Kaitlin Lawrence (BFA Musical Theatre ’11) is on her way back to Gainesville to perform as Dorothy Brock in the national tour of 42nd Street. “This show is going to be a blowout,” says Lawrence. The production is directed by Mark Bramble and choreographed by Randy Skinner, the same team who staged the musical’s award-winning revival in 2001.
“It is the quintessential Broadway extravaganza you expect, but with some new additions,” Lawrence says, adding that the idea of returning to Gainesville and walking into the School of Theatre + Dance (SOTD) building melts her heart. “That was my home for four years. I’m especially thankful for the faculty and the wisdom they shared, including Tony Mata for accepting me in the program. I will be forever grateful for that.”
When asked what advice she would give to herself during college if she could go back she says, “ I would tell myself that you are good enough; trust the process, hit your mark and sing pretty.” These words of wisdom are a great reminder to every young, aspiring actor and seem to be working for Lawrence. In addition, she encourages actors to “take care of yourself and find passions between the shows.” For her, that passion is yoga.
“I always bring my yoga mat wherever I go, so I can get my zen on anywhere,” she says.
The 42nd Street tour starts in Salt Lake City on Sept. 22, 2015 and will be at the Phillips Center in Gainesville on Jan. 19, 2015. For tickets and a chance to see a UF SOTD alumna on stage, visit performingarts.ufl.edu/events/42nd-street.
