Ryan Bauer-Walsh

Ryan Bauer-Walsh is another rising actor to keep your eyes on! Ryan recently starred in the International Tour of "Zorro" the musical and the 10-time TONY award winning Broadway hit, "Billy Elliot." His other theatrical credits include "Miss Saigon," "Bye Bye Birdie," "Side Show," "Pirates of Penzance," "Girl Crazy," "Measure for Measure," and "7 Brides for 7 Brothers."

As a proud member of the Actor's Union and Actor's Equity, Ryan has performed in such venues as The Kennedy Center, The Edinburgh Fringe Festival, The Shanghai Oriental Arts Center,Joe's Pub,and the internationally celebrated BIRDLAND jazz club. Ryan has sung the Star Spangled Banner at the White Sox home field, and at the internationally televised Chicago Marathon in front of an audience of 50,000. He can be heard on numerous recordings including "Tess the Musical," "Believe," and "Brother Russia."

In addition to performing Ryan is also an author, artist, and community activist. His illustration work and paintings have been used as set projections at The New York City Opera, the Coterie Opera and are also in private collections.

Ryan is currently sailing the sliver seas among Silversea Cruises' "Silver Cloud," where he will premiere his very first Broadway cabaret show.

For more on Ryan be sure to visit http://www.ryanbauer-walsh.com and follow him on his travel blog, "ActorAuthorArtist," where he will detail life on the high seas!

1. Who or what inspired you to become a performer? Well, When I was a kid, I would go to the park and sit on the swings and sing to myself for hours. It was my favorite thing to do. Then, when I was in 5th grade, my mom took me to see the touring production of the Harold Prince revival of SHOW BOAT. It was this revelation to me that people actually sang for a job, and I immediately started pursuing it in a whole new way. I still have the Playbill from that show.

2. Who haven't you worked with that you would like to? There are so many amazing people I would love to work with in this business. I tend to gravitate towards actors and writers who really get into the story telling of a song. I think it would be amazing to work with Bill Finn. He writes such beautiful music in such an honest way. As far as performers, I have always wanted to work with Carolee Carmello. Just listen to her sing "Someone Else's Story" from "Chess." She is indestructible and at the same time incredibly vulnerable. I would like to work with someone like that.  Not to mention, I think her voice is absolutely amazing.

3. What made you want to audition for the Silver Sea Cruises? There were a few things. After I finished doing BILLY ELLIOT in Chicago I found myself really wanting an adventure, and I had this incredible urge to travel and see the world. I wanted to do something that would allow me the chance to travel before I was really settled down. Most of my friends know that I am a big fan of the Law of Attraction - so I turned myself into a divining rod for adventure. Two weeks later I was on a plane to Israel to start rehearsals for the International production of ZORRO that was set to tour 25 cities in China. Unfortunately, the show ended up closing due some unfortunate problems within the first month of opening. So, with my yearlong adventure stunted, I turned myself back to searching for an adventure. A friend had told me about the amazing time his friend was having working with CHOOZI Entertainment, a production company that has a completely new take on cruise ship entertainment.  It is very personal, and really creates a unique experience for each ship. The Silver Cloud ship travels all over Europe in the summer, and then from September to November, I will be circling South America and then heading back to Europe through the Panama Canal. It is the perfect combination of working and traveling the globe. I feel incredibly blessed, and extremely thankful that I have this opportunity.

4. What excites you most about setting sail on the Silver Cloud Ship? Honestly, everything! I will start the cruise in Copenhagen, and continue to destinations I have never been to, or even heard of. Because the Silver Cloud is a smaller luxury liner, it can pull right into smaller ports, giving the passengers a much more intimate connection with each city the ship visits. I am also able to go on excursions with passengers, so this really is going to be an adventure -- and while China would have been really amazing, I am going to circle an entire continent and see a lot of Europe. All the while, I get to sing some amazing music, and dig back into Opera for a while.

5. While on the cruise, you were given the opportunity to create your own cabaret show. How did this come about? Part of this new adventure is creating my own show. On longer excursions there is a need for more shows on the ship. So the entertainers are given the opportunity to create their own Cabaret. It is an amazing opportunity, but a completely new venture for me.

6. How did you decide that the theme would be dedicated to Broadway? How did you decide which songs to include? Since the entertainers have been given so much freedom with their shows, they have the responsibility of creating an evening that showcases what they do best. This is where I decided to put out a general S.O.S to friends in the business, and they helped me with deciding just what that might be. It became clear within a day or two that since I was a New York musical theatre actor it only made sense to create a Broadway standards show. The cabaret chronologically goes from the 1920's to today, showcasing music from each decade along the way. My music director, Mark Hartman, has been an amazing guide in helping me decide what would really work for this kind of venue, and I think we have built something that is really going to be unique, exciting, and a great representation of some of the best loved songs of Broadway.

7. What is your favorite part about putting together a cabaret show? Where is your favorite place to practice on your own? This might sound funny, but honestly; picking out the right keys for the songs. Since some of the songs in my show are originally sung by women ("Easy to be Hard," "Cabaret," etc..) I had to figure out with Mark just where the song would sit best without being abrasively high, or unattractively low. This would often lead to some ridiculous belting that I would only wish on the worst Karaoke Bar. But it was great to find where the money notes could really fly, and personalize the song.

My favorite place to rehearse is always anyone's living room piano. It's always the right temperature, usually there is a cat around for a nice distraction, and it often comes with a nice glass of wine.

8. What have you learned about yourself from being a performer? That's a tough question to answer for a lot of reasons. As actors we are forced to expand and diversify what we do to learn about who we can be and what we can portray, and the industry will tell us what we can't. It is this strange lesson in expansions and contractions. Coloring within the lines of an archetype is a difficult thing to do sometimes because you work so hard to create characters and tell the story right - but sometimes you are just not the right channel for that character's experiences. But if performing has taught me anything, it has taught me this; Always be grateful, even when things aren't going well. Always be vulnerable, even when your skin has to be 10 feet thick- And always be persistent and keep trying, no matter how much easier it would be to sit on the sofa with a carton of ice cream.

9. What's the best advice you've ever received? My voice teacher at The Hartt School, Marishka Wierzbicki, told me "Ryan, just be still, it's okay to be still sometimes". I had a terrible habit of trying too hard in the wrong ways, and was wondering why I wasn't able to really be conveying ideas the way I wanted. She had me stand on a 1 square foot tile for an entire semester of voice lessons, and I wasn't allowed to go outside of that tile till each lesson was over. I learned more in that semester about performing, and life than in the 6 years of performing I had done prior to it.

10. If you could dream about anyone while you sleep, who would it be? I think it would have to be my Grandmother, Grace Bauer. I have so much to ask her, and so much to tell her. I was only 10 when she passed away, and I never knew her as an adult, and I think about her a lot. I wonder if she is proud of me. I wonder what stories she had to tell me that I will never get to hear. A grandmother's perspective on things is always invaluable.

BONUS QUESTIONS:

11. Favorite way to spend your day off? Painting! I love to get out my easel and spend hours painting in front of my big sunny windows in Hamilton Heights. I turn on some Eva Cassidy and, and just get to play and spend a few hours imagining new worlds and landscapes in color and light.

12. Favorite way to stay in shape? I recently became "One of THOSE people" -- I am in my 3rd month of being Gluten free. Honestly, it has changed my life in such a wonderful way. I have more energy, and my body is naturally more in shape than it ever has been. Beyond that - Dance classes! You have all these exercise programs targeting 'muscle confusion' on the market...Just take Tap, Jazz and Ballet a few times a week and your body will be in amazing shape.

13. Boxers or Briefs? Briefs. Always. Have you seen my jeans? Boxers wouldn't stand a chance. Ha!

14. If you could have any super power, which one would you choose? Telepathy; the power to communicate thoughts and read minds. Isn't real empathy every actor's goal?

2012 Cast of Naked Boys Singing!

Photo Credit: Time Out Magazine Photo shoot"Call Me Adam" is stripping down and getting naked with the original cast of the new production of the all-male revue "Naked Boys Singing!" I was fortunate enough to get to the core of these talented and sexy boys as they opened up about their attraction to the show, their inspirations, and other naked performances.

Earlier this month, I was also lucky to attend the opening night of this fun new production of "Naked Boys Singing!" While the boys are beautiful to look at, I found myself more swept away by their talent (and I don't mean that one, though those were nice as well)! The talent I'm talking about is their vocal quality. They all easily took their songs to a new levels. "Naked Boys Singing!" is a very light-hearted show, but each one of the boys brought something extra to add some substance to their performance!

Starring Ryan Obermeir, Seph Stanek, Jon-Paul Mateo, Ricky Schroeder, David (Bryant) San Angelo, Christopher Trepinski, this new production of "Naked Boys Singing!" is produced and directed by Michael and Tom D'Angora. What makes Tom and Michael such great directors and producers is that they have real eye for talent. Since they cast the show, the boys they found could really deliver both vocally and acting wise. 

"Naked Boys Sining!" is the perfect way to start or end your evening. It will raise you up as you feast your eyes on a group of wonderful performers. "Naked Boys Singing!" plays at the Kirk Theatre in NYC's Theatre Row Complex every Thursday (8pm), Friday (10:30pm), and Saturday (6pm) (410 West 42nd Street, between 9th & 10th Avenue). Click here for tickets and follow the show on Facebook and Twitter!

Photo Credit: Michael D'AngoraRyan Obermeier was most recently seen in "ICONS" Off-Broadway. Ryan is thrilled to be joining the cast of Naked Boys Singing. Ryan played "IQ" in the national tour of "Hairspray" and has performed in many notable regional productions such as "Debbie Does Dallas: The Musical," "Grease," and "Fame." He has worked as a performer for Norwegian Cruise Line as well as Paramount Parks.

1. Who or what inspired you to become a performer? The show "Rent" inspired me to get into musical theater but the Backstreet Boys inspired me to be a singer way before that! And of course my biggest inspiration of all Britney Spears!

2. Who haven't you worked with that you would like to? I would really love to work with Bernadette Peters or any of the Broadway royalty!

3. What attracted you to this production of "Naked Boys Singing!"? It was just another chance to get up and perform in front of New York City!

4. What excites you about working together? I am excited to form bonds and get new experiences with the new guys as we start this production.

5. What have you learned from working with Tom and Michael D'Angora? I have definitely learned a lot but I think the thing that I have learned most is how to really be funny. They have taught me that I shouldn't care what anyone else thinks and just go for it!

6. What do you hope audiences come away with after seeing this production of "Naked Boys Singing!"? I really just hope that they have a good time. It is not just about being naked, there is so much more to it than that.

7. If you could have any performer, star alongside you in this production of "Naked Boys Singing," who would you choose? Well I know I would not mind if Nick Lachey or Cam Gigandet were singing naked to me every night!

8. What have you learned about yourself from being a performer? I have learned to be thankful to get to do what I love. I am thankful that people enjoy seeing theater as much as I enjoy doing it!

9. What's the best advice you've ever received? The best advice I have ever received is to live every day to the fullest because I am never guaranteed a tomorrow. And of course to wear condoms haha!

10. If you could dream about anyone while you sleep, who would it be? I would dream about myself making it big. In fact sometimes I do!

BONUS QUESTIONS:

11. If you could have any super power, which one would you choose? I would definitely choose invisibility. You can use you imagination as to why!

12. Favorite way to stay in shape? Well although I spend a lot of time there, it aint' the gym ;-)

13. Boxers or Briefs? Briefs or boxer briefs.

14. How old were you when you had your first kiss? With a girl I was definitely in elementary school. But I think about 14 with a guy.

15. What's the most unusual place you've ever had sex? Take your pick...on the roof of my building in the rain, in the woods against a tree, in a stairwell, on a pool table. And the list goes on and on.

16. Besides the stage, where else have you performed naked? In the shower and I am sure too many parties to mention haha!

Photo Credit: Michael D'Angora

Seph Stanek The "lovable and very charming" (NY Times) Seph Stanek is a brand-spanking-new addition to the Naked Boys Singing family. Most recently he has been seen in the Metropolitan Opera Company's celebrated production of "Aida." Seph's other theatrical credits include: "Little House on the Ferry," "8Minute Musicals," "Naughty/Nice," "Christmastime! (with Debbie Reynolds)," "The Twelve Irish Tenors (International)," "La Traviata, Les Contes d'Hoffmann (Belle ile-en-mer, France)," and many treasured collaborations with Broadway Cares. On television, Seph has been in "Boardwalk Empire" and "Mildred Pierce." He has also performed in concerts at such NYC treasures as Carnegie Hall, and Lincoln Center's Avery Fisher Hall. For more on Seph check out http://www.SephStanek.com.

1. Who or what inspired you to become a performer? I'm proud to say that the first performer that ever inspired me was my mother, Jeanne. She was our church congregation's soloist every Sunday at 7:30am mass. I loved tagging along with her to rehearsals and seeing the final product every week in church. Being able to witness the entire process of what a performer goes through really showed me that being a performer takes dedication, and I'm so lucky to have been introduced to it at such an early age.

2. Who haven't you worked with that you would like to? I would KILL to work with Renee Fleming, the world's best soprano, but I'm afraid I'd keel over and die at the very news of such an occurrence and never make it to our first rehearsal.

3. What attracted you to this production of "Naked Boys Singing!"? Naked Boys Singing! is a staple of New York theatre, with such a rich, fun history that goes all the way back to performances in the Village. It's an honor to be on the forefront of the next step in this show's exciting life.

4. What excites you about working together? Each of the boys in the cast has a very unique personality, and together we make quite an unstoppable team. Complimenting my fellow castmates and goofing around with them is a pleasure in rehearsal!

5. What do you hope audiences come away with after seeing this production of "Naked Boys Singing!"? I want audiences to leave talking about my package. No no, not THAT package, silly! My performing package, comprised of my acting, singing, and movement abilities. Get your mind out of the gutter.

6. If you could have any performer, star alongside you in this production of "Naked Boys Singing," who would you choose? I'd love to have Gary Coleman as a part of the cast...he'd make my...muscles...look huge.

7. What's the best advice you've ever received? Debbie Reynolds once told me, "Honey, you can work, or you can have a career." These are wise words that have shaped a ton of my decisions.

8. If you could dream about anyone while you sleep, who would it be? If I could dream of a world where everything and everyone was Meryl Streep, I'd never want to wake up.

9. Favorite way to stay in shape? I do a lot of weight-lifting in the gym, yoga sessions as often as possible, and eat as many calories as humanly possible.

10. Boxers or Briefs? I'm definitely a briefs man...I love it tight and secured.

BONUS QUESTION:

11. Besides the stage, where else have you performed naked? The last time I performed naked was in my mother's womb...She says my high kicks deserved a Tony.

Photo Credit: Michael D'Angora

Jon-Paul Mateo is thrilled to be on stage naked!! Jon-Paul's Broadway credits include "All About Me," "The Wedding Singer," adn "Hot Feet." Regionaly, Jon-Paul has been seen in "West Side Story," "La Cage Aux Folles," and "Tarzan." He starred in the "I Am Legend" and has sang, danced, and choreographed for companies such as Disney World, Universal japan, Norwegian, Princess, and Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines. Jon-Paul was also a soloist at the Moulin Rouge in Paris, France.

1. Who or what inspired you to become a performer? My parents. They were both in the business.

2. Who haven't you worked with that you would like to? Patti LuPone.

3. What attracted you to this production of "Naked Boys Singing!"? It's completely liberating. 

4. What excites you about working together? We genuinely like each other....so that's refreshing.

5. What have you learned from working with Tom and Michael D'Angora? A married couple can have a business together and still maintain a relationship.

6. What do you hope audiences come away with after seeing this production of "Naked Boys Singing!"? Something to go home and dream about (wink wink).

7. If you could have any performer, star alongside you in this production of "Naked Boys Singing," who would you choose? Ricky Martin. I wouldn't mind looking at him naked all night.

8. What have you learned about yourself from being a performer? I know my strengths and weaknesses. I'm not a delusional person.

9. What's the best advice you've ever received? Smile and say hello to EVERYONE even if you don't care for them because you never know when they might be the ones behind the table holding your audition.

10. If you could dream about anyone while you sleep, who would it be? Gerard Butler (from 300) soooo hot!

Photo Credit: Michael D'Angora

Ricky Schroeder is thrilled to be a part of this new production of "Naked Boys Singing" in NYC! Mostly just because it's another excuse to be naked. He was most recently seen in the smash show, "ICONS" both off-broadway and in Provincetown, where he was also the swing for "Naked Boys," but he's happy to do it full time now!

1. Who or what inspired you to become a performer? I got into performing because of my sister. I started dancing at 3 because my sister was doing it and then as soon as I followed her into doing musicals I just fell in love with it.

2. Who haven't you worked with that you would like to? There are so many amazing and talented people that I would love to work with. I would LOVE to work with Audra McDonald because she's just gorgeous in every way. I would LOVE to work with Kelly Clarkson on her first Broadway venture.

3. What attracted you to this production of "Naked Boys Singing!"? It's a fun and hilarious show and working with Tom and Michael is always too much fun to be allowed.

4. What excites you about working together? Everyone in the cast is so sweet and fun to be around. There's a lot of talent on the stage. They're all pretty easy on the eyes too.

5. What have you learned from working with Tom and Michael D'Angora? I've learned to really roll with the punches. You just gotta give the people what they want. Tom and Michael really know how to please an audience and get them excited.

6. What do you hope audiences come away with after seeing this production of "Naked Boys Singing!"? I really hope the audience walks away from the show in 20 times a better mood from when they walked in. The show is just all about fun and heart. These boys are really talented beyond being good looking and naked. If people aren't smiling and laughing as they walk out we haven't done our job.

7. If you could have any performer, star alongside you in this production of "Naked Boys Singing," who would you choose? Jake Gyllenhaal. We'll teach him to sing.

8. What have you learned about yourself from being a performer? You honestly learn a lot about your own insecurities as a performer. You discover your inner crazy and it makes you self aware. You learn how to tell your judgmental voice to shut up and gain a true confidence.

9. What's the best advice you've ever received? Do the work then let it go. You bring something to the table that no one else can.

10. If you could dream about anyone while you sleep, who would it be? I enjoy my dreams where I'm just chilling with Kelly Clarkson.

BONUS QUESTIONS:

11. If you could have any super power, which one would you choose? I think I would love to be a shapeshifter. So many possibilities when you can look like anyone.

12. Favorite way to stay in shape? Dancing, ballet and jazz classes. Keeps you REALLY in shape. Other than that I go to the gym a lot and sometimes do a little yoga.

13. Boxers or Briefs? Briefs!! Duh! Small and tight.

14. How old were you when you had your first kiss? I think I was 12 when some girl came up to me in a bowling alley and kissed me randomly and ruined my first kiss. But my first Real kiss was with a boy at 14.

15. What's the most unusual place you've ever had sex? I'm a pure innocent boy, I don't know what you're talking about!

16. Besides the stage, where else have you performed naked? I'm gonna let you fill in the blanks on that one.

Photo Credit: Michael D'Angora

David (Bryant) San Angelo is ecstatic to be baring it all once again after two seasons of playing "The Naked Maid" in Provincetown, MA. Rather than list his credits, David would like to thank Directors/Producers Tom and Michael D'Angora. Once upon a time, they actually had the audacity to allow him to lip-sync, booty shake, and thrust his pelvis in people’s faces nightly, in "ICONS," to the tune of "Free Your Mind" by EnVogue, all in front of paying audience members. While it is unfortunate that "Free Your Mind" is not in this production (It's a good song), you will all still be treated to pelvic thrusts, booty shakes, nudity and LIVE VOCALS! (Vocalese!)

1. Who or what inspired you to become a performer? Julie Andrews. My mom was always busy so to keep me occupied, she put on "The Sound Of Music" and "Mary Poppins." I'd watch them over and over again.

2. Who haven't you worked with that you would like to? I would die if I could sing and do booty-drops with Beyonce! She's gorgeous and such a fantastic performer.

3. What attracted you to this production of "Naked Boys Singing!"? I was with the production for two summers in Provincetown, Massachusetts. It was a dream.

4. What excites you about working together? I get to sing naked with handsome and talented men! Life is good.

5. What have you learned from working with Tom and Michael D'Angora? Well, I could write a book. They just direct and explain things in a way you can understand! (If you don't know them, you have no idea!) Here is my favorite piece of advice I've gotten from them: DON'T MAKE IT LOOK EASY. It is often said that performing should look easy. Well, if that was the case...everyone would be doing it! Let the audience see you sweat! Let them know you're working hard for them! Liza Minnelli would sing until her lungs were practically on the floor, and she'd get standing ovations! Subtleties be damned, I'm singing with my dick out! Go big or go home.

6. What do you hope audiences come away with after seeing this production of "Naked Boys Singing!"? The ability to forget about their problems and be entertained for an evening. Life is crazy. Take a break and watch grown men sing with their pee-pees out and laugh for a little bit!

7. If you could have any performer, star alongside you in this production of "Naked Boys Singing," who would you choose? Adam Levine from Maroon 5.

8. What have you learned about yourself from being a performer? I can do anything I put my mind to.

9. What's the best advice you've ever received? Make a decision. Don't be so indecisive. You can get yourself out of anything you get yourself into. Thanks Mom.

10. If you could dream about anyone while you sleep, who would it be? An angel...making sure I'm being looked after.

BONUS QUESTIONS:

11. If you could have any super power, which one would you choose? To freeze time so I can get shit done! Life is hectic.

12. Favorite way to stay in shape? Well, I'm not sure if any way is my favorite but I do love to run on the treadmill with Beyonce blazing in my ear! I get funny looks in the gym. 

13. Boxers or Briefs? Briefs. I'm in my 30's. Boxers are for kids. Besides, briefs show just a little bit more, yet still leave something to the imagination. (Unless you buy a ticket to Naked Boys Singing of course!)

14. How old were you when you had your first kiss? Oh lord, I don't know. I reluctantly played a game of "Spin The Bottle" in 7th or 8th grade. It was very uneventful.

15. What's the most unusual place you've ever had sex? Um....What kind of publication is this!?! Somethings remain private!!! I'll show you my penis but let me keep SOMETHING sacred! ;)

16. Besides the stage, where else have you performed naked? In college, I did a production of "Hair" and we got naked at the end of Act I, like you do. It was a production in a student lounge, not a stage. Is that the answer you were looking for?

Christopher Trepinski (Fun pics of or fabulous new Naked Boy coming soon) is a Lawrence, KS native, and is ecstatic to be making his Off-Broadway debut with "Naked Boys Singing!" Having recently danced for Carnival Cruise Lines, his regional credits include: "The Wolf/Cinderella's Prince" ("Into the Woods"), "Frog" ("A Year with Frog and Toad"), and "Gangster #2" ("The Drowsy Chaperone").

1. Who or what inspired you to become a performer? My sister was taking dance classes, and I always aspired to be like her, so I needed them too! Then I saw 'Phantom of the Opera' in third grade and I was sold!

2. Who haven't you worked with that you would like to? Meryl Streep!!! Hands down! I have so much respect and admiration for her skill and grace.

3. What attracted you to this production of "Naked Boys Singing!"? Creatively, I knew it would force me to put aside any insecurities I have for the audience.

4. What excites you about working together? This is such a humble, welcoming group of guys! I'm excited to create great comedy with a truly talented group of guys!

5. What have you learned from working with Tom and Michael D'Angora? Nothing is sacred!

6. What do you hope audiences come away with after seeing this production of "Naked Boys Singing!"? This is definitely a show that presents nudity and scenarios that people are normally afraid to discuss in a safe and comedic way. I hope the audience leaves feeling free from any shame or embarrassment that they may have from these common experiences we have as loving and sexual beings.

7. If you could have any performer, star alongside you in this production of "Naked Boys Singing," who would you choose? HUGH JACKMAN!

8. What have you learned about yourself from being a performer? Echoing what I've learned from Tom D'Angora - nothing is sacred. Whatever insecurity I have, whatever embarrassing situation I've ever found myself in, I know that when exploring different roles I can draw from those, and more importantly, they can never hide.

9. What's the best advice you've ever received? My voice professor in college always told me to sing, "Tits to the wind." I am not doing that to the extreme! That, and while backstage before a concert, Cindy Lauper told Lady Gaga to, "Take no prisoners." It's such a freeing attitude!

10. If you could have any super power, which one would you choose? The Power to Reveal an Outer Manifestation of everyone's Inner Self!

BONUS QUESTIONS:

11. Favorite way to stay in shape? Free weights and dance class!

12. Boxers or Briefs? Briefs or commando!

13. How old were you when you had your first kiss? Kindergarten - it was with a girl. Worked out really well, haha!

14. Besides the stage, where else have you performed naked? Never have!

"Naked Boys Singing! Opening night pictures....

Jon-Paul Mateo, Adam Rothenberg, Seph StanekAdam Rothenberg and Christopher TrepinskiRyan Obermeir, Adam Rothenberg, Ricky Schroeder

Daniel Lincoln: Four Scores...and Seven Shows Ago

A classically trained composer, opera singer, and concert pianist, Daniel Lincoln’s career has spanned from the classical world, to Broadway, to pop. He currently conducts the national concert tour of "The Midtown Men": a 60’s rock review show starring the four original stars of Broadway’s "Jersey Boys." Daniel also teaches at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts and at the New York Film Academy’s Musical Theatre Conservatory, and accompanies Broadway auditions for the New York casting agency Telsey + Company. He will be in London this year promoting the new musical "Wrong Could Be Right," for which he composed the score. As composer/lyricist, other original musicals include: "Savannah: A Jazz Fable," "Reinventing David," and "Queen Bea: A Soapsical"(which premiered starring the cast of ABC’s Daytime Drama, "One Life to Live"). Daniel is also currently composing the songs for, and musically directing the recording of "Photos on the Floor," the debut pop album of singer JWalker.

Promo shot for "Exposed..."Daniel has also become a fixture of New York’s cabaret/nightlife scene and was dubbed a "nightlife icon" in 2010 with successful and long-running shows such as "The Girly Show" (with nightlife personality Justin Van Pelt, aka "Valentine"), "The Broadway Brouhaha" (with renowned nightlife host Brandon Cutrell), and seasonal cabaret series such as "Broadway at the Bistro" (Lively Arts Productions) and "The Stonewall Singalong" (with famed celebrity impersonator Jason Cozmo). 

Next up for Daniel is a musical revue of his music at The Laurie Beechman Theater in NYC on Monday, May 14 at 9:30pm entitled "Four Scores...and Seven Shows Ago," which will feature a wide range of new material from Lincoln’s upcoming musical comedies "Bebe vonBreckenburg’s Beautiful Brooklyn Bridge Bridal Boutique," "Miss Humanity" (lyrics co-written by Michael DiGaetano), "Calixte," as well as some of his stand-alone novelty numbers (even including some of the racier ones that earned him nightlife notoriety in New York’s cabaret circuit).

Proceeds from "Four Scores...and Seven Shows Ago" will benefit Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, The evening will include performances by Broadway’s Brian Cali ("Master Class") and Michelle Dowdy ("Hairspray"), and television personalities Ryan Raftery ("Ugly Betty," "Law and Order: SVU," "Malcolm in the Middle"), and Sasha Weiss (ABC Primetime’s "What Would You Do," "Jerry Springer, The Opera" at Carnegie Hall.)  Also performing are Ricky Schroeder ("Naked Boys Singing"), Anne Frasier Thomas ("The Hunchback of Notre-Dame" - US & International Tours), Kyle Kleiboeker (Nat’l Tours: "Hairspray," "Rent"), MAC and BISTRO Award Winning singer and nightlife personality Brandon Cutrell, Jody Cole Wood, Brittany Marie Arnao, and Dimitri Joseph Moise. 

"Four Scores...and Seven Shows Ago" will play The Laurie Beechman Theater in NYC (407 West 42nd Street, between 9th & 10th Avenue). Tickets are $10 + $15 food/drink minimum). Call 212-695-6909 for tickets!

For more on Daniel be sure to visit http://www.danielmlincoln.com! 

1. Who or what inspired you to become a composer/opera singer/concert pianist? Well, my grandfather was a professional opera singer and my grandmother was a concert pianist, so I guess you could say I didn't have much choice in the matter. But in all seriousness, I remember being a little whipper-snapper watching my grandparents perform...I would see how much joy it brought them, and how much joy they would bring to their audiences, and I would think, "That's magic. I want to do that kind of magic one day."

2. Who haven't you worked with that you would like to? Well, I have two answers to that. I got a chance to work as a music assistant on a production of "Follies" at NY City Center Theater, and so I got to have some interactions with the great Stephen Sondheim (can you say "wow moment?" 'Cause I can...). But if I could get another chance to work on a production with him...and actually work WITH him...that'd be amazing. If Sondheim is disqualified, then I would want to hop into my time machine and hook up with Hal Prince in 1962 and just follow him around through the next forty years. His career includes some of my favorite musicals of all time, like "She Loves Me," "Fiddler," "Cabaret," "Company,"...oh, the list goes on! I'd be in theater dork HEAVEN!

3. What made you want to put together a musical revue of your work? How did you decide to call it "Four Scores...And Seven Shows Ago?" I have always admired the work of Broadway Cares / Equity Fights Aids, and my friends and colleagues have been involved in their events such as Easter Bonnet and Broadway Bares...the organization not only does incredible work but fosters such an atmosphere of community. I wanted to contribute, and I felt the best way to do that was to share my music and lyrics. They jumped at the idea of a concert of my songs as a benefit event. And as far as the title, I wish I could claim I'm that witty, but the sad truth is I posted on my Facebook asking for suggestions and - after receiving some really hilarious options - had my friends vote for a winner. "Four Scores...And Seven Shows Ago" won hands down.

4. How did you decide on who you wanted to perform your music? I've been lucky enough to work with some amazingly talented people in this city, and over the years they have become close friends of mine. They are so generous with their time and their talents...frankly, once word got out that I was doing "Four Scores...," the evening kind of cast itself pretty quickly. I had the unusual luxury of getting to sit back and see which performers, out of the insane number who were willing, would match up to the songs I wanted to include.

5. In this upcoming revue, you are showcasing some of your stand alone music as well as music from 3 of your musicals: "Bebe vonBreckenburg’s Beautiful Brooklyn Bridge Bridal Boutique," "Miss Humanity" (lyrics co-written by Michael DiGaetano), and "Calixte." What can you tell us about these musicals? Well "Bebe..." and "Miss Humanity" are both bright, bubbly musical comedies. "Miss Humanity" tells the story of a pageant-queen-turned-Hollywood-megastar who decides to do "important work" by stopping a war...and, thankfully, her underhanded agent has the reality TV contacts to invent a fake one for her. It's kind of "Legally Blonde" meets "Wag the Dog." Big sets, big cast, big Broadway-style fun. Meanwhile "Bebe..." is a single-set, small ensemble musical farce that follows a woman desperate to save her store and her otherworldly "fairy godmother" helper who takes the physical form of Vera Wang. I know, it sounds like I took a bong hit before I wrote that one. Let me put it this way: "Bebe..." answers the question, "What would happen if Christopher Durang and William Finn wrote a musical together?" Absurdist, meta-theatrical musical comedy fun. The last show, "Calixte," a new, exciting project that was previously titled "The Rise of the King." This musical is my first venture into creating a role for a star, namely the opera singer Maryann Kyle. I had the immense good fortune of music directing Kyle's New York cabaret debut, and was so floored by her talent that I thought, "I have to write for that voice." She was open to collaborating on a new project, and thus "Calixte" was born. "Calixte" is a musical fable about a young outcast-turned-hero who is forced on a quest to vanquish the wicked and seemingly all-powerful Calixte (who Kyle will play). Through a twist of fate, "Calixte" actually finds redemption and the young hero becomes king. Very traditional, "epic hero's journey" musical theater.

6. What excites you about performing at The Laurie Beechman Theatre? The Beechman is like a second home to me. It was one of the first venues I ever performed at here in the city, and it's certainly the one I have found myself returning to the most. The staff is amazing, and the management has always treated me well. From the initial stages of planning "Four Scores...," I knew the Beechman should be its home.

7. In addition to your upcoming show, you also conduct the national tour of the Midtown Men. What has been the best part about working with them? Two words: DREAM JOB. Seriously, what's not to like? I get to tour the country and spend time with heavy-hitter, Tony-winning Broadway megastars Christian Hoff, Michael Longoria, Daniel Reichard, and J Robert Spencer, and play incredible music at gorgeous venues. Being on the road making music with your friends? Yes, please! There's nothing like performing on stage for 1500 screaming fans, and thanks to The Midtown Men, I get to experience that again and again every week. And those Midtown Men fans are NO JOKE. Next to tweens squealing at a Bieber concert, I don't think there are more energetic and supportive fans out there. We know it's going to be a good show when we can hear the screams coming from the other side of the curtain before the show's even started. First time that happened, I asked the stage manager what they were screaming at. He said, simply, "The house lights went down. They know the show is about to start."

8. What have you learned about yourself from being a composer? Okay, so I know I'm supposed to be deep right now and give some sort of life changing revelation. But sadly, the main thing I've learned about myself from composing is that I am a procrastinator. A helpless, incurable procrastinator. Where are MY twelve steps??? Oh, they're right there? Meh, I'll climb them later. But seriously, I don't know what it is; I can't find the creative spark until the 11th hour and then suddenly - BAM - it comes. I guess it's because I am over-critical and a little OCD, so I can't shut off the persnickety editor in my head until it's too late to really think about it. There is a silver lining, though. Since I have accepted my procrastinator ways, I simply let myself get roped into impossible deadlines. People seem impressed that I can turn a song around overnight if I have to. I don't have the heart to tell them that even if I had a month to write it, I wouldn't put pen to score until the night before anyway. Once you turn your procrastination into an asset, you find you get a lot of writing done. That's why I have pledged to do almost exclusively new material at "Four Scores...," because I know I'll get it done if I have to, and I probably wouldn't have even finished some of these numbers otherwise. 

9. What's the best advice you've ever received? I picked this up in an improv comedy class when I was a kid, and it just stuck: always say, "Yes, and...." It's helpful to remind myself to do that, because some of the greatest adventures/opportunities/learning experiences I've had came from unexpected places. By approaching the world with an attitude of "yes," I'm always open to whatever new and exciting road is rolling out in front of me. And the "and" is just as important, because it forces me to contribute to this new idea/opportunity, and suddenly I'm on my way down this new road going, "Whoa, look at this pretty scenery! Ooh, a Denny's!"

10. If you could dream about anyone while you sleep, who would it be? Chris Evans. Swoon.

BONUS QUESTIONS:

11. Favorite way to spend your day off? What's a "day off"?

12. Favorite way to stay in shape? Jogging in Central Park. Not only does it make me feel super New York-ey, but that's time I can spend just with myself and my thoughts and the open path. Also, on weekends, there's always something kookey going on in the park, and you never know what you're going to stumble upon.

13. Boxers or Briefs? Briefs, but not tightie-whities. I like more fun, designer-y type undies. Actually come to think of it, my underwear drawer probably sports a palette of colors and patterns so vibrant that even Ray Charles would go, "Gurrrrrrrl, puh-leeze!"

14. If you could have any super power, which one would you choose? Mind control. Definitely mind control. If for no other reason than I'm sick of pitch meetings. Oh, to just wave my hand like Obi Wan Kenobi and say, "You want to produce my musical." Mmmm...that's almost a better dream than Chris Evans. Almost.

Tony Sweet

With over half-a-million listeners and growing, Tony Sweet’s radio show, On Air with Tony Sweet has spearheaded online radio. An entertainment talk show with a twist, On Air with Tony Sweet recently celebrated it's 200th show and continues to be the #1 source for the latest in Hollywood and buzz-worthy news. Set in a “Reality Radio” format, Tony Sweet strives to bring raw news and feature guests that include celebrities, politicians, and religious figures. Tony’s charming and heartfelt country vibe is a favorite amongst listeners and guests. Tony Sweet never judges and strives to bring a show where listeners can relate and unite with guests and topics.

A self-proclaimed "country boy from Kansas," Tony was the youngest of four in a musically inclined family. He dreamt of pursuing a career in professional singing, but struggled with shyness. Still, Tony had a competitive spirit, excelling as a Track and Field State Champion in high school, an All-American athlete in college, and a competitive body builder. Tony began a modeling career in his early twenties, and did a national ad campaign with a fitness magazine, hoping to build up his confidence. In 2002, wanting to be where creativity was, Tony moved from Kansas City to Los Angeles.  He still dreamed of singing professionally, but was unsure about how to start his career. Tony auditioned alongside thousands for the Gospel Music Channel’s "Gospel Dream" in 2008 and was selected as a stand out candidate to move onto Nashville as one of the top sixteen contestants.

Tony’s first chance to inspire others came when The Advocate, the national LGBT magazine, asked Tony to be featured in their publication, effectively making him the face of Gay America. He told The Advocate, "If I can use [singing] to cross bridges between the gay world and the mainstream, then I think I’ll be doing what I’m supposed to do."

After receiving thousands of supportive letters from fans all over the world, Tony took to the airwaves, realizing that his opinions were valued and he was indeed inspirational. He formatted his own show for internet radio and on November 14, 2008, On Air with Tony Sweet made its debut and continues to bridge people together to love themselves and to pursue their dreams. In May of 2011, he moved his #1 show from LA Talk Radio to Global Voice Broadcasting, where he is not only an On-Air Personality but also Chief Operating Officer.

Tony’s roster of guests ranges from television, film, recording artists and acclaimed authors. Some of the talent that Tony has had the pleasure of interviewing have been Academy Award and Emmy nominated actress Debbie Reynolds, Academy Award winning actress Mo’nique, Grammy winning singer/songwriter Melissa Etheridge, Academy Award winning screen writer Dustin Black, Emmy winning actress Rue McClanahan, Daytime Emmy nominees Carolyn Hennesy and Jennifer Bassey, comedian Margaret Cho, Disney star Debby Ryan, TV personality Sherri Shephard, acclaimed singer/actress Mya, Reality TV star Bethenny Frankel and Twilight star, Jackson Rathbone. In addition he has had guests who have been featured on such hit shows as Glee, True Blood, American Idol, Awkward., So You Think You Can Dance, Smallville, America’s Next Top Model, Drop Dead Diva, Hot In Cleveland.

Join Tony Sweet every Wednesday and Friday from 4 to 6PM/PST on Global Voice Broadcasting for On Air with Tony Sweet and be sure to follow Tony Sweet on Facebook and Twitter!

1. Who or what inspired you to become a radio host? It wasn't a who, it was a what. I actually started a radio show after I was featured in The Advocate because I kept wanting to help and reach people who were struggling with their faith and being gay. I wanted to show them that no matter who you are or where you're from that you can do whatever you want to do if you set your mind to it and surround yourself with supportive friends and networking with people. I felt with a radio show, I would reach more people instantly than going around to churches or various events.

2. How did you decide on the format for "On Air with Tony Sweet"? The format started out as a gay Christian format which there hadn't really been one with that pairing that I know of. After a while, it evolved into more entertainment. The reason I did that was because I wanted to be known as Tony, the guy who has a great entertainment show, who just happens to be gay, not as the gay, Christian host Tony. I just wanted to be like, "I'm just a country boy from Kansas that just wants to make a difference and I happen to be gay." That's really how it transformed from a gay Christian show to more of an entertainment based show. I also feel more people can relate to the guests on my show with the entertainment format.

3. You recently celebrated your 200th show, which is fantastic. What does this milestone mean to you? That's a good question. It allows me to really look back at just how many shows I've done and how many people I've interviewed. This milestone, for me, is my beginning. I feel my career in the entertainment industry is just beginning. The 200 mark has built my foundation. My foundation is built. Now I got the lumber and I need to build my career in this way and that direction. Now that I have foundation and I'm getting more respect and being taken more seriously, I can definitely start building my career the way I want it.

3a. When you talk about your career, do you feel that you want to stick with radio or are there other aspects of entertainment you might want to get into? Oh no, radio is just the beginning. It's been a blessing, I didn't even know I wanted. There's a saying, well, it's a line from the song "more than I ask for, but less than I dreamed" meaning I never dreamed of being a radio host, I never dreamed of being in the entertainment industry other than singing but it was more than I ever asked for.

Yes, I want to get into television and host shows, I would love to produce, I have some ideas for writing film and television shows, and I want to promote concerts. Co-owning Global Voice, which hosts my radio show, "On Air with Tony Sweet," has given me a voice not just to my radio show, but given me a voice for the whole entertainment industry as a whole. I can then take it any which way I want.

4. Who haven't you interviewed that you would like to? There are many people I would love to interview, but one person in particular I would really love to interview, is Betty White. There is something about Hollywood legends, people who have been in this industry 30 years longer than I've been alive that just puts a whole new perspective on where I need to go and need to learn and need to pay my dues. I would also love to interview Fran Drescher because of the struggles she has gone through and came out on top.

5. What made you move your show from LA Talk Radio to Global Voice Broadcasting? Growth, independence. I'm a person that doesn't take "No" for answer. As my show was growing, there were people who thought they knew what was best for me, which is great, but I'm very proactive in my career. I go outside the box a lot and I felt more in a box, a limitation to my growth while at LA Talk Radio, so nothing against it, it's a great station and that's where I got my start, but I just felt Global Voice idea of being unique and bringing a lot of old school talk and live theatre to giving hosts the opportunity to do other things outside their show were very important to me. It's not all about making money. The things I've learned and the people I associate with now, I can pass that along to my hosts. Starting my own radio station has given me a lot of opportunities.

6. What do you get from being a co-owner of Global Voice Broadcasting in addition to being a host? Having a show, I've learned a lot about the industry. My father and grandfather both owned their own business and I always knew I wanted to own one too. There's the good and there's the bad. I'm on call 24/7. There's no, "I'm on vacation." The good thing about it is the freedom of making decisions quickly, trying new things without having to get approval, and it does bring a new respect of people looking at you as someone who had their own show and now owning your own station. It has brought respect from the industry and great relationships with PR people, management, talent agents, and the talent themselves. It has given me great friends and opportunities that would not have been given to me as just a host because people really take you more seriously as the owner of a media company than just a host because you make the decisions. It can be overwhelming sometimes, but I like it, and it shows me growing as a person.

7. One of the things I especially like about Global Voice Broadcasting is that you do have the live theatre section of it. What made you want to have that as a component of the station? The biggest reason is that it makes the station unique. The other reason is it gives an opportunity for actors. There are performers I interview for my show and tell them about the live theatre and they get so excited about doing it. It also gives opportunities for our own hosts as well as original writers and playwrights to show their plays to thousands of people, where as if you had it in a small theatre, not as many people would go because it's I have to buy ticket or I have to get dressed up. Here, they can just sit in their home and listen. It brings that old school radio back to the air. I love that. It makes the artists and listeners use their imagination as well.

8. I read that growing up you struggled with shyness as a child. How did you overcome this? What was it like to be featured in The Advocate and what was it like to do this feature considering where you came from with the shyness? There is still some shyness to me, which always surprises people, but I am now very good at hiding it when I need to. Back in the day people would either not talk to me or my head would be down because I was so shy. In my early twenties I became an aerobics instructor and did some fitness modeling to help me get over my shyness. It was really, really hard to do. To this day, I can still be somewhat shy in a crowd, unless the spotlight is on me. I don't know what it is, but it's like a switch. It's a struggle to this day, but not as bad as it used to be.

The decision to do the feature in The Advocate came after I got back from Nashville, which I went to to audition for the Gospel Music Channel's "Gospel Dream." I actually approached The Advocate, thinking they would just do a little article, but then it became a feature. I did the article to tell my story that you can be religious and gay and be okay. I never struggled with anything thinking God hated me. I was very lucky to have supportive parents, at least they never told me anything negative face to face about being gay, so when I did the feature, it was to reach out to those people struggling.

9. What's the best advice you've ever received? My aunt said, "Never trust a man with a mustache and a beard." Hahaha. Seriously, the best advice I've ever received was from my best friend. When people compliment me, it is hard  for me to say, "Thank You very much I appreciate that." So, my best friend said, "Believe you can not wish you can. I wish you could see you through my eyes." It took a while for that to really make sense to me, but I need to believe in myself because so many other people believe in me and if I can believe in 50% of what people believe in me, I'll do it. If I put mind to something, I'll do it, even if I get resistance.

10. If you could dream about anyone while you sleep, who would it be? For those people who believe in re-incarnation, I would love to dream about one of my past lives to see what I went through or what I did that may have carried over to make me the person I am today.

BONUS QUESTIONS:

11. Favorite way to spend your day off? Hiking up in the mountains.

12. Favorite way to stay in shape? Besides hiking, I love group fitness classes.

13. Boxers or Briefs? Briefs.

14. Favorite website? Faith websites and seeing when my favorite singers will be in town.

15. If you could have any super power, which one would you choose? To fly. Everyone once in a while I fly in my dreams and that was such an amazing feeling.

Mariah Bonner

Mariah Bonner is a rising performer whose already conquered film, television, and theatre. Mariah's film credits include "Shadow People," "Freerunner," "Mask Maker", "The Social Network," and "Ma Cite, Mon, Histoire." Television audiences know Mariah from "Jane By Design," "CSI," "Rules of Engagement," BBC's "Born With It," and France's "Qui Mange Quand."

On stage, Mariah has starred in "All That Might Happen" (Manhattan Theatre Source), "You Can't Take It With You" (Southwark Playhouse, London), "My Favorite Year," "The Real Inspector Hound," "Inherit The Wind," "The Workshop," "The Tempest,"  "Man of La Mancha," and "Prometheus Bound" (all at Guildhall School of Muisc & Drama).

Mariah just became a member of LA's "The Actor's Gang," helmed by Tim Robbins and will be seen in their upcoming production of "Atomic Beach Ball." Mariah will also be seen in the upcoming Jean-Claude Van Damme film "Universal Soldier."

For more on Mariah be sure to visit http://mariahbonner.com!

1.  Who or what inspired you to become a performer? I’ve always wanted to become a performer. But the turning point came for me when I was about 15. I saw Vivian Leigh in A Streetcar Named Desire and I was inspired to pursue performing as a career.

2. Who haven't you worked with that you would like to? The list is so long!...but if I could handpick my next director it would be Clint Eastwood.

3. You recently became a member of The Actor's Gang in LA, which is helmed by Tim Robbins. What made you want to become a member and what has your experience been like so far? I was seeking a creative community to be a part of here so my acting coach encouraged me to check out a show at The Actors’ Gang. I thought their work was motivational and of a high quality so I jumped in. I’ve been lucky to work with them and have had a great experience so far.

4. What have you learned from being a member of The Actor's Gang that you don't feel you would have learned somewhere else or on your own? The importance of ensemble and community for an artist. And also how important it is to continue developing my craft.

5. You have also been cast in Stefan Haves' "Atomic Beach Ball." What attracted you to this show? What do you hope audiences come away with after seeing the show? Stefan attracted me to the show. He’s such a generous and encouraging director. Working with him is a joy. I hope that joy will permeate through to audiences. To sum up, enjoyment is the key word here!

6. In addition to the above, you are the lead in Jean-Claude Van Damme's new movie "Universal Soldier: A New Dimension." What was the best part about working with Jean-Claude? Working with Jean Claude was terrific; he gave me valuable advice about how to be more effective on film. I would go to the set when I wasn’t working just to watch him.

6a. What do you get from film work that you don't get from your theatrical endeavor? Film is a different medium than theater but you’re still telling stories and I’m still learning. The biggest thing is to trust myself and let myself be guided by instinct in addition to technique.

7. If working with Jean-Claude wasn't enough, you are also the female face of Mercedes. What does it mean to you to be the face of Mercedes? It’s an honor to represent such a classy and elegant brand!

8. What have you learned about yourself from being a performer? It forces you to look inside yourself, to find courage and strength and faith you may not have known you had...It’s very revealing.

9. What's the best advice you've ever received? Trust yourself.

10. If you could dream about anyone while you sleep, who would it be? Rhett Butler.

BONUS QUESTIONS:

11. Favorite way to spend your day off? Morning in bed, reading. Brunch, movies, dinner and bed again.

12. Favorite way to stay in shape? Morning stretches and exercises. 20 minutes every day. Proper sleep and nutrition.

13. Favorite skin care product? Rose water.

14. If you could have any super power, which one would you choose? I would like the ability to go back in time to relive and correct errors and opportunities missed so that I would never have any regrets.