INTERVIEW: Broadway star Danny Gardner joins ‘Neurosis’ musical
Photo: Danny Gardner is the star of Neurosis, a new musical comedy playing the DR2 Theatre. Photo courtesy of the actor’s rep / Provided with permission.
Neurosis, a new musical by Allan Rice (book), Ben Green (music) and Greg Edwards (lyrics), follows the journey of Frank, a magician, and Abby, an overworked marketing executive. They seem destined for bliss, but unfortunately their neuroses get in the way. The show is billed as a modern musical comedy with a psychiatric twist.
Stepping into the role of Frank for the final performances is Broadway star Danny Gardner (Dames at Sea), and joining him is Natalie Charle Ellis (School of Rock), playing the role of Samantha. They are joined on stage by Jennifer Blood as Frank’s love interest, Abby.
Gardner was also part of Lady, Be Good! at Encores! and The New York Spectacular starring the Rockettes. He actually originated the role of Frank at the show’s engagement at the Finger Lakes Musical Theatre Festival.
Recently, Gardner exchanged emails with Hollywood Soapbox about the New York City production, which plays through Oct. 7 at the DR2 Theatre on East 15th Street. Questions and answers have been slightly edited for style.
What attracted you to this musical in the first place?
The script and score are so funny and excitingly new that I was immediately drawn to the humor of it. Frank is such a loveable character, and I knew I wanted to be able to play the role.
How do you approach the character of Frank?
He’s an introverted guy, so the awkward, truthful physicality is really important to me. The script is so hilarious and honest that it’s important to me to honor that, so the script and the physicality is where I started.
What’s it like to work with Jennifer Blood (as Abby)?
She’s fantastic! She’s a very open person and willing to play, so it’s really been a joy performing with her every night!
What’s it like to come into a cast that has been together for a few months?
I was honestly nervous about stepping into the role. This amazing cast has been together for a while, and their connections are really palpable onstage. Luckily, they were all really wonderful people and were game to welcome me into the Neurosis fold! Luckily all my neurotic worries subsided after a few rehearsals.
What’s on the horizon after Neurosis?
Next I’ll be going down to the Asolo Repertory Theater in Sarasota, Florida, to play Marcellus in their production of The Music Man! It will be hard to leave Neurosis though.
By John Soltes / Publisher / John@HollywoodSoapbox.com
Neurosis starring Danny Gardner continues through Sunday, Oct. 7 at the DR2 Theatre on East 15th Street in New York City. Click here for more information and tickets.
