Capturing Broadway Memories

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Almost two years ago, I had the honor of performing in The Sound of Music at The Lexington Theatre Company. I played Brigitta, and Kelly Belarmino was cast as Liesl. She instantly became like a true older sister to me, and all of the von Trapp kids. She was always so sweet, encouraging, and kind, not to mention incredibly talented. Getting to work with, and learn from, her made my first regoinal, professional theatre experience even more special. 

Kelly recently made her Broadway debut in the Tony-nominated revival of Pirates! The Penzance Musical, playing a Stanley Daughter and understudying the role of Mabel. When I was planning my trip to New York, and realized the show's opening would be the same week, I reached out  and asked if I could take photos of her backstage getting ready for the red carpet. I told her I knew it was a lot to ask, because equity rules can complicate things like that. After a few days of waiting, Kelly confirmed me to follow her backstage. I was so excited-this was something I'd always wanted to do. I was nervous too, though, because I'd never done a follow or dressing room photography before and wasn't sure exactly what to expect. I studied a lot of Jenny Anderson's backstage photos for inspiration while I was preparing for this. 

Then, on April 24, it was time. I got to go to the Roundabout Theatre Co. a couple hours prior to the cast red carpet. Following the direction of the wonderful press team (Chaliece and Ashlyn with Polk and Co.), I got to go backstage to Kelly's dressing room and followed her from getting ready through the carpet. I photographed her doing her makeup and hair, with her cast, on the carpet, and I took some solo portraits of her outside on the balcony of the theatre. She is always beautiful, and this day she was nothing less than radiant. 

It was so fun and an incredible experience. As an actress/theatre kid myself, I know how important the moments backstage are-quiet moments, loud moments, joyful moments, moments alone, moments with friends. This is what the audience never really sees, and not only getting to be on the other side of the curtain and witness this joy but being able to capture the moments and memories was something I'll never forget. And getting to photograph my "show sister" on her first Broadway opening was beyond amazing. 

I got to see the show a few days later, and it was wonderful to watch Kelly perform on her first (but certainly not last) Broadway stage. Pirates! was such a fun and playful show with so much heart and the whole cast was so talented. 

I'm so thankful for this opportunity and experience. Thank you Kelly, for allowing me into this special place on this very special day and for sharing some of the magic with me. I couldn't be more grateful.

You can see Pirates! The Penzance Musical playing now at Roundabout Theatre Company.