Kevin Ray Johnson

Liz Caplan is a name that is very well known and respected in the Theatre Business. I am sure you have heard her name-dropped at least once (or twice) during the Tony Awards.

I first remember hearing about this amazing artist and teacher when I was younger in college. I was told emphatically by several well-respected artists that she is truly the person you should go to when it comes to vocal coaching in New York City.

Liz has been teaching and coaching voice for over 40 years in New York City and lectures throughout the United States and Europe. Her students are currently featured in principle roles on Broadway, as artists in the recording industry as well as on film and TV. Many have also won the prestigious Tony and Grammy awards and have been Emmy award winners.

To have the chance to interview this amazing individual is truly an understatement! She has truly touched the lives of many artists and it is clear to me why she is truly one of the most respected people in our industry.

How old were you when you knew you wanted to have a career in the performing arts especially vocal performance?

I became aware that performing as a career was possible when I was 11 years old. I was taken to see Fiddler on the Roof on Broadway as my Birthday present. There was no turning back at that point.

Are there any people and or mentors who helped you on your journey?

*Liz with Beanie Feldstein and Ben Platt at Radio City Music Hall for Ben’s Netflix special.*

I had an early mentor in my high school music teacher. Having a passionate teacher who truly loved and embraced the art of teaching was inspirational on many levels. As well, being able to see multiple Broadway shows from an early age instilled a standard of excellence that I strive to meet every day of my professional life.

We are all living in a very unprecedented time. How have these times been for you and what is your daily routine like now?

I’m fortunate to be able to still see some students during these unprecedented times. Many of my students are in tv and film as well as theatre. These students with whom I have the privilege of working have projects “on the other side” for which they want to stay prepared by moving purposefully forward. As well, I spend each day doing yoga and mindful breathing. I practice this in preparation for my teaching day.

You have been the voice teacher behind some memorable voices on Broadway and beyond. Is there any voice or any show that sticks out to you in your amazing career that will always be near and dear to your heart?

I’ve loved working on nearly every production I’ve had the great privilege of Vocally Supervising or consulting. The ones that stand out are American Idiot, directed by the visionary Michael Mayer, and Once, directed by the unicorn visionary John Tiffany. And of course getting to Vocally Supervise on HEDWIG and the Angry Inch was a career highlight.

I got to work with Michael Mayer as director and the incomparable Neil Patrick Harris as HEDWIG. And of course working with John Cameron Mitchell and his co-creator, Stephen Trask was the highest (and Coolest) honor. Finally, being the Supervising Vocal Producer on the film musical, “The Greatest Showman”, starring Hugh Jackman was tremendously gratifying work. Hugh is a dream. And I got to support and work with Michelle Williams and Zach Efron as well.

What advice would you give any aspiring artist during these crazy times?

Since none of us actually knows for how long we will be isolated, this might be a good time to immerse ourselves in theater and music. Listening to artists you’ve admired or those whose work you’ve wanted to go down the proverbial rabbit hole provides a great education. Watch performances of available plays and musicals. Continue to study your craft if you’re able. Play the instruments that have been collecting dust.

I think it’s also important to take the time to breathe, stretch, meditate, read. And to envision how you’d like to see your life, self, and career once we get to “the other side”. And we will, so some inner work will truly keep us centered in order to have the energy to create again.

If you would like to learn more about Liz Caplan's Vocal Studios, the amazing shows she has been attached to throughout the years and a list of her many A-list clients make sure you visit her official website at - lizcaplan.com; you can also find her on Facebook at - facebook.com/liz.caplan.3 and on Instagram: @Lizcaplan

Liz Caplan Discusses Vocal Supervising and the Importance of Working on Yourself!

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