INTERVIEW: This ‘Hocus Pocus’ parody will put a spell on you
Photo: I Put a Spell on You: The Sanderson Variant stars Jay Armstrong Johnson, Allison Robinson and Amanda Williams Ware. Photo courtesy of Roberto Araujo / Provided by Kampfire PR with permission.
The annual concert parody of Hocus Pocus, lovingly dubbed I Put a Spell on You, comes courtesy of Jay Armstrong Johnson as Winifred Sanderson (he’s also the creator of the evening) with Allison Robinson and Amanda Williams Ware as sisters Sarah and Mary. The concert experience, which is both scary and hilarious, serves as a benefit for Broadway Cares / Equity Fights AIDS and features many theater performers.
Fans shouldn’t worry if they were sold out this year because tickets for the annual extravaganza often move quickly. Thankfully, the 2021 edition, I Put a Spell on You: The Sanderson Variant, is available to audience members around the world and is now streaming online until Nov. 1.
The creepy, crawly sendup of the beloved Disney film not only stars Johnson, Robinson and Ware; this year there are special guest stars, including Gavin Creel, Todrick Hall, Robyn Hurder, Eva Noblezada and Will Swenson, among others. Recently Hollywood Soapbox exchanged emails with Robinson about the annual Halloween bash. Questions and answers have been slightly edited for style.
How big of a fan are you of Hocus Pocus?
Huge fan! My first cat crush.
For those who are new to this annual event, what can they expect?
A ton of fun and laughter! Plus much visual pleasure. There are some real sexy moments and a few spooky ones as well. Really, every aspect is amazing (the costumes, makeup, performances, videography, sets, editing, choreography). But best to always press play with no expectations — more exciting that way! Regardless, you will be stunned.
What was it like to have so many guest artists this time around?
It was awesome! Everyone was so game to play and so generous with their time, talent and energy.
What do you love about the Halloween season?
Brainstorming costume ideas with Natalie Hinds. Dressing up with Natalie Hinds. The anticipation for all of the holidays. The crisp air and cooler weather. The leaves. The new array of colors. Pumpkins everywhere. Watching Hocus Pocus. Seeing everyone’s decorations (especially lawn decor and small businesses).
When did you realize a career in the performing arts was the direction for you?
I’ve always known! It’s definitely evolved, and I now find myself more on the production side of things, which I love. But singing has always been closest to my heart. When I was little, I wanted to be a singing donut maker. LOL.
By John Soltes / Publisher / John@HollywoodSoapbox.com
I Put a Spell on You: The Sanderson Variant is now streaming online. The concert benefits Broadway Cares / Equity Fights AIDS. Click here for more information and tickets.
