Podcast Summary: Sentimental Men – Episode 70: The Sky Is Not the Limit (with Mandy Gonzalez)

Release Date: April 14, 2025
Hosted by Quincy Brown and Kevin Bianchi
Guest: Mandy Gonzalez, renowned Broadway actress

Introduction

In Episode 70 of Sentimental Men, Quincy Brown and Kevin Bianchi delve deep into the illustrious career of Mandy Gonzalez, a towering figure in musical theatre known for her powerhouse performances as Elphaba in Wicked and Angelica Schuyler in Hamilton. This episode, aptly titled "The Sky Is Not the Limit," explores Mandy's journey, the challenges she has overcome, and her multifaceted career both on and off the Broadway stage.

Mandy Gonzalez’s Broadway Journey

Early Career and Wicked

Mandy Gonzalez begins her Broadway journey in the ensemble of Aida and later stars in Dance of the Vampires. Her breakthrough came when she joined the original Broadway cast of Wicked as Elphaba, stepping into a role that would define her career.

[16:31] Mandy Gonzalez: "My first touch point with Wicked happened during the first workshop of the first act. Being part of that ensemble was thrilling and exciting."

Mandy recounts her first exposure to Wicked during its workshop phase, where she met key figures like Christian Borle and Celia Keenan-Bolger. The real turning point was attending the Broadway premiere with her parents, witnessing Idina Menzel deliver a mesmerizing performance of "Defying Gravity."

[17:49] Mandy Gonzalez: "Seeing Idina perform was incredible. It solidified Wicked as something truly special right from the start."

Auditioning and Securing the Role

The decision to audition for Elphaba was not straightforward. Mandy was simultaneously involved in other projects, notably In the Heights. Her initial reluctance stemmed from the intense vocal and emotional demands of the role.

[19:56] Mandy Gonzalez: "I was terrified thinking about how much Elphaba sings and how she's on stage the whole time. It felt overwhelming."

However, with encouragement from peers like Idina Menzel and after building her confidence through roles in In the Heights, Mandy decided to embrace the challenge.

[25:18] Mandy Gonzalez: "Taking the role of Elphaba was a dream come true. It was a defining moment in my career."

Challenges and Triumphs as Elphaba

Playing Elphaba was both a joy and a struggle. Mandy discusses the isolation that comes with the role, being on stage for the majority of the performance, and the vocal strain it imposed.

[36:12] Mandy Gonzalez: "The biggest delight was embodying Elphaba’s vulnerability and strength. The biggest challenge was the isolation from the rest of the cast during performances."

She elaborates on techniques she employed to maintain her vocal health and emotional well-being, such as refining her vowel placement and embracing imperfection.

[43:12] Mandy Gonzalez: "Vocally, mastering Elphaba was about understanding my voice's placement and letting go of the need for perfection."

Transition to Hamilton

After two impactful years in Wicked, Mandy transitioned to Hamilton, taking on the role of Angelica Schuyler. This move marked a shift from the solitary nature of Wicked to the collaborative and community-driven environment of Hamilton.

[35:11] Mandy Gonzalez: "With Hamilton, I felt more like an artist within a community rather than an employee. The camaraderie was invigorating."

She highlights the differences in the creative processes between the two shows, emphasizing how Hamilton fostered a sense of belonging and collective artistry.

[46:28] Mandy Gonzalez: "Starting together with the Hamilton cast created a bond that made the experience deeply fulfilling."

Embracing a Multi-Hyphenate Career

Mandy's career is a testament to the modern Broadway artist's need to diversify. Beyond acting, she has ventured into singing, writing, and even authoring young adult novels.

[13:57] Kevin: "You gotta be a multi-hyphenate these days. You gotta be out here."

Mandy reflects on the pressures and benefits of being a multi-hyphenate, acknowledging both the exhaustion and the creative fulfillment it brings.

[14:39] Kevin: "Life is so tiring. It doesn't get easier, I hate to tell you."
[14:50] Mandy Gonzalez: "Being a multi-hyphenate allows me to explore different facets of my creativity, even though it can be exhausting."

Recent Work: Sunset Boulevard

Mandy’s latest venture is a guest star role in Sunset Boulevard. Balancing her professional commitments with personal life, especially motherhood, showcases her ability to navigate the complexities of a demanding career.

[56:10] Mandy Gonzalez: "This show has allowed me to realize that I'm enough, and it's important to ask for what I want."

She discusses the audition process, working with creative talents like Jamie Lloyd, and the joy of performing Andrew Lloyd Webber's iconic music.

[58:29] Mandy Gonzalez: "Sunset Boulevard has been transformative, reinforcing my belief in my worth and the importance of pursuing what truly makes me happy."

Personal Insights and Mentorship

Throughout the discussion, Mandy emphasizes the importance of self-love, perseverance, and mentorship in the performing arts.

[61:36] Mandy Gonzalez: "We are here. I hope that I continue to show that, because I absolutely love what I do."

She shares wisdom imparted by Donna Murphy, highlighting the value of resilience and self-belief.

[62:44] Mandy Gonzalez: "Donna told me, 'You're doing all the right things.' It resonated deeply and kept me moving forward."

Conclusion

In this heartfelt episode, Mandy Gonzalez opens up about her monumental roles, the evolution of her career, and the personal growth that accompanies success in the fiercely competitive world of Broadway. Quincy and Kevin facilitate a conversation that not only celebrates Mandy's achievements but also offers invaluable insights for aspiring theatre artists.

[63:56] Mandy Gonzalez: "I'm so lucky to be doing what I'm doing. It's all about loving the work, even without the constant glory."

Sentimental Men delivers an inspiring narrative of dedication, talent, and the relentless pursuit of artistic excellence, embodied by Mandy Gonzalez's remarkable journey.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Mandy Gonzalez [16:31]: "My first touch point with Wicked happened during the first workshop of the first act. Being part of that ensemble was thrilling and exciting."

• Mandy Gonzalez [19:56]: "I was terrified thinking about how much Elphaba sings and how she's on stage the whole time. It felt overwhelming."

• Mandy Gonzalez [25:18]: "Taking the role of Elphaba was a dream come true. It was a defining moment in my career."

• Mandy Gonzalez [36:12]: "The biggest delight was embodying Elphaba’s vulnerability and strength. The biggest challenge was the isolation from the rest of the cast during performances."

• Mandy Gonzalez [43:12]: "Vocally, mastering Elphaba was about understanding my voice's placement and letting go of the need for perfection."

• Mandy Gonzalez [35:11]: "With Hamilton, I felt more like an artist within a community rather than an employee. The camaraderie was invigorating."

• Mandy Gonzalez [56:10]: "This show has allowed me to realize that I'm enough, and it's important to ask for what I want."

• Mandy Gonzalez [58:29]: "Sunset Boulevard has been transformative, reinforcing my belief in my worth and the importance of pursuing what truly makes me happy."

• Mandy Gonzalez [61:36]: "We are here. I hope that I continue to show that, because I absolutely love what I do."

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