DeepSummary
In this episode, host Laverne Cox has an intimate conversation with Tony award-winning actor Alex Newell. They discuss Alex's journey from singing in church as a child to landing a role on Glee and eventually winning a Tony for their performance in the Broadway musical Shucked. Alex reflects on the influence of legendary singers like Jennifer Holliday and Nell Carter on their vocal style.
Alex opens up about the challenges they faced in the industry, including not getting accepted into any conservatories despite their immense talent. They also share insights into their unique vocal anatomy and the importance of working with vocal coaches to maintain and cultivate their gift. The episode delves into Alex's process of building characters through physicality and embodying roles written specifically for them.
Laverne and Alex celebrate the groundbreaking nature of Alex's Tony win as one of the first non-binary actors to receive the honor. They also touch on the significance of having a supportive family and community from a young age, which fostered Alex's sense of worthiness and authenticity.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- Alex Newell's extraordinary vocal talent and perseverance allowed them to overcome industry barriers and make groundbreaking strides as a non-binary artist.
- Cultivating one's gift through dedicated practice, vocal training, and studying legendary artists is essential for growth and longevity as a performer.
- Having a supportive family and community from a young age can foster a sense of worthiness and authenticity, which is invaluable for artists.
- Embracing honesty and vulnerability, even when it's difficult, is crucial for personal and artistic growth.
- Paying homage to those who came before while putting one's own unique spin on iconic works is a hallmark of great artistry.
- Building characters through physicality and embodying roles written specifically for one's talents is a key aspect of Alex's process as a musical theater artist.
- Maintaining a sense of joy and appreciation for one's gifts, akin to Leontyne Price's love for her voice, is essential for sustained fulfillment as a performer.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “You will pay homage to those that have come before. You still have your own twist on what was there. And that's how I want to do any song that's already iconic.“ by Alex Newell
- “For me, it's just a testimony to what talent. That your talent is just so big that it transcends all of the supposed limitations. The talent is so undeniable that you've just transcended.“ by Laverne Cox
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Episode Information
The Laverne Cox Show
Shondaland Audio and iHeartPodcasts
11/9/23