BWW Interviews: Creating Luisa for U.S. Premiere of Broadway-Bound ZORRO The Musical

After interviewing Derek Smith, who plays the title role in the Broadway-bound ZORRO The Musical, Broadway World Salt Lake City Contributing Editor Blair Howell discusses the Luisa character with Jacquelyne Jones, who created the role for the U.S. premiere at the Hale Centre Theatre.

Her portrayal is heralded by both the local press and audiences. "Jones is a vibrant actress with a lovely singing voice," wrote the reviewer for The Deseret News. "(Smith and Jones) leave a lasting impression and give the enthused audience much to cheer about." Smith's solo, "The Man Behind the Mask," is "strongly sung with great emotion."

Tell me about creating the role of Luisa.

Luisa is not your typical ingénue. She has a bit of spice that adds a layer of intrigue to her innocence and vulnerability. I wanted to find that certain Latin flavor that I knew she embodied. I made sure to constantly look for moments where I could show the strength and power she has while at the same time remaining composed and dignified. She's a woman who is educated but at the same time new to the idea of true love. It was so exciting to discover those moments in the show where I knew she was experiencing feelings of infatuation and excitement for the first time. I tried to find ways to show that honestly and stay true to who she was.

What is your favorite part of the show?

My favorite moment in the show is "The Entrada" at the opening of act two. This is where you see (Zorro's evil brother) Roman completely consumed with his own fears and insecurities while the amazing vocals of the gypsies surround him. The entire experience, both audibly and visually, is incredibly powerful. The cries of the gypsies around him signify the torment he has caused his people as well as himself, and the ensemble does such a sensational job of executing that emotional journey.

What was the moment that told you "I want to be an actor"?

My sister frequently jokes with our friends and family about when we were younger and would sit together in our living room watching TV. She said that I would only sit to watch/sing/act out the commercials between programs. Afterward, I would walk around and distract myself with something else. It was clear to everyone that I would chose to be an actor later in life. From a very young age, I realized that I was at my happiest when performing for others. I love the idea of knowing that what I do on stage can influence someone I have never met. Theater is so incredibly universal in that way. The connection that an actor has with the audience is a beautiful one.

What has been your favorite role?

If I had to pick a favorite role of mine, I'd have to say Hope Cladwell in URINETOWN THE MUSICAL. Not only is it a hilariously satirical musical filled with surprisingly poignant messages, it transcends the sometimes distant idea of hope. Hope was a role I had wanted to play for years so when auditions rolled around, I didn't hesitate! I remember being in the callback singing "Follow your Heart" with (my friend) Jim Goza who went on to play my Bobby Strong and realizing, "Wow, we just got the role." We both admired the "doe-eyed" innocence of the characters and wanted to tap into that honestly and were lucky to experience it so quickly!

What is your dream role?

There are so many roles I would die to play, but the one I always go back to over others is Dot in SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE. It's perhaps my favorite musical of all time. I consider Stephen Sondheim a genius, and I absolutely adore his music. The deeply emotional laments that Dot has throughout the show are just so juicy! I would love to get my hands on that role someday and run with it!

Jones' credits include Rona in THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE, Sophia in TEA WITH MINT OR LEMON? and Ballet Girl in THE ELEPHANT'S GRAVEYARD.

For more information on the U.S. premiere of ZORRO The Musical at the Hale Centre Theatre, visit http://www.halecentretheatre.org/productionpages/nowplaying.php. The ZORRO The Musical website is http://www.zorro.com/et-musical.html.

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