Thursday, July 21, 2016

Spotlight On...Lizzie Klemperer

Name: Lizzie Klemperer

Hometown: Syracuse NY

Education:  University of Michigan Musical Theater Program

Select Credits: Bright Star (Broadway), The Addams Family, A Christmas Story (tour), Marian in The Music Man, Eponine in Les Mis

Why theater?: My parents are both professional musicians. My dad plays the violin and mom is an operatic soprano. Both perform and teach in Syracuse New York. I was completely surrounded by classical music growing up and around age 8 joined the children's chorusin Syracuse and soon started doing community theater. Music has always been the way I was able to express a little bit of my soul.

Who do you play in Lisa and Leonardo?:  I play Lisa del Giocondo, the woman who inspired Leonardo Divinci to create The Mona Lisa.

Tell us about Lisa and Leonardo?: The backdrop of this musical is incredibly interesting and dynamic. We are in the middle of a war and at the same time there is an artistic Renaissance happening. The show takes a bit of history and unpacks what the individuals involved may have been thinking/feeling.

What is it like being a part of Lisa and Leonardo?: As an actor, It is such a treat to work on new material. We are in the room with the writers and they have been so generous with improving the material continually to make sure the story is clear and concise and each character's journey makes sense.

What kind of theater speaks to you? What or who inspires you as an artist?: Every day life! I go to the theater to feel things. I like any theater that is honest and depicts what it is to be human.

Any roles you’re dying to play?: Louise in Gypsy, Dot in Sunday in the Park, Eliza Dolittle in My Fair Lady

What’s your favorite show tune?: "What's the Use of Wondrin" from Carousel

If you could work with anyone you’ve yet to work with, who would it be?: Tough question! Maybe Carol Burnett. I have always loved her.

Who would play you in a movie about yourself and what would it be called?: Vanessa Hudgens (because it's a musical, duh) and it's called "Resting Bitch Face" or the PG option... "Girl Uninterrupted"

If you could go back in time and see any play or musical you missed, what would it be?: The original A Chorus Line

What show have you recommended to your friends?: I have a lot of shows I still need to see but this season I did see She Loves Me and The Humans and loved both

What’s your biggest guilty pleasure?: The Bachlorette 😳

What’s up next?: Planning a wedding and then getting married! I just got engaged 3 weeks ago!