We’ll soon get to see local singer Laura Bueno return to Lyric for her first ever lead role, as Gigi. Laura most recently stole all her scenes as Petra in Lyric’s production of A Little Night Music and as Hope in Anything Goes. She regularly performs with musical theatre companies all over town and in the San Diego Opera Chorus, and somehow finds time to teach ballroom dance to kids.
Laura was nice enough to inaugurate our new “Five Questions” feature. Watch this space to see featured artists answer these same questions all season long.
When did you know you wanted to be in musical theatre? Thanks to my parents, I grew up watching the classics, such as The Music Man, Carousel, Meet Me in St. Louis, The King and I, and Gigi. I was hooked on them. When my high school did The Music Man my freshman year of high school, that was it - I knew I was in it for life! As a junior and senior, I had the opportunity to star in No, No, Nanette and State Fair, two musicals that aren't done very often.
Did you have a mentor? Who was it, and what did he or she do to encourage you?
I've always been inspired by my grandmother, who sang professionally for several years in the 1930s here in Southern California, but who died when I was 8 years old. I have always felt a closeness to her and I know that she's looking down and approves of my career choices. I'd also have to say that my mother has been my biggest cheerleader. She's been to every single one of my performances and has encouraged me to follow my dreams.
What’s the most unusual or useful advice you’ve ever received concerning your career?
Hmm... I'd have to say that the most useful is that people have always said to not give up. Rejection is part of the process, regardless of how good you might be. Also, don't ever stop studying your craft. There is always room for improvement.
What do you think most people would be surprised to know about working in musical theatre?
It truly is a tricky and complicated job. You've got to be able to sing, dance and act and completely become a character and make that character your own regardless of how cheesy the plot might be. There are no second takes like in television and film. You've got to go out there and make every single performance better than the last. I'm not sure if that's really surprising, but it sure is true!
If you could have a different job, what would it be?
I wouldn't want a different job! If I could be in a show all the time, I'd be in heaven. I'd pretty much pick starring in a show over anything else.
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