step right up and pull you in to an unforgettable experience.

 
 
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DOUG JABARA

I met Doug Jabara when I was 14 years old at Wheelock Family Theatre. He went on to be my amazing voice teacher for years. We had lessons all over the place: his home studio in NYC, the top floor of Turtle Lane Playhouse, via Skype, at homes of fellow students - a list too long to name! So many memories. I will be honest that I got a bit swamped with these Breaking The Virtual Wall interviews, so my interview with Doug is a little out of date. The world is changing fast these days, but Doug is keeping up. He’s using his talent to reach out to others and it’s with so much heart and joy. He’s a friend, teacher, collaborator and entertainer who always gives his all.

 
 
 
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