Podcast Summary: "All Of It" - Episode: Orville Peck and Eva Noblezada Star in 'Cabaret'
Podcast Information:
- Title: All Of It
- Host: Alison Stewart
- Description: ALL OF IT is a show about culture and its consumers, aiming to engage thinkers, doers, makers, and creators about the what and why of their work. Hosted by WNYC and Amanda Silveira.
Episode Details:
- Topic: Interview with Orville Peck and Eva Noblezada about their roles in the Broadway production of Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club.
- Release Date: April 10, 2025
Introduction to the Guests and Their Roles
Alison Stewart introduces the episode by welcoming Orville Peck and Eva Noblezada, who have recently taken over roles in the Broadway production of Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club. Orville Peck, known for his country music persona, plays the emcee, making his Broadway debut. Eva Noblezada, a two-time Tony nominee, portrays the charismatic and headstrong Sally Bowles.
Notable Quote:
"Cabaret is a phenomenal show that intertwines the glitz of the Kit Kat Club with the tumultuous rise of fascism in 1930s Berlin."
— Alison Stewart [00:31]
Transitioning to Broadway
The discussion opens with both guests expressing their excitement and the rapid transition into their roles.
- Orville Peck mentions the surprising speed of stepping into the Broadway scene.
- Eva Noblezada shares her lifelong dream of returning to theater after focusing on her music career.
Notable Quotes:
"It feels like we've been doing it for a year already. It's crazy."
— Orville Peck [02:14]
"The chance to come back and do that was an easy yes."
— Eva Noblezada [02:25]
Approaching Iconic Characters
The conversation delves into how both actors approach their respective characters, especially given the legacy of previous portrayals.
- Orville Peck emphasizes the importance of respecting prior interpretations while bringing his unique perspective.
- Eva Noblezada discusses the depth and transformation of Sally Bowles, aiming to humanize her with real emotions and vulnerabilities.
Notable Quotes:
"It's all about making the world. And we have such a collaborative and deeply inspiring director who allows us the opportunity to expand our knowledge."
— Orville Peck [03:06]
"I wanted to bring some of that to the table."
— Eva Noblezada [04:03]
Chemistry Between the Leads
Alison Stewart highlights the palpable chemistry between Orville and Eva, prompting them to share how they met and their first impressions of each other.
- They met in the elevator at Gilbertos during fittings.
- Orville Peck praises Eva's talent and her down-to-earth nature.
- Eva Noblezada commends Orville's authenticity and work ethic.
Notable Quotes:
"He just knows who he is and he goes through life... unapologetically so."
— Orville Peck [08:34]
"She's unbelievably talented... no ego, just easy to work with."
— Eva Noblezada [09:51]
The Unique Stage Setup
The hosts explore the innovative stage setup of Cabaret in the round, discussing how it affects performance dynamics.
- Eva Noblezada describes the challenge of performing where the audience surrounds the stage, necessitating constant energy and presence.
- Orville Peck shares his enjoyment of interacting with the audience from within, enhancing the immersive experience.
Notable Quotes:
"The audience is literally 360 degrees. You have to be shooting that energy out in all directions at all times."
— Eva Noblezada [12:22]
"It's very Sally... breaking the fourth wall gives such a level of realism."
— Orville Peck [13:28]
Character Development and Evolution
The hosts inquire about the evolution of their characters throughout the show.
- Eva Noblezada focuses on the dynamic relationship between the emcee and Sally, exploring themes of resentment and projection.
- Orville Peck aims to portray Sally Bowles with rawness and relatability, ensuring she feels both inspirational and flawed.
Notable Quotes:
"We keep finding new elements to who these people are to one another."
— Eva Noblezada [06:28]
"I just wanted to bring a realness to her and a fleshiness and a rawness."
— Orville Peck [05:01]
Personal Projects and Inspirations
The conversation shifts to discussing Orville Peck's recent work in the film Yellow Rose and his background in country music.
- Orville Peck talks about his passion for country music and his admiration for artists like Carrie Underwood and Willie Nelson.
- Eva Noblezada expresses excitement about Orville's film and his artistic endeavors.
Notable Quotes:
"It's a beautiful movie about a girl with a dream... she's undocumented and living in Austin, Texas."
— Orville Peck [20:11]
"I need to see this. What are we talking about here?"
— Eva Noblezada [17:12]
Balancing Broadway and Personal Life
Topics of maintaining personal identity while immersed in a demanding Broadway production are discussed.
- Orville Peck shares his methods of unwinding, such as coloring, Pilates, and spending time with his fiancé and dog.
- Eva Noblezada talks about activities like drawing and painting to decompress.
Notable Quotes:
"I love to color or I love to do Pilates... and cuddle with my dog."
— Orville Peck [26:37]
"I like to draw and paint as well... find ways to be quiet and not use my voice."
— Eva Noblezada [27:23]
Contemporary Relevance of Cabaret
The guests reflect on the enduring relevance of Cabaret, especially in light of current societal issues like homophobia, anti-Semitism, and rising fascism.
- Orville Peck expresses pride in performing in a queer-friendly space and emphasizes the importance of community.
- Eva Noblezada highlights the show's timeless warnings and its mirror to today's realities, noting the emotional responses from the audience.
Notable Quotes:
"It's really eye-opening and it's really horrible because it's like, don't you see this community?"
— Orville Peck [24:09]
"It's still relevant... serves as a mirror of just what time we're in."
— Eva Noblezada [25:23]
Conclusion
Alison Stewart wraps up the interview by thanking Orville Peck and Eva Noblezada for their insights and contributions to the vibrant cultural landscape of Broadway.
Notable Quote:
"Thank you for having us. It was lovely."
— Orville Peck [28:06]
Key Takeaways:
- Orville Peck and Eva Noblezada bring fresh perspectives to their iconic roles in Cabaret, blending their unique backgrounds in music and theater.
- The in-the-round stage setup enhances audience engagement, requiring constant energy and presence from the performers.
- Cabaret remains highly relevant today, resonating deeply with contemporary social and political issues.
- Balancing demanding performances with personal well-being is crucial for Broadway actors, as demonstrated by both guests.
Notable Quotes Referenced:
- Alison Stewart [00:31], Orville Peck [02:14], Eva Noblezada [02:25], Orville Peck [03:06], Eva Noblezada [04:03], Orville Peck [08:34], Eva Noblezada [09:51], Eva Noblezada [12:22], Orville Peck [13:28], Eva Noblezada [06:28], Orville Peck [05:01], Orville Peck [20:11], Eva Noblezada [17:12], Orville Peck [26:37], Eva Noblezada [27:23], Orville Peck [24:09], Eva Noblezada [25:23], Orville Peck [28:06]
This episode of All Of It offers a deep dive into the artistry and dedication of two standout performers in Broadway's Cabaret, shedding light on their creative processes, personal journeys, and the enduring impact of the show.