Lauren Boyd
Lauren Boyd
Hamilton
Lauren Boyd is a part of the Broadway company of Hamilton. She graciously answered some questions regarding her acting journey, as well as her experience with the effects of COVID-19 on the Broadway community.
Q: Tell me about yourself and your background. Where are you from?
A: My name is Lauren Boyd, I am originally from Southern California, born and raised, but live currently in New York City. I trained as a classical ballet dancer growing up and am on Broadway as an ensemble member and understudy for Peggy Schuyler/Maria Reynolds.
Q: What show are you currently in, and how long have you worked with the company?
A: I am currently in Hamilton on Broadway as an ensemble member and understudy for Peggy Schuyler/Maria Reynolds.
I have been with the company for just over three years now. My first rehearsal day was election day.
Q: Is Hamilton your first Broadway show?
A: Yes… Hamilton is my Broadway debut.
Q: What is your role in Hamilton? Do you cover multiple tracks?
A: I am an ensemble member and understudy for Peggy Schuyler/Maria Reynolds.
Q: What do you think makes Hamilton the show that it is? (music, costumes, actors, etc.)
A: It's everything. From the music, the lyrics, the choreography to the actors, musicians, crew and ushers. Everyone puts their heart and soul into every performance. Not a one person isn't valuable. The fact that we get to tell a story of a nation that was created by unity, is so special and we carry that with us to the theatre. "ONE nation under God. Indivisible. With liberty and justice for ALL"
Q: How/when did you begin your theatre journey? Was there someone who inspired you to become an actor?
A: My mom has been a HUGE inspiration to me. I knew early on, what she had to give up and sacrifice for my dreams. I don't take that lightly and continue to try to make her proud.
Q: When did you decide you wanted to pursue theatre as a career?
A: I didn't decide to pursue musical theater until I was eighteen years old. I was just out of high school and figuring out what to do with my life. I knew I wanted to dance and had just been accepted to two different ballet companies for their year round program, "Pacific Northwest Ballet" in Seattle and "Lines Ballet" in San Francisco. I decided I didn't want to stand at a ballet bare the rest of my life, but to try for musical theatre and see if I could make it, as a more contemporary style dancer.
Q: What was your audition process like for Hamilton?
A: It was long and grueling. I spent many days at Ripley Grier studios learning the choreography and songs. I could tell they liked me, but it wasn't until one of the original cast member's position opened up, that I was able to fill in for that role. I feel honored and proud that my hard work paid off.
Q: Do you think that through the choreography and music you’ve learned for the show, you find yourself a little in each role or song you perform in?
A: I don't think Andy Blankenbueler would have hired me, if I didn't put myself into my work. He casts individuals who are strong, powerful and know how to story tell. I have an aloofness as well as other qualities, that he really accentuates, in the vocabulary of the movement.
Q: Did you think that the impact COVID-19 has had on Broadway has changed your feelings towards the business?
A: Not at all. I'm proud of the way our community has handled this current situation. We are forced to become more creative and imaginative and I think it's a blessing in disguise that we have this extra time. I don't want to take away from the gravity of covid-19. It is horrific and has caused a lot of havoc. But I know that we will pull through and Broadway will be stronger than ever… Changed… But in the best way.
Q: How has the virus impacted you as an artist?
A: I'm a hugger. I am devastated that I can't show love to people the way I used to. It's forcing me to become a better communicator and to practice other skills. Such as social media. I have more time for my outreach program "Broadway Babes" blessing senior citizens (@bway.babes) and more time to mentor young aspiring actors all across the globe.
Q: When the virus began to spread did you anticipate Broadway closing?
A: Yes… As soon as the NBA shut down, I knew it was not "if" but "when" Broadway would shut down. I knew it was just a matter of time. I didn't however, anticipate it being done so quickly. But I'm glad it was done quickly and efficiently for everyone's safety. The cast, crew, musicians, ushers and audience.
Q: What are some things the break from work has given you a chance to focus on?
A: It's allowing time for my body to rest. It took several weeks of this quarantine for my body to finally slow down and relax. I'm so used to being on the go all the time… That New York mentality… that I think it's necessary to refocus and collect.
Q: How have you stayed connected within your communities throughout this time?
A: Yes… We have a Hamilton Zoom meeting every week with the cast and creative team. It's nice to see that Lin, Tommy and Alex all continue to care about our well being and continue to guide us through these uncertain times.
Q: Do you have any advice for aspiring actors and artists?
A: Keep working hard, keep pushing. Don't let fear and anxiety hold you back. Set your goals, have intention and do one thing every day that will lead to your dreams.
