LA: Where are you originally from?

BV: I grew up in Chaska, MN.

LA: Why did this particular play interest you?

BV: I absolutely love Barefoot in the Park. It’s been one of my favorites for quite some time. Whenever I talk about the show I honestly can’t help but grin like an idiot. It’s sheer fun – to watch and to perform. The characters are vivid and completely endearing. It’s hilarious, touching, and just great entertainment. When I saw that Lyric Arts was doing it, I knew I had to audition. I’ve wanted to play Paul for many years, so this is a dream come true for me.

LA: For those that are unfamiliar with Barefoot in the Park can you tell us about the show?

BV: Barefoot in the Park is about Paul and Corie Bratter, a pair of newlyweds fresh off their honeymoon. They move into their new apartment, which is awful in about every conceivable way, and experience all the wild ups and downs of married life in a very short period of time.

LA: Talk about the character that you play in Barefoot in the Park. How have you developed this character?

BV: I play Paul Bratter, a freshly minted husband and lawyer. He is very neat, non-impulsive, and cautious about everything he does. He also has an incredibly dry wit and penchant for sarcasm. However, he’s definitely head over heels in love with Corie. I have quite a lot of zingers in the show, so it’s been interesting finding the right balance between sarcasm and sincerity. Without giving anything away, there is also a development for Paul in Act 3 that affects my physicality. I have been doing a lot of research for it – watching a lot of YouTube and various scenes from movies to help me accurately depict what occurs. (Sorry – that’s just a giant tease isn’t it? Hmm… well I suppose you’ll just have to see the show then!)

LA: Talk about your fellow cast. How do you see their characters developing? Any that you are particularly amazed at?

BV: Honestly, our entire cast is really talented. Cheesy but true. However, I find that Patti McCarthy gives me the giggles more than anyone else. Patti plays Ethel Banks, Paul’s mother-in-law. Every time I turn around, she’s getting funnier and funnier. There are also a couple of moments in the show that are genuinely sweet and heart-warming, which Patti completely knocks out of the park.

LA: Even though Barefoot in the Park was written in the 1960’s how will today’s audience relate to the show?

BV: I think that absolutely everyone will see some of themselves in these characters. They’re so well written that you can’t help but love them and root for them. And even though the outside factors may have changed, the heart of the show hasn’t. The core relationships, their dynamics, and the conflicts that arise as a result are really timeless. Neil Simon has also imbued the show with genuine wisdom regarding relationships, both married or otherwise, that is just as applicable now as it was in the 60s.

LA: What is your favorite Neil Simon piece of work and why?

BV: Neil Simon is of course a legendary playwright, and I’ve enjoyed everything of his that I’ve seen or read thus far, but Barefoot in the Park is definitely my favorite. His book for Sweet Charity is fun. I also really enjoy Star Spangled Girl.

LA: What is your favorite aspect of performing at Lyric Arts?

BV: This is actually my first show with Lyric Arts! It’s been a real treat. I think my favorite part has been the cast and production team. This is easily the smallest cast I’ve ever been a part of and everyone is just plain fun to be around. Also, the Lyric Arts slogan “big city theater, small town charm” really is completely true. There is a dedication to produce excellent theater, but Lyric Arts never lets the show overwhelm the people involved. As an actor, there’s a tremendous amount of support and creative freedom.

LA: What is your favorite theater, movie, and TV comedy?

BV: Favorite movie comedy is definitely Clue. Tim Curry, Madeline Kahn, and Eileen Brennan… just… perfection. As for TV, I’m a HUGE fan of Pushing Daisies. If you haven’t seen it, drop what you’re doing right now and find both seasons on DVD. It’s endlessly clever, romantic, visually arresting, sharply written, macabre in a humorous way, and sports an eclectic, excellent cast. As for theater, I’m not sure I can pick a single favorite. I love Noises Off, Twelfth Night, and Rosencrantz & Guildenstern are Dead. She Loves Me and You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown are both delightful. I also tend to enjoy darker comedies, like Little Shop of Horrors, Urinetown, and Sweeney Todd (although that’s more dark than comedy). I tend to be indecisive…can’t you tell?

LA: Sum up Barefoot in the Park in 3 words?

BV: Love. Hilarity. Knichi.

LA: Please tell us a little bit about yourself?

BV: I’m 25 years old, currently residing in Minnetonka, MN. I graduated from Bethel University where I studied Media Communications and Theatre. I now work as a Box Office Representative at the Chanhassen Dinner Theatre. I had knee surgery to repair a torn meniscus in November. My favorite color is orange. My car’s name is Ridley. My favorite Muppets are Animal and Beaker. And it’s been a lifelong dream of mine to swim with dolphins. (Don’t judge.)

Cast List

Tracy Turnblad: Lisa Hanson

Edna Turnblad:  Christopher Teipner

Wilbur Turnblad: Scott Dutton

Motormouth Maybelle: Angela Henderson

Amber Von Tussle: Nykeigh Larson

Velma Von Tussle: Sarah Frazier

Link Larkin: Jarome Smith

Seaweed J. Stubbs: Maurice Britts

Little Inez: Marly Ritchie

Corny Collins: Brad Kallhoff

Penny Pingleton: Hannah Weinberg

Prudy Pingleton: Susan Ritchie

The Dynamites: Uchenna Chukwudi, Jesse McCormick, Tolu Ekisola

Mr. Pinky: John Siracusa Jr.

Council Members:
Tammy: Stephanie Wipf
Fender: James Ehlenz
IQ: Colin Hutchins
Brenda: Jessica Kytor
Sketch: Joshua Palmquist
Shelley: Kayli McIntyre
Lou Ann: Anna Wagner

Other Students:
Gilbert: Xavier Cochran
Stooie: Joseph James

Ensemble:
Emily Picardi
Alyssa Ringdal

LA: What was the first show you were involved with at Lyric Arts and what was your role?

MJH: My first show was Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat. I played: Wailing Girl, Mrs Potiphar, Apache Dancer (understudy), Egyptian, *dance captain and… Gad’s Wife (I am now really marrying the man who played Gad!)

LA: What does Lyric Arts mean to you as a performer?

MJH: As an amateur actor, I get the opportunity to play roles at the professional level quality and in a fabulous theater with other actors in the same position.

LA: Best part about being in a show at Lyric Arts?

MJH: This sounds cheesy but because each run of a show is so long, similar to professional theaters, you truly become like a little family with the people involved. Because I have done quite a few shows here now and have begun to grow quite a large extended family. And I have so much respect for them. They’re all hard workers with professional talent which makes performing so much more exciting and enjoyable.

LA: Talk about your fellow cast members, how do you see their performance developing? Any that you are particularly amazed at?

MJH: I am always impressed with Nykeigh Larson, a little spit-fire! Quick learner and I don’t know if I have seen her make a mistake! I also so appreciate Krista Kemp’s tapping and positive attitude! She is a wonderful teacher! Kerry Fager, my dance partner is an incredibly gifted and I have not yet danced with someone with so much skill and poise, manly poise that is! What a wonderful performer. But Joe Rand, our fellow performer and choreographer is one of the greatest choreographers I have had the pleasure to work with. He is patient, focused, professional, funny and makes even inexperienced dancers appear brilliant and beautifully trained.

LA: Without giving too much away what do you feel are the “wow” elements of the Cabaret Fundraiser?

MJH: Joe Rand OUTDID himself with our choreography! I cannot wait for people to see some of our fun bets and I am also so exited for the brilliant vocals with the help Kristin Gates. It’s really breathtaking.

LA: What three words best describe Lyric Arts?  

MJH: Quality. Educational. Enjoyable.

LA: What would be your dream show that you would love to see produced on the Main Street Stage?

MJH: WEST SIDE STORY!!! Or Mary Poppins

LA: What has been your favorite experience at Lyric Arts?

MJH: I love teaching workshops at Lyric Arts, helping the next generation develop a love for the same place I have grown to love. I also loved being apart of the production of Footloose directed by Matt McNabb. That show was incredible.

LA: Please tell us a little bit about yourself?

MJH: I am 22 years old and a graduate of North Central University and an ordained Children’s Pastor with a Minor in Theater. I am excited to be married to my once onstage husband, Ben Schrade! I am also excited to be teaching workshops all summer for Lyric Arts! My husband and I will be moving to Anoka Cabaret Opening Night!

LA: What was the first show you were involved with at Lyric Arts and what was your role?

KF: I played Benjamin in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.

LA: What does Lyric Arts mean to you as a performer?

KF: Lyric Arts feels like me home.  Because in essence I received my first role in the “outside” theatre world at Lyric Arts, I will always feel like I have a tie to it.

LA: Best part about being in a show at Lyric Arts?

KF: The intimate setting.  I have never performed in a venue like Lyric Arts.  Where else do you not have to worry about where your seat is because there is not a bad seat in the house?  And as a performer, it’s very exhilarating to feed off of audience energy when it’s so close to you while on the stage.

LA: Talk about your fellow cast members, how do you see their performance developing? Any that you are particularly amazed at?

KF:With a much smaller group of performers than I’ve ever worked with in any musical, it’s been great getting to learn from them on a deeper level.  This cast is talented enough that an area of performing for a given individual that might not be a primary strength is still top-notch.  That being said, I don’t think there’s anything Tommy Benson isn’t good at.

LA: Without giving too much away what do you feel are the “wow” elements of the Cabaret Fundraiser?

KF: The variety of the show.  You name it, we do it.  The musical numbers range from quintessential “showy” tunes, to gritty, authentic, heartfelt songs.  Plus the comedic element of our wonderful hosts gives you a break when you’re out of breath from watching all the dancing!

LA: What three words best describe Lyric Arts?

KF: Authentic, intimate style.

LA: What would be your dream show that you would love to see produced on the Main Street Stage?

KF: West Side Story!

LA: What has been your favorite experience at Lyric Arts?

KF: I think I would have to say this Cabaret Fundraiser.  Being surrounded by some of the most talented performers to hit the stage in recent years has helped me grow as a performer.  Also, the content of this year’s show is pretty tough to beat!

LA: Please tell us a little bit about yourself?

KF:I’m a dancer-turned-business-grad-turned-back-to-performer.  I have a full-time job in internet marketing, but like to shake things up a bit by performing onstage.  I have six siblings, and I just became an uncle for the first time – that’s quite exciting.

LA: What was the first show you were involved with at Lyric Arts and what was your role?

KS: I played Teddy in Arsenic and Old Lace in 2011. First play for me in 20 years. Lyric Arts was a great place for my “return to the stage.”

LA: What does Lyric Arts mean to you as a performer?

KS: Lyric Arts is a safe, supportive environment for performers to take risks and reach new heights.

LA: Best part about being in a show at Lyric Arts?

KS: Working in a top-notch facility with brilliant, creative cast and artistic staff. I feel like a pro when I’m working here.

LA: Talk about your fellow cast members, how do you see their performance developing? Any that you are particularly amazed at?

KS: I’m amazed at the talent in all my young cast members. They’re keeping me on my toes!

LA: Without giving too much away what do you feel are the “wow” elements of the Cabaret Fundraiser?

KS: The choreography and dancing are going to wow for sure! I’ve heard some of the solos and duets. This is going to be a VERY impressive show.

LA: What three words best describe Lyric Arts? 

KS: Supportive. Awesome. Engaging.

LA: What would be your dream show that you would love to see produced on the Main Street Stage?

KS: Fiddler on the Roof.

LA: What has been your favorite experience at Lyric Arts?

KS: I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the shows I’ve done at Lyric Arts, but my favorite experience was watching my daughter Hannah in two productions here. Her shows were my introduction to Lyric Arts and it was a joy to see her be so welcomed and supported.

LA: Please tell us a little bit about yourself?

KS: I’m a husband, a father of 7 year old twins Austin and Henry, and 12 year old Hannah. I work as the Director of Business Development at a law firm in St. Paul. I’m chair of Lyric Arts Actors Council and serve on the board at my church. I’m a food truck addict and really need to brew some beer this summer.

LA: What was the first show you were involved with at Lyric Arts and what was your role?

ARJ: I directed one-third of Neil Simon’s Plaza Suite in 2009.

LA: What does Lyric Arts mean to you as a performer?

ARJ: Lyric Arts is such an incredible place because of the people you get to work with.  Working with so many extremely talented artist in such a professional setting has really challenged me to grow as a performer and a director.

LA: Best part about being in a show at Lyric Arts?

ARJ: The quality of what we are able to put on the stage. As both a performer and an audience member, I am always amazed at how great every Lyric Arts production is. And that’s because of the passion that all of the performers and staff bring to every show.

LA: Talk about your fellow cast members, how do you see their performance developing? Any that you are particularly amazed at?

ARJ: The dancing. I have to left feet, so when I see all of these incredible dancers up there, some of whom have very little dance experience, I am in awe. They are working so hard to make everything look so easy.

LA: Without giving too much away what do you feel are the “wow” elements of the Cabaret Fundraiser?

ARJ: There are a couple of big musical numbers that will be unlike anything that’s been seen before on the Lyric Arts Stage.

LA: What three words best describe Lyric Arts?

ARJ: Inspiring, Enchanting, invigorating

LA: What would be your dream show that you would love to see produced on the Main Street Stage?

ARJ: I have always loved the musical Chess and I really think the raked seating at Lyric Arts would give you the opportunity to do something really unique and special with that show in that space.

LA: What has been your favorite experience at Lyric Arts?

ARJ: Emceeing the Cabaret for the last few years has been a blast, but working with Scott Ford on Doubt in 2009 was one of the most meaningful artistic experiences I have ever had.

LA: Please tell us a little bit about yourself?

ARJ: By day I write jokes and make games for the backs of cereal boxes, by night I make jokes and play games with my two adorable daughters and every once and awhile I get the chance to take on the role of “actor”…but mostly I just like hanging out with my kids.

Another Lyric Arts Salute to Broadway Musical We Can’t Afford to Produce performs May 10 and 11. Doors open at 6:00pm, giving patrons time to peruse the silent auction, play games, and enjoy the festivities. At 7:30pm, the curtains open on the Broadway themed show itself. Tickets for Another Lyric Arts Salute to Broadway Musical We Can’t Afford to Produce start at $50 and are $60 for Box Seats and Table Seating.  For complete ticket pricing information call the Box Office at 763-422-1838 or visit www.lyricarts.org.

LA: What was the first show you were involved with at Lyric Arts and what was your role?

KG: My first show with Lyric Arts was All Shook Up!  In the summer of 2010.  It was a crazy ride as I was hired quite late in the show’s production, but it was a fantastic experience!

LA: What does Lyric Arts mean to you as a performer?

KG: Lyric Arts is a great place for me to keep up my skills on the piano and to work with some extremely talented vocalists and musicians.  It’s such a pleasure to sit down, play through a song with a vocalist, and to have them sound just incredible on the first run! 

LA: Best part about being in a show at Lyric Arts?

KG: I love being in shows at Lyric because everyone is so supportive of each other.  Theaters can be very competitive places, but here at Lyric, I most see people who are supportive and truly care for their fellow cast members. 

LA: Talk about your fellow cast members, how do you see their performance developing? Any that you are particularly amazed at?

KG: This will be my second year playing keyboards with “The Off Off Broadway Band” and I couldn’t ask for a better group of musicians to make music with.  I can’t wait to hear what they’ll bring to the performance when we put the vocalists with them! 

LA: Without giving too much away what do you feel are the “wow” elements of the Cabaret Fundraiser?

KG: Sea shells, “relentlessly cheerful” folks, socks, and….well, you’ll just have to see what I’m talking about!

LA: What three words best describe Lyric Arts? 

KG: Experience. Family. Quality.

LA: What would be your dream show that you would love to see produced on the Main Street Stage?

KG: Beauty and the Beast  or West Side Story.  The music for these shows are out of this world and I would LOVE to be a part of either of them!

LA: What has been your favorite experience at Lyric Arts?

KG: It’s so hard to pick, but I have loved working with some of the best talent Lyric has to offer at the last three Cabaret Fundraisers.  Walking into a room full of some of the most talented people that have worked at the theater is pretty inspiring and exciting.  Also, I have worked with some WONDERFUL instrumentalists who give their time and talents to Lyric’s productions.  They make Lyric’s musicals happen!

LA: Please tell us a little bit about yourself?

KG: I’m a music educator and free-lance horn player who will be leaving the great state of Minnesota this August to pursue a Doctorate in Musical Arts in Horn Performance!  Wherever the winds take me when I’m finished, I can only hope to find myself back here, near to the theater that pushed me as a musician and educator and helped me make some fantastic music!  In my non-theater, non-musical life, I enjoy reading, cooking and eating, and all things science fiction and fantasy!

LA: What was the first show you were involved with at Lyric Arts and what was your role?

KK: My very first show with Lyric was My Fair Lady and I was in the chorus- still one of my favorite theater experiences to date- such a talented and fun cast and production crew to work with!

LA: What does Lyric Arts mean to you as a performer?

KK: My family currently lives (and plan on staying) in the north-western suburbs so having such a quality community theater close to my home with SO MANY opportunities is pretty priceless- not just as a performer but also as an audience member. 

LA: Best part about being in a show at Lyric Arts?

KK: I would say the people/atmosphere- even if it does sound a little cheesy!  I think Lyric is the perfect combination of people wanting to be a part of something fantastic, but also have a great time- the cast learns their material, the production crew builds beautiful sets/ lights/ costumes/ staging/ dances, etc, and the staff packs the house- but we all have a grand old time doing it!

LA: Talk about your fellow cast members, how do you see their performance developing? Any that you are particularly amazed at?

KK: So many great talents in this production- and the most fun is that I only knew a few people before we started.  I would say that everyone is doing a bang up job of learning the songs and dances- it’s hard to choose a stand out but I’m really looking forward to watching Molly Jo Hall and Kerry Fager perform their numbers.  And Laura Bidgood’s script?!?- well that’s just magic right there!

LA: Without giving too much away what do you feel are the “wow” elements of the Cabaret Fundraiser?

KK: So many!  So many secrets!  I think the combination of songs and the hilarious script really make for a treat of a night out.  I think the audience will be blown away by all the dancing- I can’t even believe we’re capable of all of the moves Joe Rand has somehow convinced us to do!

LA: What three words best describe Lyric Arts?

KK: Exciting, Quality, Classy

LA: What would be your dream show that you would love to see produced on the Main Street Stage?

KK: Chicago!!! (Please!!!)

LA: What has been your favorite experience at Lyric Arts?

KK: Two winter shows ago, I was lucky enough to be a part of the wonderful cast of ‘White Christmas’ and it really was a dream for me- I grew up loving the movie, then fell in LOVE with the stage version, and was so honored to be a part of it with such wonderful people.

LA: Please tell us a little bit about yourself?

KK: My wonderful husband and I are new parents to our beautiful daughter Kate- still trying to figure it all out- so that takes up most of our time these days.  We love to travel and visit family and friends as often as we can.  By day, I work as a paralegal with a family law firm in Minneapolis.