By. Kevin Ray Johnson (Staff Writer for OnStage Blog)

I would like you to meet the oh-so-wonderful Maria Briggs. This AMDA Alum is currently performing as A Swing and understudy for Zaneeta Shinn and serving as Dance Captain in The Revival of The Music Man which was recently nominated for 6 Tony Awards, including Best Revival of a Musical. Maria has also performed on Broadway inHello, Dolly! (u/s Minnie, Ermengarde), Anastasia (Marfa, u/s Odette), Mean Girls, Frozen, Cats. What makes her story even more inspiring is that Maria performed in 4 of these shows in ONE SEASON! Maria is truly not a problem you want to solve; she is someone to truly celebrate!

The classics will always have a special place in my heart andThe Music Man is one of those Musicals at the top of my list. It is always an honor to feature veterans of the Broadway Stage and with Maria truly fits that description by performing in her 6thshow. I am so honored Maria took the time.

How old were you when you knew you wanted to go into the performing arts?

I started dancing at 5, but I didn’t know I could do this as a profession until high school. I went to St. Paul’s Conservatory for the Performing Artists. I had a glimpse of musical theatre there and decided that was the direction I wanted to aim for. So, I attended AMDA in NY and received my BFA at The New School.

Are there any mentors who helped you become the Great Performer you are today?

Many teachers and other performers come to mind. I always said if I could be a student for the rest of my life, I’d be happy. I think that’s exactly what being an actor is. I’m constantly inspired by others and learning from them.

CongratulationsonThe Music Man. What a fun show with an amazing cast. How has your time been in this wonderful revival!

It’s been a whirlwind! It’s my first time as a co dance captain (with my teammate Ryan Worsing). I’m so thankful for this incredibly supportive cast. It’s an honor and privilege to be back performing on Broadway again, especially after these last couple of years. It’s heartwarming to hear how much joy our show brings to everyone.

Are there any shows, stories, or memories in your career that sticks out and will always be near and dear to your heart?

So many pops into mind. I had a pretty incredible year doing 4 Broadway shows in a season. My parents saw me in Hello, Dolly! on a Saturday and saw me in Frozen that Tuesday. It was pretty surreal.

Maria Briggs (Photo Credit - Mark J. Franklin)

What advice would you give any aspiring artist who wants a career in the performing arts?

First, always lead with kindness. I think being adaptable is also important. Not with just your talents, but with people. Covers are constantly going on, casts change, and no two people are the same. Lastly, be accountable. We still have a long way to go with diversity, equity, and inclusion. Be there to support it.

To learn more about Maria, make sure you visit her official website at - www.mariabriggs.com

The Music Man, Starring Hugh Jackman, and Sutton Foster is currently performing at The Winter Garden Theatre. For more information please visit - https://musicmanonbroadway.com

Maria Briggs discusses The Music Man, Performing in 4 Broadway shows in 1 Season & Kindness!

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