BWW Exclusive: New York Pops Spotlight on Will Chase

On Monday, April 28, 2014, The New York Pops marks its 31st birthday with a grand gala evening celebrating the work of composer, lyricist, and arranger Marc Shaiman and director, lyricist, and writer Scott Wittman, as well as the leadership and mentorship work of corporate honoree Paul J. Massey, Jr., CEO and Founding Partner of Massey Knakal Realty Services.

The event begins at 7:00 PM with a concert at Carnegie Hall, featuring a spectacular lineup of stars from both stage and screen under the baton of Music DirectorSteven Reineke. The performance will feature highlights from the work of Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman. Performers for the evening will include: Megan Hilty, Laura Bell Bundy, John Pizzarelli, Corey Reynolds, Aaron Tveit, Nikki Blonsky, Christian Borle, Kerry Butler, Will Chase, Linda Hart, Capathia Jenkins, Jane Krakowski, Ricki Lake, Jenifer Lewis, Patti LuPone, Andrea Martin, Katharine McPhee, Martin Short, and Marissa Jaret Winokur. For tickets, viist: www.carnegiehall.org.

BroadwayWorld recently chatted with featured performer Will Chase about his upcoming appearance in the special celebration:

What will you be singing at the gala?

"Here's To Love" with Jane Krakowski. From the movie "Down With Love"

This year's event honors Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman. Do you have a favorite memory of the honorees?

My favorite memory is Marc emailing me (a few hours before I officially got the offer for Smash) with just the subject heading "I know a secret:-)"

Is there a role from a Shaiman/Wittman show that you'd like to play someday?

Maybe Michael Swift in 2 hour SMASH movie?

Have you worked with The New York Pops before? What are you most looking forward to about this performance?

I did. Last year for the 30th Birthday Gala. It's always a bit overwhelming but so gratifying to sing with such an amazing orchestra. And to sing with Jane, that'll be a real treat!

This year's gala will feature music students from The New York Pops' extensive education programs. What single piece of advice would you give to any aspiring performers?

I guess I would say to truly enjoy each performance you give, whether that be at Carnegie Hall or in school or in front of your dog in the living room!