The Work of a Lifetime

I came to New York in 1971 to be the next Julie Andrews. Bringing dreams, energy and naiveté, four months later I was cast in the chorus of a new Alan Jay Lerner (& John Barry) production, Lolita, My Love. It promptly closed in Boston during out of town tryouts, archived as a notoriously famous flop. But, Boy! Did I learn!  I got an Equity card, lots of friends and connections, the all important first professional theatre credit, and found a new direction - to be me.

The 70’s evolved into a lively, if unofficial, work-study life style. While performing in ensembles on Broadway and in National tours, I was assigned understudy roles. Days were filled with lessons in acting, voice, and dance. Nights were filled with working and watching. Best education ever. I got an agent and began to book. In 1977, I landed the title role in the 2nd National (read Bus & Truck) of Irene. (Backstory: My Broadway debut was in the chorus of Irene (1973) starring Debbie Reynolds. There I was - working and watching!) In 1979, I was cast opposite Dick Van Dyke in a National Tour of the The Music Man headed for Broadway.

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The 80’s expanded my work opportunities bringing industry recognition & honors. Among them: a Theatre World Award (The Music Man) , a Tony Award Nomination (Brigadoon revival), CableACE Award Nomination (Camelot with Richard Harris). My “Worked With…” list grew to include luminaries and respected practitioners in both Creative Teams and Production teams. A remarkable and rich education.

The 90’s began with new work and travel. By mid ‘90’s delightfully chaotic “mommydom” prompted a hiatus. And lo! A new direction. Went back school. Earned a couple degrees, certifications. The decade ended as I began to walk the Tightrope of Balance – with parallel careers - actor and educator.

The 2000’s I started in a full time position at NYU and entered a new casting category - the wise elder who sings! Played marvelous roles around the country: The Mother Abbess (many times), Mrs. Paroo, Mrs. Pearce, Nellie Fowler, Florence Foster Jenkins.

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