Woman of the Month: Laura Benanti

What's up party peopleee! As January comes to a close I of course bring you all the next woman of the month. This is probably one of my favorite interviews thus far because this woman is....WOW. For all you Theatre geeks out there, this one's for you. I've had the pleasure of seeing Laura Benanti in shows since I was about 9 years old. The show was Gyspy, starring the lovely Patti Lupone with Laura as the iconic role: Gypsy Rose Lee. I vividly remember watching her take the stage with such ease and having the ability to bring an entire room to complete silence in her vulnerable moments. It was the first time I had ever cried during a show because I felt the characters emotion. By curtain call, I had made the decision to be an actor. Of course she went on to win a Tony for this role, not at all shocking. Benanti is one of Broadway's best. Making her debut at age 18 (WHAT), in the revival of Sound of Music. She then went on to star in Broadway shows such as Swing, Into the Woods, Nine, Gypsy, Women On The Verge of a Nervous Breakdown, and She Loves Me, to name a few. She is currently starring as Eliza Doolittle in My Fair Lady at Lincoln Center (Ugh, so good). Benanti has had a career that most women in Theatre only dream of. But my admiration for her goes far beyond her artistic endeavors. It's her character and heart that make so many of us young women look up to her. She has made it her sole duty to lead with love and support for the women around her as well as the people around her. And has continued to use her platform and voice for good. I can't tell you how important it is in our day and age to have women extending hands and supporting each other. So without further ado, I give you my interview with Broadway's Laura Benanti! Woohoooo!

Q: You've been in this business for over 20 years, what are some things you've learned over time in regards to the importance of women learning to support other women?

A: There is truly nothing more important. As girls, we are often taught that other girls are competition. That there is scarcity. The truth is, there will be abundance if WE are abundant. If we are our fullest selves and encourage others to do the same.

Q: You have this amazing ability to have a balance between staying "in the loop" of politics as well as evolving as an artist. In the midst of the current political climate and the ever changing world of Theatre, what are some things female artists can do to advance the world around them as well as Theatre?

A: I am a big believer in trying to positively effect my immediate area and those around me. That starts with my family and friends and ripples out as far as my energy will allow it. I try to keep myself informed, and to choose a cause (or 2) to really devote myself to. I also believe that small acts of kindness during the day towards people we come into contact with is contagious.

Q: What is one crucial piece of advice that you can give aspiring female performers that you wish you could've given yourself as a young artist?

A: Don’t ever try to be what you think other people want. Be yourself!

Q: Where do you get your sense of humor from? and HOW in God's name do you still look like you're 25? (Are you an alien)

A: Ha! my mother has always had this wonderful sense of humor and taught me to find the light in most things. I believe I actually look younger than I did 10 years ago because I’m happier!!

Thanks to Laura for the interview and for being a pal. Please please PLEASE follow her on social media if you can, she has some pretty amazing stuff to say. AND if you're in NYC, RUN to go see her in My Fair Lady! Stay tuned for more updates soon!