Tony Time!

Check out this Tony-centric Blog by monthly Blog Contributor  Gretchen Bieber!

Tony Time

Growing up, I loved awards shows. I would watch The Golden Globes, The Emmy’s, The Grammy’s, and The Oscar’s until every grateful tear had been shed. But let’s be honest, I only watched for the gowns, shoes, and hair… And a glimpse of Leonardo DiCaprio.

It wasn’t until I saw my first televised Tony Awards in 1997 (I know… How had I missed it until then!?!) that I found my personal Mecca: theatre, production numbers AND black tie formal wear!?! That’s right, friends… It’s Tony season!!!! The nominations are out. Some disappointing snubs (cough…Bridges…cough…Steven Pasquale…) but some exciting thrills for the “underdog” as well (A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder was pure JOY). I cannot even imagine what being nominated must feel like regardless of actually winning.  I just hope each show does well enough so that everything continues to shine bright and sell tickets. I’m sure the nominees are getting all sorts of excited about who they’re going to wear on June 8th as well as what kind of ‘do will fit under their show wig for performance time! Speaking of wigs… This New York Times article showing off some of the intricacies of the latest wigs on Broadway was outstanding! Give it a read if you haven’t yet:

Question: Why is there no Tony award for best Hair (wig) and Makeup design? It makes no sense to me especially after reading that article. I understand that occasionally someone might win a “special” Tony award for it, but I think it would be a lovely, annual addition. I also feel quite strongly that there should be a Tony Award for Musical Direction. There are some wonderfully talented, baton wielding people who deserve the accolades. (steps off the soapbox)

We all need to remember that the Tony Award broadcast is a win for our industry. We shouldn’t dwell on who takes home the award or doesn’t. It’s an opportunity for all of America (and abroad thanks to the internet!) to get a glimpse into what we are so passionate about. Art and Entertainment. Be sure to tune in to Roma Torre, Frank DiLella, and your favorite Broadway actors on the NY1 red carpet to see what everyone is wearing! And if you find yourself in a last minute bind, be sure to check out Rent the Runway https:// http://www.renttherunway.com/how_it_works for all of your dress and accessory needs! (sorry gentlemen…)

Gretchen Bieber is a monthly contributor to The Broadway Warm-Up Blog.  For more info on Gretchen go to: www.facebook.com/stylebygretchen

www.broadwaywarmup.com

The Broadway Warm-Up: A completely synchronized vocal and dance warm-up for performers  that can be completed in under 30 minutes! 

Now Available on DVD!

 

What to Wear To An Audition: The Rules

Ladies in Gentlemen, it is with absolute joy that we introduce our next guest blogger… Gretchen Bieber! Gretchen is one of those multitalented folk who we just marvel at. You’ve seen her performing on Broadway, she’s one of the top hair and make Hair and Makeup Stylists we know and she just so happens to be a Broadway Warm-Up Cast Member.

You can discover more about Gretchen by clicking HERE, but first check out this installation of her blog for The Broadway Warm-Up titled From The Outside Looking In.  Keep an eye out for this monthly segment for fantastic Hair, Makeup and Style tips geared specifically for actors!

From The Outside Looking In: What To Wear To An Audition

Hey! I’m Gretchen. Your friendly Actor/Makeup & Hair Stylist/Broadway Warm-Up Cast Member. As a stylist, having a “good eye” is critical. It’s not really something that can be taught. But it is something that can grow and change and morph into what’s current. As actors, it is our responsibility to also be current and know our product, know our brand. It’s our job to take a critical look at who we are and how we present ourselves in life and in the audition room.

When I first moved to NYC ten years (or so) ago, auditions were different. There were unwritten “rules”. We had black and white headshots, wore dresses with stockings year round (unless auditioning for Rent), and wore our 3 inch Capezio/LaDuca’s when we weren’t even dancing at a Singer Call! I had 3 audition dresses and 3 dance outfits in sensible jewel tones on rotation. Men wore a button down shirt, slacks, and dress shoes. Was it convenient? Absolutely. Was it appropriate? Not so much.

BTW- we do love our La Duca’s!

The new rule is that there is no rule. We just need to find what is flattering to our type and “dress in the world of the play” (as Jen Waldman says). Anything goes as long as it is carefully thought out and on purpose. Do your research! The information is available at our fingertips with the click of a few buttons.

 

Musical Theatre and Broadway have changed. What’s required of the actor has changed. And if we have to be able to belt a high “G” in spanish while dancing on roller skates playing the cello- all while looking fetching in our underwear…Rules are obviously out the window.

Gretchen Bieber is a monthly contributor for:

 The Broadway Warm-Up: A Completely Synchronized Vocal and Dance Warm-Up that can be completed in under 30 minutes! 

www.broadwaywarmup.com

Be Warm