Sunset Boulevard

Role Played

  • Betty Shafer

Experience

I had the honor of playing Betty Shafer in Sunset Boulevard alongside Karen Mason as Norma Desmond and Eric Kunze as Joe Gillis. Betty was my first leading role, and it was the one that allowed me to expand my voice into soprano roles. I really dove into Betty's character and examined her as a person from every angle, allowing myself to truly become my character for the first time ever.

Challenges conquered

  • Expanding Vocal Range to Soprano: Transitioning to soprano roles required rigorous vocal training, stretching my abilities, and pushing the limits of my voice while ensuring it remained healthy and strong.
  • Character Development: Diving deep into Betty Shafer’s character was a challenge that demanded extensive research and emotional exploration. I worked to understand her motivations, fears, and dreams, making her as three-dimensional as possible.
  • Building Chemistry with Co-Stars: Developing a believable dynamic with Karen Mason and Eric Kunze was crucial. We spent countless hours rehearsing, discussing our characters' relationships, and finding ways to authentically portray their interactions on stage.
  • Handling the Pressure of a Leading Role: Being cast in my first leading role brought a new level of responsibility. I focused on balancing the demands of the role with maintaining my well-being, ensuring I could consistently deliver strong performances.
  • Mastering the Music and Choreography: "Sunset Boulevard" is known for its complex score and staging. Learning the music and movement required precise attention to detail and the ability to sync with the ensemble, all while conveying Betty’s story and emotions.