by Lorie Lewis Ham
Fresno Lexus Broadway in Fresno is presenting SIX at the Saroyan in Fresno April 1-6. Recently, KRL had the opportunity to interview cast/crew member Kelly Denice Taylor who plays one of the Queens, Jane Seymour.
KRL: Where are you from?
Kelly: I was born in Los Angeles, CA but spent the majority of my formative years in Vallejo, California. So I like to say I’m from California, and raised in the Bay Area!
KRL: When did you first become interested in acting?
Kelly: I always loved and knew I wanted to be a performer and singer since I was a young fan of The Cheetah Girls on Disney Channel. However, I didn’t find a love for acting until High School! I tried out for my schools Spring Musical Thoroughly Modern Millie and was cast! I remember realizing that being on stage is what truly lit me up and that I wanted to feel that way for the rest of my life.
The North American Tour Boleyn Company of SIX. Photo by Joan Marcus
KRL: What was the first role that you ever played?
Kelly: The first role I was ever cast for was the role of Muzzy in High School! The role was so luxurious to me back then, I got to wear t a huge fur coat and sing a sultry jazz ballad. I had so much fun getting out of my comfort zone since I was a very different person than Muzzy in the show!
KRL: What are some of the roles you have played professionally?
Kelly: I did a lot more singing than acting in my career prior to SIX. I sang for Walt Disney Records and as myself in pop shows all over the world. SIX has truly been my ‘big break’ into an acting career. I started with the show as an Understudy and have since been promoted to Jane Seymour full-time. It’s truly mind-blowing and validating to me as I think of moving forward in my career as a theater actress. The role really combines what I feel I do best, being my own pop artist and expressing myself through movement and others’ stories.
KRL: Why did you want to play this role?
Kelly: I remember feeling particularly attached to the SIX studio album when it first came out. I didn’t think a show would ever exist that highlighted not only pop vocalists, but women of color! This show does it so well and I think seeing other women like myself in these roles inspired me to audition. Now that I’ve learned about the history of the wives, I feel even more of an attachment to their stories.
KRL: Can you share a little bit about the character for those not familiar with the show?
Kelly: Jane Seymour is Henry’s third wife notably known as the only queen Henry ‘truly loved’. She gave Henry his long sought-after heir, Edward. However, Jane’s life and marriage were short-lived as she passed away shortly after creating her dream life with Henry. Jane was known for being charming and lovely and is portrayed in the show just the same!
KRL: Were you a fan of the show before you were cast?
Kelly: Absolutely! Most everyone in the cast had a ‘phase’ with SIX before being in it. I’ve been in love with the costumes and music since its debut on the west end!
KRL: What do you like best about playing this role?
Kelly: The role is a lot of fun but I mostly love being a QUEEN! Wearing the costumes and having confetti rain down on me each night is a dream come true.
The North American Tour Boleyn Company of SIX. Photo by Joan Marcus
KRL: What has been the biggest challenge in playing this role?
Kelly: I’ve definitely had a lot of moments of doubt in myself in this show. Not only am I stretching my comfort zone vocally by having to tackle such a heart-breaking power ballad every night, but we’re also touring the country! It can be difficult keeping up with my personal/work life balance at times.
KRL: What have you done to prepare for this role?
Kelly: I don’t consider myself to be someone who was “trained” to sing and act. I didn’t finish a degree or have many moments of formal training to become the performer I am today. The time I’ve spent training for the role has been happening in real-time for me. I’m learning more about my voice and body every day! I’m much more physically active and taking better care of myself. Sometimes preparing for a role simply means putting your self-care and mental health first. Telling these stories night after night can take a toll on your health in many ways if there aren’t boundaries set in place.
KRL: What do you like best about this show?
Kelly: I think the show is so so clever and funny! I feel like you can watch the show so many times and still learn something new or catch a new joke every time. The script and score are so well-crafted.
KRL: What is a typical day like for you while in this touring show?
Kelly: Typically, I’ll wake up around 10am and head to a workout class! I take about 3-4 classes a week and like to give myself lots of time to get ready for a day before I start. What happens throughout the day varies widely depending on where we are in the world and my energy level. Some days are sleep-in days and others I want to be outside all day exploring new shops and areas. I also like to give myself a few adulting hours just to take care of things like laundry or paperwork. Then I’ll usually find something to eat before the show and get to the theater early to prep. My makeup and warm-up process take about an hour and then before I know it, we’re onstage! Then post-show is my time to exist guilt-free knowing I used the prior hours productively. I like to have some snacks and just relax to some reality tv or game shows then head to bed around 11 pm!
Tickets for SIX are available at BroadwayinFresno.com, in person at the Fresno Entertainment and Convention Center Box Office, or by calling 800.745.3000. It will be performed at Saroyan Theatre, 730 M Street Fresno, CA.
Check out more local entertainment articles in our Arts & Entertainment section. And don’t miss out on Mysteryrat’s Maze Podcast where we feature mystery stories read by local actors!
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