Tuesday, October 7, 2014

Spotlight On...Allison Smith

Name: Allison Smith

Hometown: Waldwick, New Jersey!

Education: New York University College of Arts and Sciences

Select Credits: Mallory O'Brien on "The West Wing",  Annie on Broadway from 1979-1982. In Original Broadway production of Evita on Broadway with Patti Lupone and Mandy Patinkin. Los Angeles premiere production of David Mamet's Oleanna. QED opposite Alan Alda at the Mark Taper Forum. Played Jennie Lowell, Jane Curtin's daughter on the sitcom "Kate & Allie" from 1983-1989

Who do you play in "Weight"?: I play the main character; Claire's, uptight, highly functioning, professional, thin and condescending big sister!

Tell us about "Weight": "Weight" follows the journey of one woman's release back into her real world after she goes on a weight loss reality show, wins and loses 100 pounds.

What is it like being a part of "Weight"?: SO fun!! I love the comedy. I love playing Martha Byrne's antagonizing sister!

What kind of entertainment speaks to you? What or who inspires you as an artist?: Great theatre, and variety show comedy. Great theatre speaks to me. Musical or not. I'm amazed by a Tim Minchin or a Stephen Schwartz. How they translate a story into pieces so moving with melody and time. Also, a great play where people are really working through something. Where sometimes things are so painful you just have to laugh. I also love television. I always have. I'm up for anything; dark comedies, family dramas. I love a good Irish story or playing in a different time period.

Any roles you’re dying to play?: I want a strong, alive character in theatre again. There's nothing like being physically free in that Live space.

What’s your favorite showtune?: I have a soft spot for "The Colors Of My Life" from Barnum, and  for nearly all from The Sound Of Music

If you could work with anyone you’ve yet to work with, who would it be?: A mixture; the great creators of yesterday, and the burgeoning creators of tomorrow.

Who would play you in a movie about yourself and what would it be called?: Shirley MacLaine titled "Life is so full"

What show have you recommended to your friends?: Matilda

What’s the most played song on your iTunes?: Probably everything on John Mayer's last album  " Paradise Valley."

What’s your biggest guilty pleasure?: A quiet space with Chocolate Sorbet and Mary Oliver poetry.

What’s up next?: I'm writing a book of semi autobiographical short stories.