Jeanna de Waal Says Goodbye to KINKY BOOTS

By Jeanna de Waal

Today, Saturday 13th August 2016, is my last day at Kinky Boots on Broadway, and I couldn't let the moment pass without publicly yelling out my gratitude for the whole experience.

I have loved playing Lauren and I pray on a lucky star that another role like it comes around again. I have witnessed our producers and creative team actively support their actors grow and develop as artists: attending readings of original work, offering advice and granting leaves of absence to pursue passion projects, affording me two of the most artistically fulfilling years of my life.

In an industry so often filled with uncertainty, the 8 show a week schedule has been a privilege I have clung to and cherished. I will miss the cast and crew terribly, and the joy that comes with watching each other navigate through our lives. But most of all, I will miss being part of a show that radiates love, that lifts you up when you are having a bad day and that screams out a message of empathy and acceptance - a message that needs to be heard now louder than ever. There is nothing more uplifting than seeing members of an audience smiling back at you, which is exactly what happens at Kinky Boots every performance. So much love.

Take it away, Haven Burton!

De Waal's Broadway credits include: American Idiot (Heather). Off-Broadway: Carrie (Chris Hargensen). West End: We Will Rock You. National tours: Wicked (Glinda). A.R.T.: Waitress (Dawn), Finding Neverland (Mary Barrie). The Old Globe, San Diego: The Rocky Horror Show (Janet). Edinburgh Fringe UK: Just So (Giraffe). Film/TV: The Devil's Bitch and "B Side." Cast album recordings: Carrie. Jeanna trained at the Arts Educational School, Tring Park, and has a BA (hons.) degree from the Liverpool Institute for the Performing Arts. Thank you Stone Manners Salners. Thank you to my mum, dad and Dani D for all your support.