Spring is here!
Comments(12) Yes..spring has sprung. Even though it was 42 degrees yesterday I walked to work with a smile because it was the first day of Spring…I love spring..full of hope, new beginnings…sunshine, flowers..and a 3rd Company of Jersey Boys!!!!! I was thinking what a great day it must have been yesterday for a number of people. The creative staff and casting directors put out their calls to their choices for the next Jersey Boys company. I remember how excited I was.
I was actually working at Miceli’s, an Italian singing restaurant..across the street from Universal Studios. I loved the singing part, but hated refilling peoples drinks…Bad waitress…and upset when my tips were bad after I had sung my heart out…Anyway I overheard one of the young waitresses, Janine, say she had a callback for Jersey Boys in La Jolla…and I thought I didn’t even get an audition. So I called my agent, he called the casting people in LA, who didn’t know me, they faxed all the girls scenes (which were different than now) and asked me to choose any of the girls parts and prepare it. Some how Mary Delgado resonated with me…Which is ironic considering I have Catholic children’s videos out there…but that’s what “acting” is all about…So I went in, sang my song and did the scenes. They couldn’t have been sweeter and said “Do exactly what you just did and come back at 5pm for Des and Ron Melrose..”
Well I did Big River with Des years before and I had met Ron before. I came back and they were so warm. That’s the thing about Des, he sets up such a welcoming, playground to play in and just is smiling and open to what you’re doing up there. We chatted a bit after and I left. An hour later I get a call to come back at 10 am the next day for the same crew and Frankie Valli. He was awesome too.. It had to be the easiest audition, in that there was no time for worrying or over-preparing…just jumping in. They said they had to return to NY one more time…but within a week I heard that phone ring saying I had the role. I was actually in Barnes and Nobles in the theatre section in Pasadena sipping my decaf. I cried.
I have never originated a role. And than to be brought back to NY where my schooling at NYU Grad Acting Program sprung…record the CD two weeks into the rehearsal process, perform on all the TV shows, and the Tony’s, win the Tony, win the Grammy…just to be a part of this. I know I’m blessed and consider it a miracle each time I get cast…So I feel the excitement of this new cast and the joy the San Fran company felt as they got to perform on Jay Leno Monday night. Congratulations to all of you..and thank you for everyone who pays such hard earned money to keep us doing what we love to do…
And another thing…I hate to know who’s in the audience till at least Act 2…but as I was making my entrance at the start of the show…I see Des bringing in Martin Scorsese through the back way…and Des says “Now there’s a real director!” and last night Susan Stroman came to our show…and I had the pleasure of meeting her too. She is a doll…so generous and full of life…and joy.
It’s so amazing to hear about your journey, Jennifer!
And Matin Scorsese, wow. That must have been a thrill.
I love hearing how you earned a role in a hit show in a short amount of time. What an awesome story.
I hope to be in the audience soon!
-A
Hi Devon
Thanks for writing. So good to hear from you.Yes it’s been an amazing journey…I’m so thankful..xo Jennifer
HI A
Yes it was a great experience. Hope to see you real soon..xo jennifer
Hey Jennifer,
As one who has contributed much money to the show, I think I speak on behalf of all JB fans when I say, it was worth every penny. Those hours in the rush line, the weather at the stage door… it is all part of the experience!
~Hilary
PS: I bet the other waitress semi regrets mentioning that call back now in hindsight… haha! Des and the others made the right decision though!
Hilary,
Thank you. That was very sweet…I’m thankful..I’m not sure about the other girl…
Hi Jen!! Awwww!! What an exciting experience for you!! You are so FANTASIC playing Mary!!! I really enjoy it! Also, I agree with Hilary every penny is worth it to this show!! Its amazing!
Great job
Lori
PS-Martin Scorsese!!!??? Wow that is so awesome! Cool experience!!! I love his movies! Especially The DEPARTED!!
Hi Lori,
Thank you so much. I love playing Mary and the other little roles too. Thanks for spending the money to support us…cuz we wouldn’t have jobs without you…This week Aretha Franklin is coming!!!!!!!!RESPECT…I can’t wait to meet her.
I love how you totally get as excited as all of us for these people visiting the show! I minorly spazzed when Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones were there. Who else has been there when I have… Henry Winkler… oh and Frankie Valli! HAHA!
Hey Jennifer
You were a singing waitress?That is awesome I would have given you a very good tip if you were my waitress because your voice is phenomonal.So cool that Martin Scorsese was there.I agree with everyone spending money on this show is worth every penny you guys are truly just an amazing cast.The only time there was a celebrity in the audience was when I went on Jan.19 and Megan Mullally was sitting right in back of us!She was so nice.Talk to you soon :0)
Hi Hilary,
Yes I do get excited. Last night we spotted Selma Hayek in the 2nd row. She is gorgeous. At the curtain call, Sara Schmidt and I glanced at each other after we both simultaneously spotted her and gasped “Holy Cow”…so much prettier than on film…and she’s beautiful on film.
Hi Christina,
Thanks for the tip in advance! Yes we all met Megan Mullaly. She started on stage…she’s very funny. I love when celebrities come and especially if they come back stage. It’s been a whirlwind of people. I too get star struck..and it keeps us on our toes!