RAGTIME's Stephanie Umoh discusses the importance of nourishing your enthusiasm for theater!
Kevin Ray Johnson
It is my truest joy to introduce to you the wonderful Stephanie Umoh. Stephanie performed on Broadway in the 2009 revival of Ragtime as Sarah (a performance that earned her a Theatre World Award), Falsettos, Angelica in the National Tour of Hamilton (Angelica Tour), and most recently in the Ensemble of Junk. Other credits for Ms. Umoh include: Fall for Eve, Jerry's Girls, The Show that Goes On, and Clyde n' Bonnie. She has also worked for well-respected regional companies such as The Marriott Theatre, Casa Manana Theatre, A.R.T., Asolo Repertory Theatre, Milwaukee Rep, Drury Lane Theatre, and Pittsburgh CLO, just to name a few.
I remember seeing Stephanie perform in Ragtime like it was yesterday, and it is a performance that has stuck with me for a long time. She is a performer I have admired for many years. She is truly a one of a kind talent with a beautiful spirit to match. I am very happy to have the chance to interview this amazing actress!
How old were you when you knew you wanted to be on the stage and perform?
I was about 16 or 17 years old when I KNEW I wanted to pursue a life in theater. Throughout high school, I was involved in theater as an extracurricular activity and would spend my days after school in rehearsals or learning lines for class. There is one particular memory that sticks out to me. My junior year of high school, we did a production of HONK!, and I played Ida. After a run-through of the show, my theater teacher pulled me aside with tears in her eyes and said, “You are meant to do this!” At that particular point in my life, no adult had ever told me I was good at something. Whether she knew it or not, her comment had the most profound impact on my life. It was then that I decided I would spend my life going after my true love: theater.
Where did you study? Are there any mentors in your life who truly helped you become the amazing artist you are today?
I studied theater at The Boston Conservatory! While in school, I was lucky enough to work professionally in the Boston community and that’s where and how I learned to be a professional actor. Let me tell you something, the Boston theater community is rich and full. There are so many great theaters and so many brilliant actors. Leigh Barret was a role model and mentor to me while I lived in Boston. She is a Boston star! I have always admired her work. She taught me so many valuable lessons in vocal technique, acting, and self-care. We still keep in touch. Another mentor of mine is my agent and friend, Michael Goddard. I have been represented by Michael since the day I stepped foot in New York City. He has always seen something in me. I am truly thankful for all of his guidance and support.
We are living in some unprecedented times in the world. For all artists (especially stage performers), 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?
It’s funny, I haven’t been able to stick to any sort of routine! I am learning a lot about myself during this time. I have learned that what keeps my spirits up is if I have some sort of daily purpose. I am now a list maker! Each morning, I make a small list of things I can accomplish that day. Sometimes I check them all off, sometimes I don’t! I’m finding that coming up with small daily goals has helped me stay motivated and has helped give me a sense of purpose. I also keep thinking about the corset I will need to fit into once theater comes back. The thought of that corset has helped motivate me to stay in shape!
I have truly admired you as a performer for many years. Are there any shows, roles, or performances that will always stick out and be near and dear to your heart?
Ragtime will always be the most magical experience in my theatrical career. It was my Broadway debut. It was where I met some of my lifelong friends. It was my true introduction to New York Theater. The character of Sarah is so special, and it was an absolute honor to get to play her. I will always fondly think back on that time in my life. I treasure it so much.
What advice would you give any aspiring artists in these challenging times?
A lot of theater companies and Broadway shows have made their archival recordings available for free online! Take this time to watch shows you’ve never seen. Read plays. Listen to cast recordings. Take this time to feed your curiosity and to nourish your enthusiasm for theater. We cannot know exactly when, but we will be back stronger than ever.
Check out this video of Stephanie and Jelani Alladin (Disney's Frozen on Broadway & Hercules) perform "Under a Different Sun" from Gun & Powder (Music by Ross Baum and Lyrics by Angelica Chéri)