From Buenos Aires to the Big Apple: Catherine Kaplan's Journey in New York's Musical Scene

Catherine Kaplan, a young performer from Argentina, now calls New York City home after completing her studies in Los Angeles. Graduating with a Bachelor's of Fine Arts with honors, she wrapped up her time in L.A after her appearance in the beloved Christmas-special show "The Polar Express". Now, Catherine, is hungry for refining her craft while immersing herself in the New York City's breathtaking theater scene.

Catherine began her singing and acting career when she was only six years old. She joined a professional youth choir in Argentina performing at important choir conferences and venues like the Philharmonic of Berlin. Her vocal ability and passion for singing encouraged her to pursue a career in the arts, leading her to star in productions of Grease, Shrek and Aladdin.

Catherine’s dedication to the craft was clear enough she decided to attend a prestigious conservatory program in New York City. After graduating from AMDA New York City and AMDA Los Angeles, she is a well-rounded performer and producer. From composing her original music on Spotify, with two-singles "Father Listen" and "Ya son las 6", to starring roles in productions like 'Beehive', she's been carving her path in the entertainment scene for years.

In New York City, Catherine headlined in performances at recognized venues such as "Triad Theater","The Vino Theatre",  and "The Sid Gold’s Request Room" with the "Let’s Broadway" team, who recruited her through auditions on Playbill. At these venues, Catherine stood out singing her original songs, as well as Musical Theater and Pop covers.

Catherine was recently dancing atop a moving train, infusing every step with holiday cheer for delighted audiences. This was the scene during her last role in Perris, California, with the Polar Express train ride experience, by Warner Bros. While the train itself is a beloved Christmas tradition, it was Catherine's presence, together with a great cast, that added such enchantment to the experience.

When Catherine heard this company was looking for talent, she wasted no time. Sending in her info and resume, she was selected right away, thrown into the whirlwind of rehearsals at La Mirada Theater. In just four days, they pieced together the entire show, mastering choreography and improvisation skills, to create a magical scenario for the young audience members. 

As a 100% musical experience, songs filled the air, but it was the interactive nature of the show that truly captivated Catherine as a performer. From handing out hot chocolate to kids to engaging with different cast members on each show, the adaptability required was immense.

"For instance, I had to collaborate with various actors playing Santa Claus in each show due to the multiple casts, making it very challenging to perform alongside people I barely knew."

With three to five shows a day, stamina was essential, and Catherine, one of the few Latina actresses, embraced the challenge. Working primarily with a cast of mainly Americans and in English was a new experience, but Catherine's Brazilian background also proved invaluable when Portuguese-speaking tourists attended, adding an extra layer of magic to the performance.

Dancing on a moving train required rigorous training, especially during rehearsals when the drivers themselves were still finding their rhythm. But for Catherine, it was all part of the thrill.

Transmitting the emotional depth of Christmas to the audience was no easy feat, but seeing their joy was the ultimate reward for Catherine. And her journey to this moment was no small feat either.

"The theme of Christmas is so emotional and profound that delivering its message to the audience was quite a challenge for me. Maintaining character and being the one to transmit the Christmas spirit is something that requires a lot of responsibility specially when performing for children. It was very rewarding to see the audience excited throughout the show," Catherine recounts.

For Catherine, preparation is key, and with hard work and faith, she believes everything falls into place when it's meant to. But above all, it's about inspiring others and bringing moments of happiness to their lives.

"What's meant to come will come. For me, preparation is key. I make sure to practice my craft every day and remind myself to stay positive. The important thing is to keep on growing and knocking on doors. 
As an artist, I care about conveying emotions in the most raw and genuine possible way, bringing audiences to a moment of realization or happiness.
That's what the craft is all about".