Wharton Center for the Performing Arts is continuing its 2019-20 Broadway season later this month with one of the most beloved musicals in history. The Lincoln Center Theater production of “My Fair Lady” is making its way to Wharton Center February 26th-March 1st.
I had the opportunity to interview Anne Brummel, who is currently performing in the Ensemble and as the understudy for Mrs. Pearce. Brummel is touring the country with her young son Harlen and husband Michael Williams, who is also a part of the “My Fair Lady” cast. I spoke with her about working and traveling with family, always being prepared as an understudy, and why “My Fair Lady” is an enduring favorite.
STEFANIE POHL: What do you think makes “My Fair Lady” so enduring?
ANNE BRUMMEL: I think we can all appreciate a rags to riches story, and having a female protagonist makes the piece all the more special. Eliza is a strong young woman who decides to better herself, and I think there is a real need to see people rise up and succeed. Obviously having the beautiful book and music by Lerner and Loewe and Shaw source material helps make this a timeless piece.
STEFANIE POHL: Are there particular challenges in being part of the ensemble while also being ready to step into a role (Mrs. Pearce) at any given time? How do you approach prepping for the show initially and then during the tour?
ANNE BRUMMEL: Being an understudy is always a challenge because you never know when that phone call is going to come in. You always have to be ready. We rehearsed in NYC for a month so it gives you time to “play” and figure out your characters. During the tour I love the ritual of doing my makeup and getting in costume and hair to really put me in the headspace of the show.
STEFANIE POHL: You’ve performed as Elphaba in “Wicked,” notably one of the modern Broadway classics, and now you’re touring with “My Fair Lady,” a classic that’s over 60 years old. What has that experience been like?
ANNE BRUMMEL: Haha. Two very different genres of theatre for sure! Being part of such a beloved story that people of all ages have such fond memories of and an attachment to is extremely special, but very similar to “Wicked” in that regard. I love that I get to be a part of theatre history and I love that I get to tell the tale of strong women.
STEFANIE POHL: How did it come to be that you and your husband Michael Williams both joined the “My Fair Lady” cast?
ANNE BRUMMEL: My husband did the Broadway production at Lincoln Center Theater. When we found out they were doing a tour, we thought it would be an amazing opportunity to travel as a family. I auditioned and crossed my fingers that it would work out!
STEFANIE POHL: What is the biggest joy and the biggest challenge of being on the road as a family?
ANNE BRUMMEL: Biggest challenge, where to start…haha…finding sitters in every city is a challenge, and definitely a lesson in trusting your gut. We have been lucky, but that is an added stress that is unique to this experience. The biggest joy is that we get to show our son the country and we get to go on a crazy family adventure. In our business it is tricky to work together all the time or even be in the same place at the same time. The fact that we get to work as a unit is so special.
STEFANIE POHL: Do you have any dream roles or productions you’d like to be a part of?
ANNE BRUMMEL: Hmmm… I would love to do a Sondheim piece. I have never done one and would love to add that to the resume.
STEFANIE POHL: What’s your go-to audition song and/or karaoke song?
ANNE BRUMMEL: My go to audition song lately has been “I’ve Been Here Before” from “Closer Than Ever.” But it really depends on what I am auditioning for. Karaoke? “Alone” by Heart.
STEFANIE POHL: What can Wharton Center audiences expect from this Lincoln Center Theater production of “My Fair Lady”?
ANNE BRUMMEL: An incredible night of theatre. The set is gorgeous, the story has all the nostaglia that audiences want, but with a bit of a modern twist, and a cast from principles to ensemble that is truly remarkable. This show should not be missed.
Don’t miss “My Fair Lady” at Wharton Center, February 26th-March 1st. Click here for show and ticket information.