TeaTime: What’s it like starring in a musical that has become the longest running show in Broadway history?
ALI: Phantom is synonymous with Broadway, so it’s like a dream come true for me. I can still remember the exact seat I sat in to see Phantom when I was young, so in some ways it’s very surreal.
TeaTime: What’s the camaraderie like between cast members?
ALI: We share an incredible friendship. There’s a unique combination of cast members who have been with the show for a long time along with newer actors, and we all get along very nicely.
TeaTime: Describe some of the challenges you face being part of such an intricate, lavish production.
ALI: Of course, there are the vocal challenges that come with singing so many songs five or six days a week. I have to make sure that I take care of my voice. Also, the beautiful costumes are very heavy, and there are several costume changes, so that can get a little tricky on occasion. The timing backstage needs to be perfect.
TeaTime: What’s most rewarding about being part of Phantom?
ALI: To see so many young people in the audience is very rewarding because you realize that for some of these youngsters, this experience can open up a whole new world for them. Some may see the Phantom as an outsider of sorts, and perhaps they can relate to that in a positive way. Also, I love getting to meet some of the fans. People will wait at the side door of the theater after the show to tell me about how much the experience meant to them. That is very rewarding.
TeaTime: Are you involved with any other theater projects?
ALI: I’m currently working on a lab of the musical The Secret Garden, which actually includes a line about tea and scones, and I volunteer for BroadwayCon, a yearly event that introduces young people to the theater.
For more information about seeing Ali Ewoldt in The Phantom of the Opera at New York City’s Majestic Theatre (245 West 44th Street), go to thephantomoftheopera.com. To book a table for afternoon tea at the Russian Tea Room (150 West 57th Street), go to russiantearoomnyc.com or call 212-581-7100.
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