Interview: Brittany Williams of A BRONX TALE the National Tour at The National Theatre

Thanks so much for taking time out of your busy tour schedule to talk with Broadway World today. Can you tell us a little about your journey that lead to this show/tour?

After High School In North Carolina, I moved to NYC, and went to AMDA in NYC. Then, after graduating AMDA I went to the AIley School of Dance. Following that, I just started auditioning. The first show I booked was Annie Get Your Gun at Westchester Broadway Theatre, then Mamma Mia at Arkansas Repertory Theatre. I first auditioned for A Bronx Tale in December of 2017. I was called in again for the show in June 2017, while I was still non-union and did not have an agent. Finally, I booked it after many callbacks! It was amazing!

What is your role as a "swing" in the show and what tracks do you cover?

This is my first time as a swing. A swing covers multiple ensemble tracks. If anyone is sick or can't do the show for any reason (even during the show), the swing covers it. I am the only female swing in this show. I cover 4 tracks (both Webster girls, both Italian ensemble girls). There was one time I had to step in mid-show because the lead girl had to step out of the show, so one of the Webster girls took that part, and I had to jump into the Webster girl's role. In that moment Adrenalin pumped in, but when the time came to step on stage I became very calm and felt ready to perform. It was a great experience to have as a swing.

How was the rehearsal process in terms of working with this incredible creative team (Chazz Palminteri, Alan Menken, Glenn Slater, Robert DeNiro, Jerry Zaks)?

It was such a blessing to be in that room with that creative team. While they worked with the cast, the swing table was behind them taking notes. Whenever I could I would get up and do the movements with them. It was so incredible to soak up everything this team had to say. This was such a great rehearsal process, because they set up the space so close to how the stage actually was. It was definitely very cool to watch everything go down.

Can you talk about your tour schedule and how that works?

So, we travel to each new city by bus or plane. In some cities we stay for three to four weeks, while in other cities we stay for one week. We do 8 shows a week. All of our set pieces travel by bus. Monday is our travel day, Tuesday is opening night with an evening show. So we have Monday to get settled in the new city, Tuesday during the day to explore the city we're in, and Tuesday night is our first performance of the week.

How is it being able to see the country on tour and what are your thoughts about arriving in our nation's capital for the week?

First, it's amazing to do what I love and do this job while being able to tour the country, and see new places. It's also incredible to be able to explore these places with my tour family and friends/family in the area. I'm so excited to be in D.C. this week, and to be reliving my childhood. I grew up in Maryland and I'm excited to see the city with new eyes and be able to perform there.

What is your absolute favorite song in the show and why?

I really love "In a World Like This". I love the romantics in the song and it's such a great love duet/ballad in the show. We all sing backstage. It's a beautiful moment in the show.

What is A Bronx Tale about and why should audiences come to see this show?

A Bronx Tale is centered around Calogero and his coming of age story. Calogero is torn between two father figures (Sonny and his father Lorenzo). Also, there is a forbidden love story between Calogero and Jane. They live in a world where their love is not seen as right. Everyone should see it because it's a show about family, tolerance, and loving each other. It has relevant messages with what is going on in our world today and I think everyone can leave feeling good after seeing this incredible show.

Any other comments/thoughts to share with us and our readers on your journey.

I hope everyone comes to see A Bronx Tale. We have worked so hard and you never know, the day you see the show I might be swinging in for one of the roles!

Brittany Williams (Swing) is overjoyed to be performing in her first National Tour! She is an Ailey School and AMDA NY alumnus. Regional: Mamma Mia! at Arkansas Repertory Theatre, Annie Get Your Gun at Westchester Broadway Theatre. Glory to God! Thanks to my family, teachers, Tara Rubin Casting, and the BXT team!

For tickets to A Bronx Tale at the National Theatre please visit: TheNationalDC.com

Tickets may also be purchased in person at the National Theatre Box Office (weekdays from noon to 6:00 PM), or by calling 1-800-514-3849. The National Theatre is located at 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW in downtown Washington, D.C.

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