Sunday, September 25, 2011

Spotlight On...Corey Boardman

Name: Corey Boardman

Hometown: Milwaukee, WI

Education: Actually, I went right into working after high school.

Select Credits: Off Bway: Amory in Academy, Gabe/Henry US in Next to Normal, Matthew in Altar Boyz

Why theater?: I love how theatre is able to captivate people and help them escape reality for a couple hours and maybe change the way they think about something. We make people happy.

Tell us about Outlaws: Outlaws is the untold story of Billy the Kid and how his actual life may not have been what was portrayed by the papers and dime novels of the day. Sounds familiar with what celebs go through today, right? I feel like it's just about kids navigating into adulthood and all the different life experiences that includes - sex, drugs, violence, responsibility, power - It's a rock show, and that's the perfect music for those sorts of things.

What is it like to be a part of Outlaws?: It has been awesome. There's nothing like helping to originate a role with a show and everyone involved is so talented and giving. I've been really lucky with that sort of thing with shows so far.

What kind of theater speaks to you?
What or who inspires you as artists?: Sometimes I'm surprised by the shows I connect with but I respect talent along with hard work and creativity a great deal, so that usually has a lot to do with me enjoying something. I'm a big people watcher/observer and this is a great city for that. I also watch a ton of movies. Also, I'm inspired by other established actors, writers, directors, etc. It's so important to learn from others you respect, and since I didn't go to college - learning on the job has been a huge thing for me.

Any roles you’re dying to play?: Houdini. I know there is already some theatre, tv, and film stuff all in development at the moment, but he is someone who I've always connected with. Also, if Ben Folds ever gets his ass around to writing a show - anything in that.

What’s your favorite show tune?: At this point - prolly "I am the One" from N2N. That 10 or 15 minutes of that show I think is some of the tightest theatre ever devised. I was very lucky to work on that show.

If you could work with anyone you’ve yet to work with, who would it be?: Hugh Jackman. Even though he'd tower over me - I've heard he's nice as can be and I really respect his career path.

Who would play you in a movie about yourself and what would it be called?: Hopefully Shia Lebeouf would do it, cause with his track record you know that thing'll make some cash money. As far as what it would be called... I don't know - I'm just an actor. I think you may be asking too much of me to come up with the perfect movie title... alright, fine - "Star Wars" - That's never been the name of a movie, right?

What show have you recommended to your friends?: Jersey Boys - I have seen it more than anything else, I have a bunch of friends in it, everybody loves it, and I hear they're hurting for an audience soooo... perfect choice.

What’s up next?: After I finish up with Outlaws at NYMF, I have a month off and then I start rehearsals for Carrie at the Lortel Theatre for it's much awaited Off Bway run. I'm telling you, by the sound and looks of the stuff I've done in the readings so far - this show is gonna be stunning.