Rachel Schur discusses Chicago, Cabaret and not worrying about having the fanciest resume!

I would like you to meet the oh-so-talented triple threat Rachel Schur. Rachel is currently performing as Annie (Six for any of you theatre fans obsessed with the Cell Block Tango) in Chicago on Broadway. She has also performed on Broadway in Jersey Boys and in the National Tours of A Chorus Line, Jersey Boys, and Fame. Regionally, Rachel has performed for well-respected companies such as Signature Theatre and The Papermill Theatre. Rachel has also been seen on television in Law and Order: SVU. I recently saw the revival of Chicago not too long ago and I can strongly attest that Rachel is truly one of the beacons that is keeping the long-running revival fresh and a definite must-see. I am so happy to have the chance to feature Rachel in this series!

How old were you when you knew you wanted to be a performer?

I saw Footloose on Broadway when I was 13 and I knew that I wanted to do this. My mom was a musical theatre gal and owned her own dance studio that I grew up in so I also came by it honestly.

Where did you study? Are there any mentors who helped you become the amazing performer you are today?

I studied at many amazing places- Belvoir Terrace, CMU pre-college, James Madison University, all the amazing studios and classes in NYC. Jasper Grant has always been my cheerleader ever since we met doing the Fame: The Musical tour. He is so wise and supportive!

Chicago is arguably one of the greatest musicals of all time and the Cell Block Tango is truly legendary at this point. What does it mean to you to perform in such an amazing show on Broadway?

I grew up performing the cellblock tango and Roxie for my parents in my living room. It probably wasn’t the most appropriate thing at age 10 but I was obsessed. I’ve been preparing my entire life! There is nothing like performing the cell block tango knowing all of the greats that came before you and the ones who will continue after you!

Are there any shows, moments or performances in your career that stick out and will always be near and dear to your heart?

I loved playing Val in A Chorus Line. She’s a real firecracker and I loved tapping into that side of myself. As for the most rewarding, I’d have to say Cabaret at The Signature Theatre. It was so inventive, beautiful, and connected. I’m still on a text chain with that cast to this day and that show was in 2015!

What advice would you give any aspiring artist who wants a career in the performing arts?
I really don’t think it matters where you train as long as you dedicate yourself to it 100%. You can always learn from someone. Don’t worry if you don’t have the fanciest resume or connections, it all comes out in the wash in the end. Love the art in yourself, not yourself in the art.

For more information about Rachel's current gig make sure you visit - https://chicagothemusical.com; and to learn more about Rachel please visit her official website at - https://www.rachelschur.com