It’s time for another pair of “blog-erviews” with our HAIRSPRAY cast and crew members. Meet Anthony Stephens and April Valenzuela! We move into the theatre this weekend … so don’t forget to order your tickets at https://southbaymt.com/shows/hairspray.html.
Anthony Stephens – Sketch
Anthony Stephens
Although I’ve performed in many musicals, dance is still something that I am not entirely well-versed in. The intricate dance numbers in this show are very challenging to me and sometimes out of my element. Having to remember harmonies while dancing all around the stage is challenging, but incredibly valuable. The show is really pushing me physically and vocally and taking me out of my comfort zone. As an actor, I want to stretch myself as much as I can and gain knowledge during every show I’m in, and I’m certainly learning a lot from Hairspray! And of course, the music for this show is just wonderful to listen to and I think it’s a real crowd pleaser.
What’s the most important thing you think audiences should know about this show?
I think it’s a common misconception that this show is full of fluff with no real substance. While it’s a fun and silly show with a lot of hilarious moments, there are some strong themes and messages in it that resonate with the world today. A lot of parallels can be drawn between 1962 and 2015. That being said, it isn’t a show that you should have to think too much about either! It’s really a fun night of theatre where you can relax and enjoy what you’re seeing.
Why do you perform in community theater?
My passion is theatre and I just can’t imagine doing anything else. I always want to be in a show or be involved in a production in some way. I’ve met so many terrific people and established a lot of strong friendships through performing. I am transferring to university in a couple years and majoring in theatre and I think the skills I am currently learning in community theatre here in the area will follow me for the rest of my life. I hope to do theatre for a living.
Welcome to the 60s! What says “1962” most to you?
The hip swivels.
Anthony is thrilled to be in his first show at SBMT. He performed in various productions in high school, with memorable roles such as Rum Tum Tugger in Cats and Eddie in Love Awkwardly. He was recently in “Kimberly Akimbo” at The Pear Avenue Theatre and understudied in Foothill Music Theatre’s production of Sunday in the Park With George. He is a student at Foothill College and is majoring in theatre. Enjoy the show!
April Valenzuela – Assistant Choreographer
April Valenzuela
Hairspray is all about dance–you don’t have time to sit, eat, drink , breathe…so what’s not to love! This is my first time working behind the scenes with our choreographer Lee Ann and I love the fun and joy in her pieces.
What’s the most important thing you think audiences should know about this show?
Tracy is a strong female lead who isn’t in her role because of her legs, chest, or ability to look like arm candy next to a more important male lead. She stands out of her own accord and you can’t stop the beat when she’s onstage. She earns our respect for her belief in love, justice and equality.
Why do you perform in community theater?
Dance is better than therapy! And where else can you find community exercise and adult-dress up in one place?
Welcome to the 60s! What says “1962” most to you?
Mod-fashion: those hats (oh how I love hats), long leather boots, color-blocking dresses…it was so much fun. The revolution in the fabric of society splashed across the everyday threads of American garb.
April Valenzuela is ecstatic to participate as one of the dancing staff at SBMT. She debuted with SBMT in 42nd Street, followed by Funny Girl, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, and most recently in Kiss Me Kate. April teaches dance to little ballerinas in Santa Clara and gross motor skills at a Spanish Immersion preschool in Campbell.
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