Meet the Stars of NYMF: Devin ILaw of WEARING BLACK

New York Musical Theatre Festival is in full swing and BroadwayWorld has taken the time to sit down with some of the stars of this years NYMF musicals.

Like any great art form, musical theatre is shaped by the events and philosophies of the day. The strength and vitality of musical theatre lie in its ability to stay fresh and relevant. It was with that idea in mind, ten years ago, that the New York Musical Theatre Festival (NYMF) was created - to provide an effective platform to introduce new shows, new perspectives, and new blood into the musical theatre canon.

MEET THE STARS OF NYMF sits down with Devin ILaw of WEARING BLACK

What's your favorite thing about performing as part of NYMF?

My favorite thing about performing as part of NYMF is the creative and collaborative process. I have the honor of going to work every day with other committed and passionate artists who are full of ideas and opinions, and together we play, learn, argue, grow, evolve, and get to bring this incredible story to life and make beautiful music (but seriously, Riley Thomas' Score and Lyrics!!! #iliterallycanteven). It is a dream come true.

Have you participated in NYMF before? If so, what's your favorite part and what drew you back to the festival?

I've never done NYMF before! I'm a virgin! For once. Haha!

What other NYMF show are you most intrigued by or excited to see?

I'm excited for CLAUDIO QUEST! I'm a friend of composer Drew Fornorola's and once sang Luis' song "Player Number 2" at Lincoln Center in concert. His music is fun and catchy and I love the video game idea... which is funny since I get to play video games onstage in WEARING BLACK too.

Tell us about your show/your character?

Oh boy, where to begin? WEARING BLACK is a dark, unapologetic tale of loss and grief; how we all internalize those emotions, or run away from them. I play Evan. At top of show, my twin brother Charlie has just died after years of drug use and reckless living. With Charlie's death, I no longer have a sense of identity. Since I no longer have to clean up for his messes and screw-ups, I suddenly find myself spiraling downward into drugs and anger, dragging my closest friends and family down with me; all in my quest to understand my dead twin brother. In celebrating yet refusing to grieve Charlie's death, I have started to become him, and that is terrifying. The events of the show become an unbelievable roller coaster, and Evan's arc and journey to the darkest depths is unlike anything I've ever encountered as an actor. I am so thankful to get to tell this story, and I've have learned both as Evan the character and as Devin the actor that the key to finding hope and strength is in the resilience and love of the amazing people around me. The entire company of WEARING BLACK is truly an astounding group of artists. What a blessing!