Take Five! with Helen Hayes nominated Ensemble members

In theatre, an ensemble is the equivalent of a jazz combo, where people are listening so intently, seeming to breathe together, and taking turns to give and take focus, that it feels like a single, joyful and playful organism.

Take 5! with Ensemble members …
A.J. Calbert, Alex Vernon, Andre Hinds, Anna Grace Nowalk, Antoinette Robinson, Bill Aitken, Calvin Malone, Caroline Wolfson, Cassie Cope, Clifton Walker III, Cole Burden, Daniel Harray, Danny Bolero, Danny Gavigan, Devinne Cook, Elan Zafir, Elena Day, Emily Zickler, Georgina Moore, Greg Watkins, Happenstance Theater, Héctor Flores, Jr, Hillary Thelin, James Finley, Jefferson A. Russell, Jennifer Cordiner, Jennifer Lyons Pagnard, Jonathan David Martin, Jose Fernando Capellan, Justine Icy Moral, Kate Eastwood Norris, Linedy Genao, Maggie Wilder, Malcolm Lee, Manny Buckley, Melissa Victor, Michael Burgos, Michael John Casey, Myriam Gadri, Nicki Elledge, Retta Laumann, Ricky Drummond, Robbie Roby, Sean-Maurice Lynch, Sharlane Conner, Susan Lynskey, Teresa Spencer, Tobias A. Young, Tyler Bowman, Vilma Gil, William T. Newman, Jr, Wyn Delano.
(No time for a long read? Find nominees and shows using the Search box)

The nominees	Take five!
	William Aitken, Ma Rainey's Black Bottom, 1st Stage What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? The whole thing. From the very first scene to the end of the show. Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. Every rehearsal was funny. Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? "Have fun!" Is there someone you want to personally thank? Id like to thank Diedre for all the hard work she put into the show and making it the success it was. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Old friends.
	Danny Bolero, In the Heights, Olney Theatre Center & Round House Theatre What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? Opening number "IN THE HEIGHTS" Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. There was the night that we lost the sound board during the show, and had to cancel, but the decision was made to do a few numbers from the show without microphones and sit down with the audience members that stayed and have a Q and A. The camaraderie amongst the cast was unbelievable. Everyone wanted to make sure that whoever stayed, got to experience IN THE HEIGHTS. That says a lot, about the cast and the show. Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? Oh there was the time when, one of the understudies went on. She did a great job but her wig that she does not normally wear, fliped off her head during the dance numbers. It was a terrible thing to have happened but it was very funny. The cast member didn't miss a beat. Is there someone you want to personally thank? Director Marcos Santana for his sharing his intimate feelings for this show with us. I was honored to have experienced this show as cast member both on Broadway and on the 1st National tour, but some of Mr. Santana's personal connection to the story and the show were shared during some of the rehearsal times, making the experience so much more. It was clear what this show means to him. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Seeing the cast again, I am an import from NYC and to see the smiling faces I spent so much time with and to come together for the acknowledgment of hopefulling getting the Helen Hays award .
	Tyler Bowman, Twelfth Night, Shakespeare Theatre Company What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? The very last scene when all the truth comes out. Tell us something funny or surprising that happened during rehearsal or during the run. When the luggage didn't all fall from the ceiling! Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? More matter for a May morning! Is there someone you want to personally thank? I'd like to thank my diction coach who helped me navigate Shakespeare's words. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Seeing all my friends from the show again.
	Manny Buckley, The Father, Studio Theatre What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? There's a scene our director, David, nicknamed "the dance of the flowers." All cast members literally shift the already varying reality of the lead character, Andre, by continually moving Andre's apartment setting, "dancing" around him, while he unwittingly watches it happen before his very eyes. Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. By show's end, most of us felt it'd be too soon before we smelled another whole roasted chicken. Waiting backstage inhaling the aroma of a roasted chicken throughout the duration of a show's run isn't nearly as fun as it seems--for long anyway! Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? A shot of Malort for anyone as brave as this Midwesterner! Is there someone you want to personally thank? My lovely friend Heather and her family sent a care package from Chicago while I was working in DC. Thank you Heather, Roger, Julia and Levi. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? It snowed here in Chicago yesterday (April 16th), and it snowed a lot for a day that should have no snow, if you ask me. Not only am I looking forward to getting the heck out of Chiberia (*We Chicagoans lovingly combine Chicago and Siberia to form "Chiberia." In case you didn't get it, it's freezing here!) for a spell. Looking forward to seeing all the DC theatre scene's artists at the awards. A popular line from Rick and Morty comes to mind. "Show me what you got." Please don't let that be snow.
	Cole Burden, Crazy for You, Signature Theatre What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? Final scene in the show where in true farce fashion the entire cast is called upon for quick ensemble comic timing. The moment just before the girl gets the boy where everything might just fall apart...then resolves to harmony. Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. Two of our cast members got engaged! Total surprise...well not to the groom. Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? What are you talking about? Musical comedy is a very serious job. Is there someone you want to personally thank? Matthew Gardiner for bringing me back to DC and to Signature Theatre. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Whatever Natascia Diaz is wearing.d
	Manny Burgos, Mnemonic, Theater Alliance What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? There are far too many moments of ensemble work to pick just one. Outside of the iconic chair-puppet moment, a couple that stick out are: 1) the quick succession of almost dream-like vignettes that happen when Alice (Teresa Spencer) is traveling throughout Europe trying to find her birth father; and 2) at the end, when the ensemble is looking through the glass of the display case that houses Ötzi and then moves into and through the display, crescendoing into a circle/cycle of movement (with grand symbolic implications) right before the final tableaux and blackout. Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. My English expert/panelist character — Alan — seemed to have a very intimate knowledge of, and great fondness for, sheep, which was particularly revealed in his line, "They are remarkably loving creatures." This came out quite funny during rehearsals, but for performances, I tried to scale back the overtones of bestiality. Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? "... go to California." *honk honk* Is there someone you want to personally thank? Dody [DiSanto], always. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Having fun with friends.
	A.J. Calbert, The Gospel at Colonus, WSC Avant Bard What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? Jubilee. This is the second full company number and the turning point in the story. It was also fun when the audience joined in, clapped, and moved with us. Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. Bob Telson, the musical composer, attended a few performances and did a talk back. It was interesting to get his perspective and learn about his intention when he created the various songs and musical moments. Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? Oedipus is going to die. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? I'm looking forward to seeing the old gang all together again and to revel and experience with my boo.
	Jose Fernando Capellan, In the Heights, GALA Hispanic Theatre What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? when one of our cast who played Nina Rosario, was unable to attend a matinee show; one of our ensemble cast having understudied that role made it magnificent. Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. when we got notified that Sasha Obama was as an audience in one of our matinee show. Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? What's the wooooooooooorld ? Is there someone you want to personally thank? Thanks to our Director: Luis Salgado for his support. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? this is my first time attending the awards; I hope to enjoy every moment but also win in our 18 categories
	Michael John Casey, Peter and the Starcatcher, Constellation Theatre Company What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? Choreography and song at end of Act I. Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. Random ad libs with the audience. Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? Yes. Is there someone you want to personally thank? Kathryn Chase Bryer What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Seeing the cast.
	Sharlana Conner, In the Heights, Olney Theatre Center & Round House Theatre What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? This one is hard. I want to say 96,000 because there's so many different elements happening at the same time but I may have to go with the opening. It's the first and only time the entire cast is together in one number and it really sets the tone and energy for the rest of the show. Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. Hmm.. where do I begin? The sound malfunctions, wardrobe and wig malfunctions, the flip that didn't happen once, the soda that Sunny actually opened and spilled out on set, the bodega cart that emptied on the stage, the understudy/swing shows.....I'm sure I'm missing some Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? "I was in Camp!" and "Repeat Pant!!" are my faves Is there someone you want to personally thank? Marcos Santana for making the show what it was. He's an absolutely amazing director and choreographer and his patience and professionalism speak volumes. Thank you for your guidance and for this amazing opportunity. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Being reunited again with my beautiful cast and experiencing these awards for the first time!!
	Devinne Cook, Still Life with Rocket, Theater Alliance What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? The very end. We had many endings before we found the right one and it’s the only time we’re all in the same space. Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. Ben pushed a table and put a hole in the wall. It was both funny and surprising. Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? The mystery of the father(s) Is there someone you want to personally thank? I would like to thank Kelly Maxner for considering me for this and believing in me. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? This is my first one so I’m very excited to be surrounded by everyone in the DC theatre scene.
	Cassie Cope, Parade, Keegan Theatre What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? The opening number, "Old Red Hills of Home". Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? Too many to name them all. "I eat my lunch", the funeral countdown and "Look Mom, a dog? Can I get one?" Is there someone you want to personally thank? My mom, hands down the most supportive person in the world. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Seeing the cast members of Parade and all the other shows nominated this year! It is truly hard to believe it has been a year since the show closed, and it will be really nice to have a little reunion.
	Jennifer Cordiner, Crazy for You, Signature Theatre What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? I Got Rhythm Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. Kurt plunging the stage floor off! Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? Naked at places! Is there someone you want to personally thank? Dennis Jones for your amazing choreography! And our awesome dressers for all the laughs in the girls’ dressing room! What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Reuniting with the cast
	Elana Day, Mnemonic, Theater Alliance What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? The moment when the ensemble moved across the stage like plate tectonics moving and shifting over time Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. We had to change a number of movement sequences when we got into tech. Creation born of necessity and limited time! Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? My inside joke to myself was "DON'T LOOK AT IT!" Is there someone you want to personally thank? I'd thank to thank Colin Hovde for the opportunity. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? All the beautiful people!
	Wyn Delano, Parade, The Keegan Theatre What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? There is a fairly long courtroom sequence that required the full commitment and investment of the whole cast to really bring it to the level it needed to be at. The ensemble's individual takes in those moments were both deeply unique and thematically unified - something that really made that mob terrifying and powerful. Tell us something funny or surprising that happened during rehearsal or during the run. I covered 5 roles in this show and so when we did our understudy rehearsal I ended up doing a lot of the scenes with myself running back and forth between lines. Castmates still remark that I "played every person in Georgia" that day. Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? Bev. Is there someone you want to personally thank? Holly for convincing me to come to DC and Christina for taking a chance on me. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Seeing everyone in this community in one place.
	Ricky Drummond, Parade, The Keegan Theatre What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? The last sequence of Act One is set in a courtroom and covers multiple songs in multiple styles. It really showcases the skills and cohesion of our ensemble, ranging from a dance-y jazz number to epic choral singing. The whole scene lasted over 20 minutes and took a lot of focus from each member in our ensemble to work. Is there someone you want to personally thank? My grandmother for being the best supporter a kid could ask for. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Seeing all of the talented artists in DC's theatre community!
	Nicki Elledge, A Little Night Music, Signature Theatre What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? A Weekend in the Country. Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. Chats with Charlotte created by the brilliant Tracy. Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? The squeaky basketball court floor waltz moment haha Is there someone you want to personally thank? Walter Ware III, Eric Schaeffer, and Jon Kalbfleisch for trusting me with the role of Anne. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? I am most excited to see everyone during this theatre reunion!
	James Finley, Parade, Keegan Theatre and The Wild Party, Constellation Theatre Company What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? Parade: The 'Let Me Drown' production number The Wild Party: The "When the Flood Comes' production number Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? Bev's baking What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Cheering on my friends at the ceremony!
	Héctor Flores Jr, In the Heights, GALA Hispanic Theatre What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? It’s hard to say because we were in so much of it. We were the life of the streets, the breeze off the fire escape, the water from the hydrant, the tension when Benny finally speaks up to Kevin... I can say the moment I am most proud of us as an ensemble is in Pacencia Y Fe, a number in which ensemble members enter representing life in Cuba circa early 1940s and run off stage to enter 15 seconds later as busy aggressive New Yorkers. The choreography was precise as were the vocals. We created two completely different worlds and time traveled in 5 mins. I feel a special tie to it because that’s my grandmother’s story. My Abuela came to the US as a little girl and told me some of the same stories Abuela Claudia sings about in the show. Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. We were very blessed in that there was a lot interest in our show and political figures came to see our Spanish Language version of this show Directed and Choreographed by Luis Salgado, Born in Puerto Rico and a member of the Original Broadway cast. One day Supreme Court Justice Sonya Sotomayor comes to see the show. There’s secretive service in the building. We were all briefed. Everything’s great. We knew what was going to happen during BLACK OUT (the act one finale) but secret service didn’t. So for those of you who don’t know the show there’s a power outage that happens directly after a very aggressive fight scene, so everyone’s already on edge. The black out happens and secret service starts running down the isles! And for a split second I thought to myself “Lawd Jesus please don’t let the act I finale be the reason I meet my maker.” Looking back it wasn’t a huge deal but in the moment we were shocked someone was moving in the aisle during the show let alone people in suits, armed and trained in hand to hand combat charging toward us... We all had a good laugh about it in the dressing room at intermission. And we got to meet Sonia after the show. She is so inspiring. #funfact Black Out is the only number in IN THE HEIGHTS that requires the entire cast. Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? DANCE BUT DONT DANCE!!!! (HUH!?!?) Is there someone you want to personally thank? The cast for their talent, their time, their love and their open hearts. I feel like we made magic together and it’s an experience I will always remember. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? The experience overall and to see my cast mates! Some of them live outside of the country and this ceremony is a perfect reason for a reunion.
	Myriam Gadri, In the Heights, GALA Hispanic Theatre What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? I would say the number 'Carnival' Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. Our opening night one of the mics malfunctioned and had a kind of explosion effect to the sound system. Which meant that it cut all the sound and of course we were in the middle of "96 000" number and we carried on acapella until the sound team where able to fix it. Thats also where you saw the cast really had each other's backs and were definitely working as a team. Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? " G Sharp!" Is there someone you want to personally thank? The director/choreographer Luis Salgado What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? I am just looking forward to being in the room with all these amazingly talented artists.
	Danny Gavigan, Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, Ford's Theatre What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? There are so many, but if I had to choose I’d say when the guests arrive at George and Martha’s. We spent a lot of time as a foursome finding those early moments of nervous subtext, feeling each other out, deftly handling the rapid witty size-up repartee, and nervous osmosis of being in each other’s presence. It set the tone for the 3-hour dance that is that show. Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. It was surprising to get super flu halfway through rehearsals. Ringing in the new year at Mr’s Posner’s home playing celebrity with everybody was pretty funny. Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? Cursing Mr. Albee’s impossible stage directions quickly became a running joke. Is there someone you want to personally thank? Serena Shapero. She helped me book the audition and this is her favorite play of all time. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Seeing all the inspiring DC artists I’ve grown to know and love the last ten years, many of whom I haven’t seen in a long time being out of town for various projects. And to meet many more.
	Linedy Genao, In the Heights, Olney Theatre Center & Round House Theatre What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? I'd say the finale! We all walk on stage feeling such a sense of pride, accomplishment and gratitude. This story unfolds so beautifully, and affects every single person on the stage. We all come together united, powerful and as one-- visualizing our dream and knowing our worth and where we belong. Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. One of the funniest things that happened was during the transition into "Blackout." One of the girls in the ensemble had to pass me a cellphone in the dark, but she wasn't able to get it because it had fallen or something. So, for the beginning part of blackout, I had no phone and had to act like I did. It took everything in me and her to not laugh. Eventually, someone just gave me their phone, thank goodness, because I needed it for the rest of the scene haha! Is there someone you want to personally thank? I'd like to personally thank our director/choreographer Marcos Santana for believing in me, trusting me and pushing me to be better each time What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Just being in attendance because I've never been to them and am honored to even be nominated!
	Vilma Gil, In the Heights, Olney Theatre Center & Round House Theatre What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? Performing "Home" together! It was a celebration full of passion, joy, and pure electricity! Marcos asked us to make sure and have a moment with each character and make a real connection because we were like family and now we are forever part of the In The Heights Family! WEPA! Tell us something funny or surprising that happened during rehearsal or during the run. When our director Marcos stepped in as Vanessa, it was on point! Pretty much anything Robin De Jesus said in English and in Spanish! Is there someone you want to personally thank? I need to thank Marcos Santana for letting us create together and the opportunity to tell such a beautiful story along with the awesome cast! What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Excited to see everyone!
	Happenstance Theater, Bon Voyage! A Happenstance Escapade What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? Perhaps the scene in the Paris Metro, where the travelers get separated. Their determination to reunite is profound, while their enduring union is constant in the musical/rhythmic underpinnings of their efforts. This is true both of the characters and of us as a company, I think. Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. Apart from hijinks with balloons and bicycles during the run... while we were building and rehearsing "Bon Voyage!," we were also performing a fully staged excerpt of "Impossible! A Happenstance Circus" on the Mall as part of the Smithsonian's Festival of American Folklife's celebration of Circus Arts. It was remarkable fun, but also really hot. We were surprised and very happy how many people saw us there first and then came to see us in "Bon Voyage!" Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? So Many: "Well, maybe not EVERYONE!"; Have we said, 'something in unison?' "What's that sound?" "Girl you got that retinal burn!" "You look Gorgeous!" Uncle Milkshake! Is there someone you want to personally thank? Madeline Key. Her understudy work at a delicate and crucial point in the process allowed us to finish and open the piece. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Celebrating a VERY BUSY year with our beloved company and the rest of the DC Theater Community.
	Daniel Harray, The Father, Studio Theatre What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? Any and all moments of active listening Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. Ruth Bader Ginsburg, her daughter Jane, and their security detail caught the show one night, and even visited us in the green room afterwards. Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? Malort with Manny Is there someone you want to personally thank? David Muse, and everyone else involved with "The Father" What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Being with so much of the extraordinary D.C. Theatre community under one roof, and Nancy Robinette's acceptance speech
	Andre Hinds, Crazy for You, Signature Theatre and In the Heights, Olney Theatre Center & Round House Theatre What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? ITH - Definitey the opening and the finale of this show. You see the ensemble as a whole grow together and settle together. The opening introduced you to not only every principle but even the people on the street dancing through had their own story to tell with Marcos Santana’s choreography. So by the time you hit the finale an you have everyone resolving an we hit that finale “HOME” you couldn’t tell us that there wasn’t any love on that stage. Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. ITH - We had to hold the show for almost an hour one night cause of things malfunctioning and we started to get restless downstairs. So, I like to play music all the time. I created a dance party down in the Green Room and Robin de Jesus may have done an entire Gabby Douglas beam and floor routine. I’m not saying there’s any footage ;) Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? ITH - “They throwing bottles in the street people lootin and shootin eyyyy, eyyyy” C4U - “Wanna try the cheesy grits” Is there someone you want to personally thank? Two people: Number one my Tobias Young Number 2 Melly Mel Victor. These 2 I love so much! What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? What’s everyone wearing?
	Retta Laumann, Parade, The Keegan Theatre What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? I think that the entire trial sequence really exemplifies the ensemble's work. The whole thing lasts about 20 minutes, and the majority of the cast is onstage the entire time. Even though we weren't all singing the whole time, the whole cast was actively living this trial and really feeding off of each other's emotions throughout the entirety of this long, incredibly emotional sequence. Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. I sprained my wrist pretty badly in the middle of a performance running across the stage. It wasn't exactly funny, but definitely surprising. Luckily it was towards the end of the run, but we had to change some blocking because I couldn't carry anything too heavy, and I had to wear a brace for months afterwards.  Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? My favorites are Willfredo, the cookie, and "I brought you a little care package-a-a little package a clothes"  Is there someone you want to personally thank? The entire cast, crew and creative team of Parade for making me feel so welcome and for teaching me so much. I'm so lucky to have made my professional debut in a production with such fantastic people. And, of course, I want to thank my family. I'm so grateful that my parents have given me the resources to pursue acting professionally and that they support me so unconditionally. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? I'm so excited to see my Parade family again and to meet all of the other nominees! It's such an honor to be nominated alongside such incredible people.
	Malcolm Lee, Parade, The Keegan Theatre What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? The courtroom scene Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. The first read through was a bit of a “surprise” for all. Let’s just say that my character was in full force that evening. Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? The Sassy Dressing Room and the Countdown of the Funerals. Is there someone you want to personally thank? The Directors Susan Marie Rhea and Christina Anne Coakley and Musical Director Jake Null for making us look and sound good on stage. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Seeing everyone again!
	Sean-Maurice Lynch, Ragtime, Ford's Theatre What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? The opening and the closing numbers of Ragtime. Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. One performance when the Model T. Ford was moving downstage, and it decided that it was going to be in the musical Chitty Chitty Bang Bang instead of Ragtime, and the front two wheels start pointing up towards the ceiling of the theatre! Talk about Wheels of a Dream! Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? "What about JUSTICE?!" & "Gliiiiiiiiiiiiidin!" Is there someone you want to personally thank? Director Peter Flynn for being such a fearless and welcoming artist. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? The new venue, meeting new artists, and seeing familiar faces again!
	Susan Lynskey, Roe, Arena Stage What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? It’s difficult to distill one particular moment of Lisa Loomer’s brilliant play. From curtain up to close, each member of the acting ensemble plunges into an interconnected world of storytelling and stagecraft. The “ensemble” was larger than it appeared at first glance, because almost every member of the cast created between 3 and 10 different characters. So, not only the cast of 12 actors, but also the entire array of 50 characters, exemplified strong scene partnering, communication, and ensemble work. Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. Here’s a funny moment: We had many quick costume changes, most of which occurred in front of the audience, so the door was always open to allow the mishaps that create life’s great comedy to walk in. To facilitate our quick changes, many of the clothes were fastened with magnets. As a result, sometimes when we were eating onstage with silverware – for instance, in the scene with the women’s consciousness-raising group – a fork would suddenly jump out of our hands and stick to our blouses. Our consciousness was certainly raised! Here’s a surprising moment: One night at Arena Stage, two men in the audience began an audible verbal exchange during Act 1, arguing with each other about the issues raised in Roe. They escalated the argument during intermission, taking it out into the lobby and almost taking it to blows. Both returned for Act 2 and, at the curtain call, both gave a standing ovation. There were some wonderful moments as well. Because Roe was a play in which the political was also personal, the discussion did not stop when the show ended. Talkbacks after the show with members of the audience yielded incredibly profound exchanges with people whose lives have been affected by the events portrayed in the play. The honesty. The compassion. And the creation of a safe space to discuss difficult situations and divergent experiences became as moving and transformative as the play itself. Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? “To cake or not to cake?”: that was always the question. In the women’s consciousness-raising scene, comedic lines were often punctuated by our inhaling huge mouthfuls of cake. We knew we had to eat full-plate-sized portions throughout the scene, but we never knew what to expect from the cake itself. Fresh? Frozen? Or even fit for human consumption? We developed a code: if the lovely and talented Gina stuck her fork into her serving and it sank right in, we knew the cake was edible and our lines of dialogue could be safely delivered. If the fork went in only halfway, we knew it meant proceed cautiously with both eating and speaking. And, if the fork bounced off the icing without even gaining entry, there would be a shared all-knowing look of dread among the six women onstage and a nearly-audible group sigh as forks were raised into the air and lowered down. Is there someone you want to personally thank? I would like to thank Lisa Loomer for her extraordinarily important and compassionate play, and Bill Rauch for championing and directing it with such insight and integrity – and for inviting me to join the extraordinary company and cast. I would also like to thank my family members and friends who supported me in the journey of Roe, onstage and off, so that I could participate in the development and performance of this incredible provocative and life-changing new work. I would like to thank the Helen Hayes judges for nominating the cast of Roe for the ensemble acting award. This award has always held a special place in my heart for its meaning and its metaphor. Finally, I would like to thank Linda Coffee for her courage, her keen intelligence, and her commitment to social justice. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? The Helen Hayes Awards ceremony is the one day each year we gather to celebrate not only individual shows and artists but the entire DC theater community. I look forward to standing together with all who dedicate their time and talents to making the DC metropolitan area such a varied, vibrant, and vital artistic home.
	Calvin Malone, The Wild Party, Constellation Theatre Company What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? Many times during the show, Allison Stockman directed our ensemble to break out of our named characters, and to truly become the id. One such moment was Act 2’s “Let Me Drown.” Watching/egging on Burrs’s (Jimmy Mavrikes) booze-induced breakdown as his inner demons to the beat of Ilona Kessel’s choreography... I think that’s was the epitome of our work. Brilliant storytelling with simultaneous fun. Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. During the second verse of “A Wild, Wild Party,” we were supposed to get into provocative positions to represent Sodom and Gomorrah. Our dance captain (Julia Klavans) and I would always pose in compromising, yet comedic kama sutra-esque tableaus. One evening performance as she was squatting over me, the tassels from her dress fell into my open mouth; I had to lay completely still for four bars while I was gagging on her fabric. Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? BACK OFF Is there someone you want to personally thank? Bobby McCoy! He got me the invitation to audition, and helped welcome me to the incredible theatre scene in this city. I wouldn’t have any of these opportunities if it weren’t for him. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Dressing up to the nines with my friends, and honoring the best and brightest in our Theatre community.
	Jonathan David Martin, Mnemonic, Theater Alliance What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? The climax of the play involved the ensemble slowly crossing over the set from one side of the stage to the other in tandem with a video and audio montage that sort of summed up the themes and narratives of the play. Movement Director, Dody DiSanto, gave us the prompt to think about crossing as if we were moving against a strong wind, there was even a moment when we all collectively were all almost blown backwards. In performing it, it was the epitome of what made being a part of this ensemble truly special: we became a character that was larger than any one of us, or any one group of people, we were able to conjure together the whole history of human civilization pushing and scraping forward through time. Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. MNEMONIC was a show stuffed full of ensemble movement and actor driven scene changes. All of the set pieces were manipulated on and off by the ensemble in front of and behind translucent curtains. When we moved from the rehearsal room to the stage at the start of tech and worked with the real set pieces for the first time, there was a collective “Oooohhh, this is how the machin Was there an inside jery of the show works.” From the start of tech to opening we reblocked almost the entire show. I’ve never worked on a show that grew and clicked as well or as fast as MNEMONIC did in that single week. It’s a testament to the incredibly strong team that director, Colin Hovde, put together for it. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Catching up with friends that I haven't seen since last year's awards!
	Georgina Moore, Crazy for You, Signature Theatre What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? I Got Rhythm! Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. The floor boards kept popping out of the stage during I Got Rhythm! Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? Jen Spike Is there someone you want to personally thank? Denis Jones and Matthew Gardiner for giving us a show that was such a joy to perform ! What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards?
	Justine Icy Moral What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? I believe that the Prologue of Ragtime as well as Til We Reach That Day best exemplifies the ensembles work. During those two moments, I experienced the most passionate energy and a deep connection with the cast. Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. Backstage before Henry Ford, Chris Bloch and I made up some pretty cool moves to perform for Rayanne Gonzales before going on stage. Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? NOODER! Is there someone you want to personally thank? I always wanna thank my family, they have always been there for me every where I go and perform! What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? I am looking forward to celebrate the DC Theatre community, super excited for many of the nominees💗
	William T. Newman, Jr., Ma Rainey's Black Bottom, 1st Stage What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? The recording session scene of Ma Rainey and the band playing "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom." Tell us something funny or surprising that happened during rehearsal or during the run. One rainy night during the performance a leak sprang in the ceiling of the theatre, which caused us to have to grab a bucket to keep the cast from slipping and falling from the water on the stage. Is there someone you want to personally thank? The amazing director Deidre Starnes and wonderful actor Michael Anthony Williams.
	William T. Newman, Jr, The Gospel at Colonus, WSC Avant Bard What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? When the entire ensemble sings and dances to "Lift Him Up." Tell us something funny or surprising that happened during rehearsal or during the run. One night during the show Preacher Oedipus was having a coughing spell after singing a song. After finishing the song he had about three minutes before he needed to say a line. He ran off stage for about two and a half minutes to get a drink of water, returning just in time to say hi Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? Calling Demone who played Preacher Oedipus "Damon." Is there someone you want to personally thank? The Artistic Director of WSC Avant Bard - Tom Prewitt What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Enjoying the fellowship of being in the company of the greater Washington Metro Area theater community.
	Kate Eastwood Norris, The Father, Studio Theatre What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? Any of the intricate scene changes where we all moved furniture, liquids, and glass items in the pitch black with the help of about two meager inches of glow tape and our indomitable will. Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. For such a sad play, we sure laughed a lot (in rehearsal, of course) Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? pep talk cough drops Is there someone you want to personally thank? The entire crew What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Hearing my husband's name, Cody Nickell, announced as a nominee for Best Supporting Actor!
	Anna Grace Nowalk, A Little Night Music, Signature Theatre What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? The entirety of "A Weekend in the Country." Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? Happy Closing!!! What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Seeing the cast, of course, but also wearing the awesome shoes that I bought for the occasion.
	Jennifer Lyons Pagnard, Parade, The Keegan Theatre What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? The trial scene Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. During a performance, I got so animated/excited during the trial that my hairpiece (who I named Priscilla) fell halfway off my head! Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? Bev and her baked goods Is there someone you want to personally thank? Directors: Susan Rhea and Christina Coakley What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Reconnecting with my fellow cast members!
	Antoinette Robinson What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? The pre-show of Twelfth Night exemplified the the intricate relationships of the characters, outside of the text. It brought these people to life in a way, in all my experience, that was unmatched. Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. I learned how to navigate a razor scooter. In heels! #youcanttellmenothing! Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? There once was a cat and his name was Scooter... Is there someone you want to personally thank? Tori Lewis for always being in my corner. Through and through. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? In addition to celebration and community, reuniting with the cast and crew!
	Robbie Roby, Crazy for You, Signature Theatre What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? I Got Rhythm. So many props! Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. Two of our cast member got engaged at the curtain call. Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? MUNSCH, Cooperwood? What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Honoring the many dance centered musicals that played DC this year.
	Jefferson A. Russell, Ragtime, Ford's Theatre What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? The opening number, certainly. All the players are out there and the audience is introduced to each. And it's a beautiful, rousing number. Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. The Model T, for its grand entrance in Act 1, got hemmed up somehow and was stuck in a suspended wheelie. I believe we stopped the show momentarily as the fantastic crew at Ford's fixed the situation, and we carried on. The audience dug it. Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? Verily. Is there someone you want to personally thank? I've always wanted to thank the intrepid activist/director/writer/producer Jennifer L. Nelson for giving me and so many others actors, especially actors of color, opportunity and experience when we may not have been granted the same from others. She is an underappreciated and longtime steward of using Art to positively and strongly influence our world. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Seeing friends.
	Teresa Spencer, Mnemonic and Still Life with Rocket, Theater Alliance What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? The final image of Mnemonic is of the members of the ensemble each adopting and rolling out of the Iceman's position on the research table, in a continuous cycle. It's an image that distills the theme of the show--human resonance across generations, through time and geography--and it was also a microcosm of our collaboration together: our choreographer Dody DiSanto's physical specificity, and the unique expressivity of each ensemble member brought into harmony. Tell us something funny or surprising that happened during rehearsal or during the run. A centerpiece of Still Life with Rocket's story is an ongoing game of Truth or Dare that the adult siblings play together. The script largely came out of the ensemble's improvisation, so we spent a lot of time in rehearsal actually playing Truth or Dare in character. Some dares we kept; some never made it into the final piece. My character Tracy chews tobacco and spits in a plastic bottle, and in one rehearsal, one of my three brothers dared me to drink my tobacco spit. I did. I was actually chewing dyed shredded coconut, but still: gross. The moment stayed in the script for a while; I drank that tobacco spit for probably a whole week of rehearsals. And then ultimately it got cut. Is there someone you want to personally thank? Colin Hovde gave me a shot in two beautiful, unique plays in a row, the kind of exploratory, form-bending pieces that I think DC needs more of and that I feel so lucky to have been a part of. I'm enormously grateful for his generosity and support as a collaborator and a friend. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Celebrating with the exacting, skillful, playful, and kind artists of Theater Alliance, who encapsulate the best of the DC theatre community.
	Hillary Thelin, Parade, The Keegan What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? I think the opening and closing numbers because they characterized our journey and lifted the veil to show what kind of people the citizens of Marietta really were. In the opening we were living in the unbridled joy and patriotism of the Confederate Memorial Day Parade, but when that theme returns in the Finale, our characters' apply the same sentiments of joy and patriotism toward the lynching of Leo Frank. The commitment of the ensemble to that sickening reality was, in my opinion, our best work. Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. So during the Tea Dance at the Governor's house, there was a section that we were all in this little clump gossiping about what just went down. It started out with us all whispering little specific phrases, but it ultimately devolved into straight up gibberish that we used to try to get each other to laugh. In such a heavy show, it was always a fun little bright spot for all of us to interact with each other so playfully. Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? The Shade Room. Is there someone you want to personally thank? I would like to thank my husband for his endless support and love. I would like to thank my grandparents for providing a place for me and my little family to live in the DMV. I would like to thank Ricky Drummond for helping me find out about Keegan when I was new to the area. And I would like to thank Christina, Susan, Rachel, and Jake for believing in the abilities of a young mom in her first professional musical. Parade was one of the most incredible experiences for me as a theatre artist, and I am eternally grateful. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? I am most looking forward to a night out in a beautiful gown, surrounded by friends and family, celebrating the incredible joy of theatre and its creators.
	Alex Vernon, Bon Voyage! A Happenstance Escapade, Happenstance Theater What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? Singing La Marseillaise at the Exposition! Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? Betcha can't figure that one out! What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Tiny foods.
	Clifton Walker III, Blues in the Night, Creative Cauldron What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? The closing number “I gotta right to sing the blues”. We had so much fun with this number such great give and take between all of us on stage. Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. Well during one performance we had a lady in the front row who had one too many drinks and decided she was the 5th cast member. So we just went ahead and let her join in for awhile. Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? All I will say is that myself the only man in the show had one performance where I wore pantyhose.....and it felt wonderful. Is there someone you want to personally thank? All associated with this wonderful production! We all worked so well together. All parts worked so well from onstage to backstage. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Celebrating this wonderful community of theatre professionals and i’m proud to say I’m a part of this community.
	Greg Watkins, The Gospel at Colonus, WSC Avant Bard What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? There are so many wonderfully collaborative moments we shared in the show as an ensemble. The challenge is that in most cases we were missing one or two cast members due to story sensibility and performance direction. I would dare to say one of the moments that best exemplifies the ensemble's work was the blending of "Evil Kindness" and "You Take Him Away". Such a heightened section of the show where the audience literally witnessed many of us morph from one character to the next, unannounced and unassuming. I believe our beauty, strength, skill set and cohesiveness was also found in the complexity of singing both of these numbers, a'capella, with nothing but a double octave "A" using a sustained string patch to support us. This was all we had. No direction from a conductor. We just had to listen, trust and remain in the story. Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. Among the ensemble, there were two favorite and comedic moments that consistently happened during each performance largely due to the actor's delivery. One of the moments was when Pastor Theseus really channels the antics of a black Baptist preacher and says "......the sultry shoulders of the mountain bull". Another moment was when Polyneices mischievously exclaims, "I'll waste no time or trouble WHIPPING HIM". Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? YES!!! lol Punchinelli (fun warm-up exercise) Is there someone you want to personally thank? Yes, of course!!! TOM PREWITT & JENNIFER T. NELSON for casting me, trusting me, and allowing me space to find my voice in Polyneices. What a complex character he is! But to have had such tremendous support and confidence from Tom and Jennifer was incredibly gratifying. It is because of them that I received my first real opportunity to perform classical literature on stage as a professional actor. I am forever indebted to them both. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? This will be my very first time experiencing the Helen Hayes Awards! For years since high school, I've heard of the incredible strength of this prestigious award and I've had numerous peers who've attended and received nominations. But never have I ever experienced it for myself! I am super thrilled that I now have the opportunity to attend, and the amazing bonus is that I'VE BEEN NOMINATED!!!!!! My inaugural Helen Hayes Award nomination. WOW!!!
	Maggie Wilder, Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, Ford's Theatre What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? There were these sustained moments of tension - dialogue would float in and out of the tension with jokes and jabs and then the moment would crack. The plates would shift under all of us. And there - right there, those were the moments where I was thanking my lucky stars to be able to look into the eyes of Holly, Gregory, and Danny. Those 6 eyes are somethin' else I tell ya. Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? Page 63. Paaage 63. Is there someone you want to personally thank? Doug helped me prepare the heck outta the audition. Thank you, Doug :) Endless love to Aaron, Jenna, Holly, Gregory, Danny, Brandon, Julia, Micaela, Sam, Suz, Sam, Bones, Mark, Paul, Patrick, Kristin and all of our fab designers. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Enjoying and hugging lots of wonderful people. So....HUGS!!
	Caroline Wolfson, Parade, Keegan Theatre What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? The opening number — it’s very powerful and sweeping and we all worked hard to bring the audience into this time and place. Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. I fell off a curb and sprained my ankle 6 days before we opened. And I actually did the run with a boot on my foot the whole time. Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? Bev. Is there someone you want to personally thank? John Loughney — the Roy to my Bev. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Getting to see everyone who worked so hard this past year.
	Tobias A. Young, In the Heights, Olney Theatre Center & Round House Theatre and Ragtime, Ford's Theatre What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? Both productions have moments of great sadness in which my fellow actors in the ensemble always showed large amounts of vulnerability and true heart which made the experience authentic and raw every night we hit the stage! Tell us something funny or surprising that happened during rehearsal or during the run. In rehearsals for In The Heights Robin De Jesus was given a prop cat to have in his bodega and he would make it a point to pet said cat and cradle it in his arms as if this cat was real! Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? “They throwing bottles in the street people lootin and shootin ayyyeeeee” Is there someone you want to personally thank? My director Peter Flynn for Ragtime without a doubt has forever changed my life not only as an actor, but as a person! He will forever hold a spot in my heart and I’m eternally grateful to him! What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Being reunited with all of my cast mates is always a party, so my mind and liver are READY!
	Elan Zafir, Ragtime, Ford's Theatre What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? Stair-moving Tell us something funny or surprising that happened. The Model T Ford almost injured several actors. Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? Jame’s Konicek’s mustache. Is there someone you want to personally thank? James Konicek’s mustache. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Eating pizza at home.
	Emily Zickler, The Wild Party, Constellation Theatre Company What moment in the play do you think best exemplifies the ensemble's work? The Fight - the whole ensemble had to be completely in tune physically, vocally, and mentally to create the controlled chaos. Was there an inside joke among the ensemble you could share? Who put that carrot on the bar?? Is there someone you want to personally thank? Our fabulous Stage Manager, Rachel Hamilton. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Helen Hayes Awards? Having one last wild, wild party with this cast and creative team!