BroadwayRadio Special Episode Summary: Erica Swindell and Jack Wesley Gerhardt on Why ‘Once’ is a Holiday Show
Introduction
In this special episode of BroadwayRadio, host Matt Tammini engages in an insightful conversation with Erica Swindell and Jack Wesley Gerhardt, the stars of the upcoming production of Once at the Malta Jupiter Theater in Jupiter, Florida. Running from December 3rd through December 15th, 2024, this production offers a unique twist by positioning Once as a holiday show. Both Erica and Jack bring a wealth of experience to the table, having participated in various iterations of the show previously, although never together until now.
‘Once’ as a Holiday Show
Matt Tammini opens the discussion by addressing why Once, not traditionally recognized as a holiday show, is an excellent choice for the festive season. He poses the question of why audiences seeking a holiday vibe should consider attending Once amid the plethora of traditional Christmas productions.
Erica Swindell responds thoughtfully, emphasizing the show's exploration of holiday themes like togetherness and family. At [01:51], she states:
“I think, honestly, if you think about holiday togetherness and family and how that closeness makes you feel, I think that this show explores that in kind of unconventional ways. And by the end of it, it makes you incredibly grateful for the people that you have in your life.”
Jack Wesley Gerhardt echoes this sentiment, highlighting the musical aspect of the show. At [02:19], he adds:
“This show is all about the music. So if you're... you can get that same feeling that you get with your traditional Christmas songs that you're used to, but it's just a different soundtrack, but it has the same feeling of people coming together and making music and singing.”
Leveraging Past Experiences for a Fresh Production
Both Erica and Jack have extensive histories with Once, having participated in various productions—including the original Broadway run and multiple national tours. Matt inquires about how their past experiences inform their current performance, especially with new collaborators and a different director.
Jack reflects on his journey, noting a personal transformation over the years. At [03:03], he shares:
“I've been going through a bit of a shedding process because I did the show in two different types of cast and in, you know, three different roles. And so it's kind of a lot of years of things that are in my memory bank.”
He emphasizes the importance of staying present and open to new interpretations under director Mark’s guidance:
“We just have to listen to each other and really be in the moment and allow, you know, know that what was is still there, but it's more interesting to figure out what is.”
Erica adds that the strength of the material allows for rediscovery and collaboration with a new cast:
“Finding that the material is so strong that it really allows you to... If you're in it, if you're. If you're breathing it, you know, every day. It's so much fun to rediscover with a new cast and new people.”
The Cast as a Band: Building Musical Cohesion
A pivotal discussion centers on the necessity for the cast to function cohesively as a band, ensuring the musical integrity of the show. Matt probes into how combining musical and theatrical elements enhances the production.
Jack explains the importance of musical unity, stating at [06:12]:
“This show doesn't work if the entire cast isn't playing together as if they're a band. Because when you play in a band, you listen more and it's not about what you're playing, it's about the entire sound in the room.”
Erica concurs, praising the musicians' proficiency:
“All the musicians, actors that they hired are so good at their instruments, except for one.”
Collaboration and Artistic Comparisons
In a playful exchange, Matt asks Erica to compare Jack to Don Henley, leading to humorous banter. Erica gleefully responds:
“They've been calling me the Don Henley of South Florida.”
Jack humbly declines the comparison, appreciating the unique collaboration they share:
“I'm going to respectfully decline to pick one.”
This moment underscores the mutual respect and camaraderie between the cast members.
Working with the Music Director
The role of the music director, Maggie Hollenbeck, is highlighted as crucial to maintaining the show's musical authenticity. Jack expresses gratitude for Maggie's expertise and her ability to bridge past and present musical interpretations:
“She knows what was and is able to get as close to that as we can while also being honoring the people that are playing the roles now.”
Personal Growth and Artistic Expansion
Both Erica and Jack discuss how Once allows them to explore facets of their artistry beyond their day-to-day roles. Erica reflects on the show's unique blend of acting and music, which aligns with her diverse talents:
“Everything you like to do as a performer, you just get to do in this show.”
Jack shares his passion for integrating acting and musicianship, finding Once to be a rare and magical experience:
“There is nothing quite so full as being able to do all of the things that I love to do all at once.”
Rehearsals and Camaraderie
The camaraderie among the cast during rehearsals is portrayed as a blend of professionalism and fun. Jack describes the rehearsal process as akin to an "adult summer camp," fostering a sense of family and friendship:
“It's very fun. You know, we're all kind of around the same age, which is really fun. And I don't know, it's kind of like a little reunion.”
Personal Insights and Florida Experiences
The conversation shifts to personal experiences, with both actors sharing their affinity for performing in Florida during the milder months. Erica humorously mentions her reluctance to try parasailing, while Jack enjoys the relaxed environment:
“Where we are in January and November, December is fantastic. I mean, look at it outside right now where I'm from. So that's nice.”
Favorite Moments and Final Thoughts
As the discussion wraps up, both Erica and Jack express excitement and appreciation for the show's intimate musical moments. Erica encourages audiences to arrive early to experience the pre-show Irish trad session:
“Make sure you show up a good 25 minutes early. There is a real Irish trad session... that's probably my favorite moment.”
Jack adds his admiration for the performers, particularly highlighting the portrayal of David Luckman:
“The guy who plays David... he crushes. It’s incredible.”
Conclusion
Matt concludes the interview by expressing his eagerness to see the production and wishes both Erica and Jack a successful run. The episode encapsulates the heart and soul that Erica and Jack bring to Once, emphasizing its unique position as a holiday show that celebrates togetherness through music and storytelling.
Key Takeaways:
- Once offers a heartfelt exploration of holiday themes through music and narrative.
- The cast’s ability to function cohesively as a band is fundamental to the show's success.
- Past experiences with Once enrich the current production, allowing for fresh perspectives.
- Strong collaboration and mutual respect among cast members enhance the overall performance.
- The production provides a platform for artistic growth, blending acting and musicianship seamlessly.
Notable Quotes:
- Erica Swindell [01:51]: “This show explores [holiday togetherness] in unconventional ways... makes you incredibly grateful for the people that you have in your life.”
- Jack Wesley Gerhardt [02:19]: “It has the same feeling of people coming together and making music and singing.”
- Erica Swindell [03:58]: “The material is so strong that it really allows you to rediscover with a new cast and new people.”
- Jack Wesley Gerhardt [06:12]: “The entire cast isn't playing together as if they're a band... it's about the entire sound in the room.”
- Erica Swindell [16:27]: “Make sure you show up a good 25 minutes early... that's probably my favorite moment.”
Don’t miss the chance to experience Once at the Malta Jupiter Theater this holiday season—where music and magic create an unforgettable theatrical celebration.