A Week of Waitress: Day 1!
Kyra Kennedy
Waitress National Tour Interview
Kyra Kennedy is in the ensemble, as well as an understudy in Waitress the Musicals National tour. Below she has kindly answered some questions, enjoy!
Q: How would you describe “Waitress” to someone who has never heard of the show?
A: I would tell them it is a feel good show that everyone can relate to and is sprinkled with Sara Bareilles music so what more can you ask for?
Q: Did you know what “Waitress” was before auditioning? If so how did you hear about it?
A: I did! I had heard talk of a Sara Bareilles musical that had something to do with the movie Waitress. When I first got an audition in 2015 I ran home and watched the movie like 3 times.
Q: What was the audition process like? How long did it take?
A: My first audition was for the ART production - I went in 3 times and the final callback, Sara was in the room and I had no chill. Then when the tour started auditioning, I went in then was asked to do the dance call, then had my final callback. My final callback I was so sick so I left having zero expectations and the next day my agents called! I was elated.
Q: What did you do when you found out you were cast in the show?
A: I was in the middle of Penn Station and was just running around screaming and crying. I called my mom and we both started crying and then had to figure out how to do a conference call with my dad.
Q: What were your expectations of the role and so far has the show met those expectations?
A: I haven’t ever understudied professionally so that was intimidating at first but I think I’m doing a pretty good job! The roles I play and understudy are so different and so fun.
Q: Have you been in a touring show before? Do you have favorite part about being in a touring show?
A: I have never toured before! My New Years resolution this year was to travel as much as I can. And when I got this job I was like, “Thanks, girl. Universe is lookin’ out for me.”
Q: Do you have a favorite song or scene to perform from “Waitress”?
A: Watching Jeremy Morse (Ogie) do literally anything. And Everything Changes. Chills everytime.
Q: Do you have any pre-show rituals to get you warmed up and be ready to perform?
A: I’m kind of a nerd, but I like to create playlists that the characters would listen to for each show I’m in. (The Spring Awakening one I made was hella weird haha). I warm up with Matt Farnsworth.
Q: Are you enjoying your stay in Cleveland so far? Have you visited any places you have liked?
A: I spent 4 years in CLE and I am OVER THE MOON TO BE HERE! I love this place so much. I love the spirit, the energy, the food, FALL! We’re in Cleveland in the most perfect time.
Q: Who or what inspired you to become an actor?
A: My parents, hands down. I wanted to be a brain surgeon at one point and they were like,”Okay, awesome, how can we help you.” No dream was too big or too crazy. They support me so much, especially in times I don’t believe in myself. I’m very lucky.
Q: What is your go-to audition song?
A: I usually sing the sides given to me but when I first was auditioning, Journey to the Past and I’m Not Afraid were heard in every audition room in the tri-state area by Kyra Kennedy.
Hey Guys!
I hope you all had a good day! I am over the moon! I got Waitress tour tickets for opening night! I am so, so, so beyond excited! Stay tuned for the special surprises coming this week!
xx- Rachel
