Everybody's in LA: John Schiappa
Interview by Paul Oswell
The Tony and Grammy award-winning musical Girl From the North Country is currently playing at The Saenger Theater. It's a jukebox musical based on the songs of Bob Dylan (you can read our first night review here). We caught up with leading cast member John Schiappa, who plays the part of Nick Laine.
OAD: Hi John, thanks so much for taking time out and talking to us. How has the tour been going so far?
John Schiappa: It has been amazing!
Could you tell us a little about the plot, and about your character, Nick Laine?
Nick Laine runs a boarding house in Duluth in 1934, and he's struggling to keep it open during the depression. His wife is ailing and he is trying to get his two kids launched out into the world - he always seems to be one repair bill away from losing everything…
Were you a fan of Bob Dylan's work before being cast? How important a cultural figure do you think he is in terms of American music?
I of course I knew of Bob Dylan and some of his music and was familiar with a lot of the big hits, but i had no idea of the sheer breadth and depth of his work - he truly is a poet, and a giant cultural figure in American music.
Is it your first time in New Orleans? Will you get a chance to explore the city at all?
Yes! I am going to take in as much of this city as I can. Already had a fantastic meal last night and some late night coffee and beignets!
What are the best things about touring a show like this?
I love getting to play this show all over the country, different states, cities, different audiences. And no matter where we are, we feel how much the audience loves and connects to this piece of theatre. The music and the laughter are extremely satisfying.
Finally, do you have any personal favorite Bob Dylan songs?
I love all the music from this show. Every night a different song will jump out and me and be my favorite that night - it is so beautifully arranged and sung by our extraordinary cast!
Thanks, John - all our best wishes for the rest of the run.
The Girl From The North Country runs at The Saenger Theatre through October 20th. Click here for further information and ticketing.
Interview by Paul Oswell
The Tony and Grammy award-winning musical Girl From the North Country is currently playing at The Saenger Theater. It's a jukebox musical based on the songs of Bob Dylan (you can read our first night review here). We caught up with leading cast member John Schiappa, who plays the part of Nick Laine.
OAD: Hi John, thanks so much for taking time out and talking to us. How has the tour been going so far?
John Schiappa: It has been amazing!
Could you tell us a little about the plot, and about your character, Nick Laine?
Nick Laine runs a boarding house in Duluth in 1934, and he's struggling to keep it open during the depression. His wife is ailing and he is trying to get his two kids launched out into the world - he always seems to be one repair bill away from losing everything…
Were you a fan of Bob Dylan's work before being cast? How important a cultural figure do you think he is in terms of American music?
I of course I knew of Bob Dylan and some of his music and was familiar with a lot of the big hits, but i had no idea of the sheer breadth and depth of his work - he truly is a poet, and a giant cultural figure in American music.
Is it your first time in New Orleans? Will you get a chance to explore the city at all?
Yes! I am going to take in as much of this city as I can. Already had a fantastic meal last night and some late night coffee and beignets!
What are the best things about touring a show like this?
I love getting to play this show all over the country, different states, cities, different audiences. And no matter where we are, we feel how much the audience loves and connects to this piece of theatre. The music and the laughter are extremely satisfying.
Finally, do you have any personal favorite Bob Dylan songs?
I love all the music from this show. Every night a different song will jump out and me and be my favorite that night - it is so beautifully arranged and sung by our extraordinary cast!
Thanks, John - all our best wishes for the rest of the run.
The Girl From The North Country runs at The Saenger Theatre through October 20th. Click here for further information and ticketing.