On The Road: Kyle Anderson
For today’s edition of On The Road, I am happy to introduce you all to another hunk from the Something Rotten national tour, Kyle Nicholas Anderson! Kyle grew up in Redmond, Washington, and was a real-life Troy Bolton with a love for both baseball and musical theatre. In the 9th grade, Kyle’s life forever changed when he was cast in a production of Les Miserables and completely fell in love with theatre. Kyle graduated from Syracuse University with a BFA in musical theatre and went on to perform at the MUNY in Oklahoma and at the Papermill Playhouse in A Christmas Story: The Musical. He is an adorable tenor, understudied Nigel in Something Rotten and has “walking in heels on a raked stage” on his resume. (Obviously I’m obsessed with him.) I hope you enjoy Kyle’s interview!
How long have you been a performer?
I have been performing since the third grade, but didn’t get serious until college.
What was your "big break"?
As artists, I’m not quite sure if we ever get breaks. We all must work exceedingly hard to earn our keep, whether you are Tony-nominee Adam Pascal or someone in the ensemble.
What is your favorite show you've ever worked on?
Liesl Tommy’s Les Miserables at Dallas Theater Center. We attacked this classic musical as a new play, table-working for a week before we even started singing. Someone said art is here to afflict the comforted and comfort the afflicted – we did just that. Now, go google Liesl Tommy and run to her next piece of theatre!
What is something you absolutely can't live without backstage?
Chapstick!
What is your favorite thing about your job?
I am forever grateful to laugh every single day with this wonderful, crazy, and loving group of people.
What is the most challenging part of being an actor on tour?
A long-distance relationship, missing birthdays and holidays with family and friends.
With fellow cast member Daniel Beeman.
What is your favorite number to perform in your show?
“A Musical” – I still get flashbacks to the audition process, which was “A Musical,” and knowing how hard we all worked to get here.
What was it like performing the role of Nigel for the first time?
It was surreal to say the least. Adrenaline rushing, heart pounding, you take a breath, and now Tony-nominee Rob McClure is your brother. Though it’s hard not to have a yelling match inside your head while the play is going on, the love and support of the entire cast allows you to do your job with ease. I really don’t remember much of the first time going on, but I do remember thinking, “What is my life?” especially bowing after Adam Pascal! Oh, and the cherry on top – with only a day’s notice, my parents flew down from Seattle and got to see the show!
Did the creative team give you freedom to play Nigel in your own way or are the characters set tracks?
As an understudy, I feel your job is do the show the person you are understudying has created. That said, the creative team has given us freedom within the confines of the role. My Nigel is inherently different from Josh Grisetti who is inherently different from David Rossetti because of our experiences and who we are as people – thus, the creatives bring out the most of each of us in the role.
What is your favorite part about telling this story every night?
It is exceedingly rewarding to hear thousands of people laugh night after night. No matter what city, in both red and blue states, people are desperate to laugh – and we are exceedingly lucky to be able to provide that outlet.
What is it about this job that makes you come back each day?
The amazing humans in our company – we really are one big family.
What is the best advice you've ever been given?
Your reputation is worth more than any credit on your resume. Therefore, be kind, generous, and supportive.
What advice would you give to a young person who wants to move to NYC and pursue a career in the arts?
Do it. In this current climate, it is exceedingly difficult for people, in any field, to secure a job – why not strive for a job that fulfills you? That said, I strongly believe training should be your priority, whether that is a BFA, MFA, classes in NYC or your hometown, a dance studio, voice lessons, etc. Finally, find an amazing group of friends, relentlessly support each other, and celebrate life together.
FUN FACTS:
What was the first Broadway show you ever saw?
Next to Normal
What is your favorite Broadway show you've ever seen?
Who’s Afraid Of Virginia Woolf? with Tracy Letts and Amy Morton
What is your favorite restaurant or bar that you've found on tour?
I can’t recall the exact names, but Daniel Beeman and I found some amazing dog-friendly bars on Rainey Street in Austin, Texas!
What is your favorite city you've visited on tour so far?
Washington, DC
What is your favorite costume in Something Rotten?
I absolutely LOVE my chef costume – the patterns and details are incredible.
Images by Mary Hannah Harte
Atlanta, Georgia
