The hip and fun musical [title of show] comes to the Herberger Theater in Phoenix on Feb. 18, but I had the opportunity to interview one of its super-cool and über-talented actors before opening night: Lauren Lebowitz.
[title of show]—yes, that’s really the title and not a typo—is a musical about two hyper-talented thirtysomething songwriters in New York trying to write a new musical about two hyper-talented thirtysomething songwriters trying to write a new musical. In New York.
Are you following me, Camera Guy?
In a nutshell, it’s a smart and endearing Cinderella tale about making it big in showbiz. It absolutely wowed Broadway critics and audiences last Fall, and we’re very lucky that the cast makes a stop in Phoenix.
Lauren Lebowitz’s resume, to say the least, is impressive. Just a few of her credits include appearing in last season’s ATC production of HAIR. She’s performed in national tours of FOOTLOOSE and GODSPELL. And she’s also toured with the USO (I’m so jealous!), even entertaining our troops with performances at Bob Hope’s 100th Birthday. Lauren is a graduate of the University of Michigan and the Royal Academy of Music and, if you’ve never heard her belt out a tune, you’re in for a treat. Her voice is as powerful as it is gorgeous. I can’t wait to see her in [title of show]!
Here’s a little bit of my interview with her:
Q: Tell me a little bit about your character in [title of show].
“I play Susan. Along with Jeff, Hunter, and Heidi, we negotiate a musical theatre obstacle course of finding backers, casting singers, and making it to Broadway.  It’s hilarious.”
Q: Sounds fun! What do you like best about [title of show]?

“It’s an endearing musical with universal themes like how it’s important to conquer your insecurities to accomplish your dreams. It’s very motivating and full of energy. The audiences in Tucson, where we’re currently performing, have told us that they’ve left feeling motivated as well as entertained. Come with an open-mind!”
Q: Is the musical appropriate for younger audiences? Like my tween niece?
“There is some mature content, like language and some adult themes. However, the universal theme about not giving up on your dreams would apply to anyone in any age group. Anyone could relate to that message.”
Q: Okay, I see that you’re from New York City. Great time to be in Arizona!
“Yes, it’s nice to be back in Arizona, especially this time of year.”
Q: Besides our gorgeous weather, what else do you like about Phoenix?

“Guacamole! I must eat it five times a week. And Mexican food! I love Mexican food!”
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Hey, I’ll be at [title of show] on Opening Night Feb. 20! You won’t want to miss this one at the Herberger. Hope to see you there! You can purchase tickets at www.arizonatheatre.org or by calling the box office at 602.256.6995. [title of show] will only be here till Mar. 7.
Be there, or be square!