Music Theatre alum Ethan Andersen ’14 shares his experiences as he hits the road starting in January 2016.
Ethan Andersen ’14 has made a big splash in the theatre world since graduation, performing in and music directing many regional shows, New York productions, cabaret performances, and writing, composing, music directing, and starring off-Broadway in his original work “Headvoice.”
Up next is the national tour of “Saturday Night Fever,” and Andersen is ecstatic to be touring as music director and conductor for the production.
Andersen describes that his process for being offered this job was a bit different than an audition-callback situation that normally happens for actors. “Most of the creative team was in place, and my name and resume were luckily passed along to the music supervisor,” Andersen said. “After some interviewing, I met with the creative team, discussing the show, my role, and seeing if we would collaborate well. After they decided it’d be a good fit, I finally ‘auditioned’ by playing some callback auditions.”
On his responsibilities as music director and conductor: “In the rehearsal room, my responsibilities include teaching the score and addressing any musical needs. I’ll also be the link between the cast and the band, especially as we work with our music supervisor’s new arrangements. On tour, I’ll be conducting and playing the show every night. Since I’ll be the only member of the creative team on the road, it’ll also be my responsibility along with our stage manager to make sure the show is staying the way the rest creative team left it.”
When asked about his view towards his training at Elon, Andersen said Elon’s music theatre program does a terrific job with audition prep and helping students figure out their strengths and where they fit as an individual and unique performer.
“The best prep I received was learning to take advantage of any and all opportunities and experiences,” he said. “At Elon, there are a million ways to get involved and work on your craft even if it’s not front stage center. The same is true of the ‘real world.’ I’ve had countless experiences that I could’ve viewed as pointless or a waste of time. Instead, I’ve learned to take something away from each one and focus on how it can make me a better artist and person.
“Additionally, use your training in music theatre as you write, music direct, etc. I believe I am a better music director and composer because I understand how music needs to tell the story and work with the actors onstage. Our training is a gift, so use it!”
Andersen’s tour kicks off Jan. 15. Visit this link to see if Andersen and the national tour of “Saturday Night Fever” will be coming to a theatre near you: