Anaïs Mitchell
Many moons ago on a farm outside of Middlebury, Vermont, Anaïs Mitchell fell in love with music. A bohemian spirit from the start, she created a space for herself in the folk-music world. When the idea of Hadestown, the new Broadway musical following the love stories between Orpheus and Eurydice, as well as Hades and Persephone, suddenly came to her, Anaïs never dreamed it would make its way to the Great White Way. All we have to say is: Welcome to Broadway, Anaïs!
What do you consider to be your best asset?
My perseverance.
What was your proudest moment?
The epic home-birth of my daughter.
What is your favorite drink?
The FIRST black americano of the day.
What is your favorite food?
Last summer I existed on caprese salad.
What is your favorite condiment?
Sauerkraut, kimchi…
What is your current obsession?
The new Kacey Musgraves album.
If you could give up one of your vices, what would it be?
The phone, the phone, the phone.
What is the one professional accomplishment you long for most?
To write songs for a gorgeous, moving film or TV show. I fantasize about Pixar…
What is the one thing you waste too much money on?
Taxicabs.
What is the one activity you waste too much time doing?
The phone again. Sad but true.
What do you consider to be the single greatest threat to your health?
Workaholism!
What is the single best trait you inherited or learned from your parents?
Delight in the world, people and art.
What is the single worst trait you inherited or learned from your parents?
Workaholism again.
What in the world most thrills you?
The feeling of being inspired, which is the same as being in love.
What current trend in popular culture most irritates you?
The amplification of our own egos on social media.
What was the single most embarrassing moment you’ve ever experienced on the job?
The one audition I ever did. It took me days to recover.
What is your favorite place in the world?
My parents’ farm in Vermont.
What is the most important trait you seek in a romantic partner?
I got married young to the love of my life and he has both gentleness and strength in spades.
Do you prefer the company of dogs or cats?
TOTAL cat person! Meow.
What would have to happen to make today the best day of your life?
I write a beautiful song spontaneously, a picnic at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden with my family, some kind of folk music jam in the eve.
What is your personal motto?
“Move with what moves you.”
Photo credit: Shervin Lainez