BWW Interviews: Karen Olivo Talks Judy Garland at Carnegie Hall

On March 11th the New York Pops (led by Steven Reineke) will celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Judy Garland's iconic 1961 concert at Carnegie Hall. The concert was a comeback of sorts for Garland, who had taken a few years off to rest and recover from various problems. She came back with a bang. The Carnegie Hall show was loved by America, recorded for prosperity and the recording is popular to this day.

Steven Reineke is conducting the concert, which features three remarkable Broadway stars singing Judy's songs. Ashley Brown, Heather Headley and Karen Olivo will be joined by Judy's daughter Lorna Luft for one night only to pay homage to Judy Garland and her music. The show will feature many popular songs such as "Over The Rainbow", "Come Rain or Come Shine" and "The Trolley Song" and also a few that are perhaps not as well known.

BWW had the opportunity to talk to everyone involved in what promises to be a very magical evening, and will be featuring interviews with all the parties during the week leading up to the big event. Today we talk to Karen Olivo, Tony-Award Winner for her role in the recent revival of West Side Story, about what it is like to be part of this historic event:

Congratulations on performing at Carnegie Hall's Judy Garland concert! How did you get involved in the show?

I was approached quite awhile back about doing this concert. I don't know why I was asked but I am definitely not complaining!

Will this be your first time performing at Carnegie Hall?

Yes, this will be my first time. I am so excited.

Were you familiar with Judy's recording before coming on board to do the show?

I was somewhat familiar with the concert but started listening to it regularly on my iPod once I booked the date to do this show.

If you had to pick a favorite song of Judy Garland's, what would it be?

That would be an impossible task! What I admire and love about Judy's recordings are the range they show and the fact that they demonstrate her willingness to sing from where she was emotionally. To choose a favourite would be like picking a favourite sunset - impossible!

How about of the songs you are performing? Is there one in particular you are really looking forward to?

I adored the "You Go To My Head" recording due to its authenticity. And getting to sing it live will be a high point. However, the version of "You're Nearer" that I have been working on really gets me.

A lot of younger readers are perhaps not as familiar with Judy's music (or may not realize it's hers). What would you say to encourage them to come see this show?

We all come from somewhere. And Judy and this style of music is the genesis of quality musical story-telling. She could give you chills without belting E's and F's. She could break your heart with a whisper.

As a singer, do you change anything when you are performing with a full orchestra as opposed to on Broadway?

Singing a song and telling a story with all of those different instruments is a lesson in humility. The sound is bigger than you, the material is bigger than you, thus meaning the experience is bigger than your own experience. I am going to open my ears, open my heart and see where Steve and the New York Pops take me.

Finally, lots of new stuff opening up on Broadway and starting previews - what's on your must-see list?

It's not a musical, but I think that Jerusalem (starring Mark Rylance) is top of my list right now. I was lucky enough to watch him redefine the art form for me in La Bete and I will be there front row to watch him do it again. It will be a challenge getting to the theatre since I will be performing in By The Way, Meet Vera Stark at 2nd Stage, but I am hoping to catch him a few times. That being said, anyone want to help hook me up with tickets? *laughs*

When and Where?
The Great Judy Garland
Carnegie Hall

March 11th, 2011 at 8PM

Tickets range from $16.50 to $106 and can be purchased at the box office, by phone at 212-247-7800 or online here