5 Questions with FLYING OVER SUNSET's Michele Ragusa!
Kevin Ray Johnson
I would like you to meet Michele Ragusa. Michele will be performing in the upcoming Broadway production of Flying Over Sunset - A musical from James Lapine, Tom Kitt and Michael Korie. This Broadway veteran made her debut back in 1993 in the original cast of Cyrano: The Musical. She has also performed on Broadway in shows such as Ragtime, Urinetown and Young Frankenstein just to name a few. Throughout her career, Ms. Ragusa has won a Barrymore Award for Excellence in Theatre as well as a Drama League Nomination and a Lucille Lortel Award Nomination. Flying Over Sunset is a show that I feel is a little under the radar but one that I am really excited about this season. It was quite an honor to have the chance to interview this amazing artist!
1.) How old were you when you knew you wanted to be a performer?
I initially became interested in performing in High School. I was terrified but auditioned and, within my 4 years, I went from the chorus to starring in my senior year.
2.) Where did you study? Are there any mentors that truly helped make you the performer you are today?
Funny thing is that I fought against my dreams initially and went to Business College. At that college, I saw a notice on the wall to audition for a musical they were producing. So I did and began a relationship with the director and musical director and they were the ones who pushed me to take a tour of the theatre dept at Niagara University. I only went to shut them up (they were driving me crazy to take my talent seriously). There was NO WAY I was going to be an actor - who does that?! Well, once I walked into that building/theatre, I knew I was exactly where I supposed to be. That’s where I got my BFA and the training I received was paramount in shaping me into the performer I am today.
3.) Congratulations on Flying Over Sunset! With performances beginning on March 12th, what can you say you are most excited about when it comes to performing in this musical?
"Flying Over Sunset" is going to be one of those experiences that will definitely change me. The thing I’m most excited about is working further with James Lapine. After all these years this is the first time I’ve been in his presence, and during the workshop, I was constantly inspired by him. With James both writing and directing it provides an incredible opportunity to create a depth of character that’s not always possible.
4.) Are there any other shows that you have done in your career that will always be near and dear to your heart?
I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have had opportunities to create some of the most iconic women in musical theater. As of now, I’d say that playing Rose in “Gypsy” has been on the top of my list. I was also told recently that there’s a trifecta that I achieved - playing Dolly, Mame, and Rose. Apparently, there are only a few women to ever to do this. I think the other show that made a real impact on my heart was being hired by Mel Brooks to replace Megan Mullaly in “Young Frankenstein”. That was a real trip!
5.) What advice would you give young performers who want a career in this business?
When I speak to young performers about this business I always stress the importance of education. Learn as much as you can to make yourself the best version of yourself. Standing out in this career is paramount. Being true and unique will do that. Also - if you’re in a degree program - stay and get your Master’s. Having that kind of degree not only stands out on your resume, but, it enables you teaching opportunities, on a University level, should you ever want that.
If you would like to learn more about Michele make sure you visit her official website at www.micheleragusa.com and to learn more about Flying Over Sunset on Broadway visit - https://www.lct.org/shows/flying-over-sunset/