Nicholas Edwards Discusses The Last Five Years, Frozen, & the Importance of Continuing to Create!
I think one of my favorite things about this series is interviewing amazing artists from all walks of life, and when you get to write about an artist who inspires you, it is a true reward in itself! Nicholas Edwards is truly one of those artists. The first time I saw him perform was in Jesus Christ Superstar, and pretty soon, he will be starring opposite of Nasia Thomas (Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations) in Out of the Box Theatrics and Holmdel Theatre Company's upcoming streaming production of Jason Robert Brown's The Last Five Years which will run from February 11–25, 2021. Nicholas has performed on Broadway in Frozen, The National Tour of Les Misérables, Off-Broadway in Spamilton, and regionally with well-respected companies such as Berkshire Theatre Group, Paper Mill Playhouse, Triangle Productions, Count Basie Theater, Tibbits Summer Theatre, and Ocean City Theatre Company.
Nicholas is truly a performer you remember forever once you see him perform on stage, and I am very honored to have the chance to interview him!
How old were you when you knew you wanted to be a performer?
I was 16 when I joined my High School choir. I did my first solo Sophomore year, and it was life-changing.
Are there any teachers or mentors in your life who truly helped you become the amazing performer you are today?
Absolutely! My choir director Ms. Scottie LaMarra, my High School theatre director Stacie Morano, and of course the Mayor of Broadway, Gerry Mac!
We are living in some unprecedented times in the world. For all artists (especially actors) it is definitely a time of uncertainty. What has your everyday routine been like during Quarantine and what are some things you do to keep your spirits up?
Well first off, I started Therapy which has been life-changing. I know that in the Black and Latinx community, mental health can be a stigma or something we just don't talk about. It's definitely helped me have a better outlook on life during these times. In terms of my routine, I have a 6-month-old puppy named Kylo. He's amazing. I usually start my day by feeding him while I make my cup of coffee. I write every morning which helps ground me and set my day up for success. I like to go for long walks in my hood. I'm quarantining by myself, so anytime the sun is out,
I try to take advantage of it. It's crazy what some fresh air can do for your mood. Whenever I'm feeling overwhelmed or anxious, I play my guitar or write music. There's not much work out there for us actors right now, and what is out there is even more competitive than before the pandemic. I find that as hard as it may be, you have to keep creating. Whether it’s music or some other art form, even if no one sees it, you have to keep doing what you love.
I cannot express how excited I am to see you and Nasia Thomas perform in The Last Five Years. Both of you are such fantastic artists! What are you most excited about with this virtual performance?
Thank you so much! I am just beside myself and cannot believe it's actually happening. I've always loved this music. I've been listening to the original cast recording since High School, but I NEVER thought I would have the chance to play this role or sing this music outside of a concert. I think that's what's so exciting about this production. I'm really looking forward to diving into the music with fresh eyes (and ears) and hopefully, building something new. I'm excited to bring The Last 5 Years into 2020 and sing the music the way I've always wanted to. It's going to be so fun.
Are there any roles or performances you have done in your career that will always be near and dear to your heart?
Making my Broadway Principal debut as Kristoff in Frozen. What a night. I had over 30 people in the audience, friends, and family from all over. Also, Frozen was my Broadway debut. That show and the company attached to it will always hold a special place in my heart.
What advice would you give any young aspiring artists in these challenging times?
I said it earlier, but keep creating. I know it's hard to stay positive and hopeful right now, but if you keep working on your craft, you'll come out the other side of this in a much better place than where you started. You can start a podcast with your friends, produce a virtual show, you might surprise yourself and make some amazing connections along the way. Also, be yourself. Work hard and don't let anyone tell you that you are limited to doing a certain "thing".
To learn more about Nicholas make sure you visit his official website at - https://www.thenicholasedwards.com