An Interview with Diana DeGarmo

Diana DeGarmo won audience votes week after week on "American Idol" and now she takes you back to the '60's, making her Broadway debut as Penny Pingleton in Hairspray. At only 16 years old, DeGarmo came in second to Fantasia Barrino on the third season of the FOX hit television series "American Idol." DeGarmo, now 18, recently starred as Maria in West Side Story at the American Musical Theatre in San Jose. In January, she was recognized by NAMM, The International Music Products Association, with the Music for Life Award for her advocacy on Capitol Hill for music and television in schools. Her debut CD, Blue Skies, was released by RCA Records on December 7th, 2004. 

Nick Orlando: Diana, I am a big fan, congratulations on your Broadway debut! How is it appearing on Broadway?

Diana DeGarmo: First off, it's a lot of fun. I have the easiest job in the world! It's an excuse to get up there, goof around and have fun. 

Nick Orlando: Describe your character, Penny?

Diana DeGarmo: Penny is a dear sweet girl who loves her best friend, [Tracy]. She thinks she's cool like everyone else. Penny is kind of geeky, but will do anything for Tracy. 

Nick Orlando: How was it preparing for the role?

Diana DeGarmo: It was really quick. I only had two weeks of rehearsals. I never realized how fast people get "thrown in." I had two great teachers and picked up things quickly. I was nervous. Once I had people on stage and we interacted, everything fell into place.

Nick Orlando: How does this process compare with Idol? 

Diana DeGarmo: This is a lot less stressful! With "American Idol," you are on your toes a lot. People don't realize the amount of work. When I came to Hairspray, everyone was very welcoming. I'm part of the crew! It's a good thing.

Nick Orlando: Diana, you spent this past holiday season on tour supporting the troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. How does the war affect you personally? 

Diana DeGarmo: I have a brother who has been overseas for two tours. I've been very fortunate that he has come home safely. Whether or not you support the war, always support our soldiers. 

Nick Orlando: Tell me about the special place "American Idol" has in your heart since the show launched your career.

Diana DeGarmo: "American Idol" has done a lot for me. It's a stepping stone in my life, just like this show [Hairspray]. "American Idol" is a hard process. I've made life long friends.

Nick Orlando: Your mom supported you through "American Idol," how active is she in your career? 

Diana DeGarmo: She's very active. My mom is my manager and handles day-to-day business to keep the DeGarmo machine up and running! She's a huge, huge part of my career and my life.
 
Nick Orlando: When will you be going back into the studio?

Diana DeGarmo: I was in the studio before I came to Hairspray. I'm still able to do some recording and have some time to play and enjoy the city. I made friends, so I am not by myself!

Nick Orlando: Is there any one particular artist you would consider doing a duet with? 

Diana DeGarmo: That's a tough one, but I would have to say Justin Timberlake because I have been a fan since middle school and he has such a great voice. He's been at the top of my list for a while and who wouldn't want to sing with him! 

Nick Orlando: Who influenced you?

Diana DeGarmo: That's hard because there are so many people. My mom did a good job exposing me to different types of music, but I would say Celine Dion and Patsy Kline. I love them both and Patsy passed on way before her time.

Nick Orlando: Now, you're in Hairspray until May 14th, what follows? 

Diana DeGarmo: I will be going on tour with Brooklyn from June until August. Melba Moore will be joining us! I am very excited. I get to belt out!

Nick Orlando: Diana, it's time for "Three with Nick."  I am going to ask you three questions, tell me the first thing that comes to mind! 

Favorite New York Restaurant: I have recently become a fan of Burger Joint inside the Le Parker Meridian!

Favorite Store: H&M is at the top of the list, hands down! We don't have them down in the south. 

Favorite Food: I love everything, but I became a big sushi fan. Sushi Samba all the way.

Nick Orlando: Diana, again congratulations on your Broadway debut and I wish you the best of luck.

Diana DeGarmo: Thank you. 

Other "Idols" on Broadway include Frenchie Davis in Rent and Josh Strickland in the upcoming musical, Tarzan. Hairspray plays Tuesday and Thursday at 7pm, Wednesday at 2pm, Friday and Saturday at 8pm, Saturday at 2pm, Sunday at 1:30pm and 6:30pm at the Neil Simon Theatre.

For more information about Hairspray, visit www.hairsprayonbroadway.com or for tickets, contact Ticketmaster at (212) 307-4100.