Debuting Artist: Heather McClain
Introducing Heather McClain as Lulu in “Cabaret”
We are excited to welcome Heather McClain to OpenStage Theatre & Company! Heather will be playing Lulu in the Kit Kat Klub, “Oh, you like Lulu yeah? Well, too bad so does Rosie!”
Tell us about yourself! What’s your theatre background? How did you hear about OpenStage?
Well, I am originally from Wisconsin! I have a BFA in Musical Theatre from the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point. I’ve performed Off-Broadway, toured Nationally, and performed/choreographed/
How familiar were you with “Cabaret” prior to the audition process?
I have loved “Cabaret” since I was in college. I actually did my final paper in college on “Cabaret” and Fosse.
What do you want audiences to take away from “Cabaret”? Why is it still a must see theatre nearly 60 years later?
It illustrates the dangers of being asleep to radical doctrine and agendas that are forever present, right in our backyard. The devil isn’t in your enemies but in very plain, ordinary people that can be led astray. Choosing to not care about legislation and current social movements because it doesn’t directly affect you is irresponsible and apathy must be recognized as dangerous.
What’s it like collaborating with a creative powerhouse like director Kenny Moten?
Kenny is a big reason why I auditioned for this show. I’ve known of Kenny since about 2008. Our paths almost crossed back then. However, in the past couple of years we’ve met several times in person. I have always thought he seemed like such a kind, generous and intelligent human being. I listened to a podcast he was a guest artist for about a year ago. From that point on, I’ve been wanting to work with him so much. He came highly recommended by several co-workers and friends. They all said, “If you get the chance to work with him, do it!” So here we are.
What project(s) are you working on next? What is your dream role/project and why?
We have a lot of events coming up at my event space. I’m also directing A 1940’s Radio Christmas Carol at Longmont Theatre Company, which I start rehearsals for immediately after Cabaret opens.
My dream project…Hmmm…I’ve gotten to do some amazing roles already, Kate in “Kiss Me Kate”, Aldonza in “Man of LaMancha”…I think I’m just looking forward to picking and choosing different pieces/roles that I’m passionate about, rather than doing things because I need the job. That being said, I am very thankful for the opportunity to finally be a Kit Kat Girl! I saw the revival in New York with Michael C. Hall back in 1999 and have been dreaming of this role since then. In that production, the Kit Kat Girls were also the pit orchestra. This was the only reason I took my clarinet to New York in 2001. I wanted it so bad. So, I think I’m actually in a “dream role” right now!
When you hear “Cabaret” what do you think of?
Fosse.
Come see Heather and the rest of the cast in “Cabaret,” play October 29–November 26!
Book by Joe Masteroff
Based on the play by John Van Druten and
stories by Christopher Isherwood
Music by John Kander
Lyrics by Fred Ebb
Directed by Kenny Moten
Vocal Direction by Kate Rothstein
Music Direction by Matthew Rothstein
Choreographed by Angie Simmons
October 29–November 26, 2022
Playing at the Lincoln Center Magnolia Theatre
This dynamic and much-loved Tony Award-winning musical continues to seduce audiences with the tantalizing Kit Kat Klub, where the iconic Emcee assures us that “life is beautiful…even the orchestra is beautiful.” As 1930s Germany slowly surrenders to the atrocities of the Third Reich, dreams unravel and lives are demolished. Cabaret is a dark, visceral, and tumultuous ride that finds us “at the end of the world… dancing… while being fast asleep.”
CONTENT WARNING: Adult themes and situations. Questions about content? Contact OpenStage at 970.484.5237.
Season tickets are on sale now! Individual show tickets go on sale on September 30th.
