Here, via email, we hear from singing actress Autumn Hurlbert, who currently stars in It's Only Kickball, Stupid, a new play by Caroline Prugh and directed by Adam Fitzgerald, through Sept. 14 at The Hartley House on West 46th Street.
What show recently impressed you?
I did a reading of Fly By Night last fall, and while I didn't actually get the chance to see it at Playwrights Horizons, I think it is one of the most beautiful, unique, heartwarming pieces of theater I have had the pleasure of experiencing. The music is contemporary and ageless at the same time, the writing is poetic and yet accessible, the characters are hilarious and tender... I just can't say enough good things about it. And from what I read in reviews and from the reactions from friends and patrons, it looks like the theater community agreed!!
What production are you most excited to see?
I am most excited to see Fortress of Solitude at the Public!! I think the entire creative team is genius, the cast is unreal and it's just such a good story. I loved the book, and what I have seen from past production photos, it just looks magical!! But, I also have to say I am pretty excited about a little play called It's Only Kickball, Stupid. I heard it's not to be missed!!
What play/musical would you most like to revive on Broadway, and which role would you want to play?
I would actually love to play Ado Annie in Oklahoma! I saw the production that was done at Arena Stage in Washington, DC, and was moved by that version of the show in a way I never expected!! I would also love to play Diana in Next to Normal someday. I am married to a therapist, so I think my character study could be pretty fun!! Also, I have played Sybil Chase in Private Lives twice in the last two years, under the direction of Maria Aitken, and I would LOVE to see that show come back to Broadway.
What are your current/upcoming projects?
Aside from Kickball, I am getting ready to go do The Last Five Years at the Actors Theater in Louisville. Meredith McDonough is directing, and I could not be more excited — Cathy is definitely a dream role!! My husband and I have also recently moved from Astoria into Manhattan, so I have been trying my hand at being a decorator and handy man. Wish me LOTS of luck on that one!!