David Lai
David Lai is busier than ever with the resurgence of Andrew Lloyd Webber on Broadway. Lai currently serves as conductor for the Broadway company of The Phantom of the Opera and is the music supervisor for CATS and Sunset Boulevard, which features a 40-piece on stage orchestra – the largest to play on Broadway in over 80 years. Other Broadway credits as conductor, music coordinator and/or keyboardist include South Pacific, Mary Poppins, Miss
Saigon, The Woman in White, Jesus Christ Superstar, Les Misérables and Aspects of Love. We’re excited to get David Lai out of the orchestra pit and On the Couch.
What do you consider to be your best asset?
My ears (blessed and cursed with perfect pitch).
What was your proudest moment?
Conducting Phantom for the first time with my parents in the audience.
What is your favorite drink?
Strawberry Venti.
What is your favorite food?
Sushi.
What is your favorite condiment?
Mayonnaise.
What is your current obsession?
SNL opening monologues.
If you could give up one of your vices, what would it be?
Ice cream.
What is the one professional accomplishment you long for most?
Getting to the point I can feel I can turn town a job for free time with family.
What is the one thing you waste too much money on?
Nothing…I’m cheap.
What is the one activity you waste too much time doing?
Watching the NY Knicks.
What do you consider to be the single greatest threat to your health?
Lack of exercise.
What is the single best trait you inherited or learned from your parents?
Work ethic.
What is the single worst trait you inherited or learned from your parents?
Cheap.
What in the world most thrills you?
Amazing musicianship.
What current trend in popular culture most irritates you?
Alternative facts.
What was the single most embarrassing moment you’ve ever experienced on the job?
Tux shirt splits open during the show revealing a Z pack.
What is your favorite place in the world?
Kauai.
What is the most important trait you seek in a romantic partner?
Love of the arts and dogs.
Do you prefer the company of dogs or cats?
Dogs.
What would have to happen to make today the best day of your life?
I’m lucky…every day is a good day. I don’t need anything more.
What is your personal motto?
Making others around me happy makes me happiest.