Kip chats with Pretty Woman’s Kerry D’Jovanni (he/him/Beyoncé)

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Pretty Woman: The Musical is currently playing in Birmingham and just received a rave review there from BroadwayWorld:

“Brace yourself for an enchanting production of ‘Pretty Woman: The Musical’ in Birmingham. With all the glitz and glamor of the iconic film, this adaptation is a triumphant celebration of love, laughter, and fashion.”

“Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to this romantic tale, ‘Pretty Woman: The Musical’ delivers a dazzling night at the theater. Get ready to reignite your belief in fairy tale endings.”

I’ve always loved the movie Pretty Woman, but I hadn’t seen the stage show before. So, I was extra excited to get “the skinny” from Kerry D’Jovanni over the phone from his hotel room in Birmingham. Kerry plays David Morse and various ensemble in this National Tour.

Let’s just get right to it. What was your journey with Pretty Woman: The Musical?

I had been working as a performer in various capacities: Kinky Boots, Holland America Cruise lines, an international tour of Dreamgirls, etc. But I’d also taken some time off to sharpen some of the skills I had learned from minoring in advertising and public relations in college. Because if 2020 taught us anything, it’s that it can all go away in the blink of an eye, like theater and Broadway did for 18 months. But the opportunity came up to audition for this Pretty Woman tour, so I jumped at it. All the stars aligned, and I booked it. We started rehearsing in August and eight months later I’m still out on tour and loving it.

Is there anything you would say to Huntsville audiences about why they should come and see Pretty Woman?

This show is relatable in so many ways. And everyone identifies with a different character. There’s the Vivian & Edward relationship (which is a complicated fairy tale to say the least), the wise-cracking best friend with a heart of gold Kit De Luca and the fairy godfather figure known as Happy Man, to name a few. Someone up there on stage causes a spark in you and then you just fall in love with that character.

If you love the movie you need to come see this show. The musical version is basically the movie brought to life but in a more modern and contemporary way.

We have a big student outreach program at BTL. I have the privilege of working with many of the high school theater students from multiple schools in the area. Which I love! What advice do you have for these young actors who dream of one day being up there doing what you’re doing right now?

I would say the biggest thing to focus on is yourself. As actors we are always being compared to others, which ultimately leads to us comparing ourselves to others. Which isn’t productive. So just hone in on your skill set. Do not try to emulate other actors. Be yourself.

Do you have a favorite role you’ve played and/or a favorite show?

My favorite role is definitely Lola in Kinky Boots. And I absolutely adore Songs for a New World (circa 1995) by Jason Robert Brown. My favorite newer show I’ve seen is MJ the Musical on Broadway.

Do you have a dream role you hope to play in the future?

Lola in Kinky Boots! Haha. But since I’ve played that role, I’m going to say, Kerry D’Jovanni: “Future” Tony-Award winner.

To quote the character of Happy Man: “Welcome to Hollywood! What’s your dream?”

My dream is to make a lasting impact with everything I do!

I couldn’t agree more Kerry. Leaving a lasting impact as an actor is very special. But what’s more special is leaving an impact from all of the other parts of you too and the things you did with this life. Well said.




 

Pretty Woman: The Musical
May 10 - 12, 2024
Friday at 8pm
Saturday at 2pm & 8pm
Sunday at 1pm & 6:30pm

You might have seen me as Enjolras in Les Misérables, Munkustrap in Cats or Prince Charming in Cinderella. I used to perform in many Broadway Tours all across the country. Now I report on them and give you an insider's view into this unique little world. So, let's talk about all things Broadway!

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