Every day is opening night.

Diana DeGarmo

This week we put Diana DeGarmo on the couch.  Since gaining instant international stardom as the runner-up in the third season of “American Idol,” Diana DeGarmo has secured her place as one of New York's brightest stage talents in such acclaimed musicals as Hairspray and The Toxic Avenger.  She's currently wowing fans as Sheila in the Tony Award-winning revival of Hair, opposite fellow “Idol” alum Ace Young.    

Catch Diana in Hair at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre (302 West 45th Street).  Check out www.HairBroadway.com for additional information or to purchase tickets.


Q: What do you consider to be your best asset?
A: My best asset would probably be my tush. I get lots of compliments on it for some reason, but I don't understand all of the fuss. Also, I like my singing voice, too!

Q: What was your proudest moment?
A: My proudest moment was singing overseas for our troops with the USO. I really felt like I was doing a civic duty for the men and women who protect our country. It was amazing. They are the best audience EVER!

Q: What is your favorite drink?
A: Coca-cola!!!

Q: What is your favorite food?
A: Cheese.  Any kind of cheese.

Q: What is your favorite condiment?
A: I do love me some good ol' salt, but it doesn't really like me back so I try my best to stay clear of it when I can.

Q: What is your current obsession?
A: Jeggings. Yes, I have fallen in love with jeggings. It's usually so hard for me to find good fitting skinny jeans because of my bodacious tush and jeggings (jean leggings) totally solved my problem! I probably wear them a little too often.

Q: If you could give up one of your vices, what would it be?
A: I wish I could totally give up cheese, but I just can't. I love it so much, especially melted over popcorn. YUM!!

Q: What is the one professional accomplishment you long for most?
A: I would love to have a nomination from my peers. I don't care if it's for a Tony, Grammy, Emmy, Oscar, Dove, Espy, ha, or whatever! Just to be nominated would be such an honor.

Q: What is the one thing you waste too much money on?
A: Clothes… Yeah, I'm a girl and I love to shop, but at least I am a fierce bargain hunter! Chinatown, Target, Wal-Mart, side of the street, anywhere like that!

Q: What is the one activity you waste too much time doing?
A: I talk to my dogs a lot thinking that maybe ONE day they might answer me.  They are my babies. I know it's a waste of time, but I still try.

Q: What do you consider to be the single greatest threat to your health?
A: Flying. There are so many germs that float around us when we fly and I always somehow get seated next to one person who probably has “the plague.”

Q: What is the single best trait you inherited or learned from your parents?
A: Treat others the way you want to be treated and all will turn out okay; even if they don't treat you the same way back.

Q: What is the single worst trait you inherited or learned from your parents?
A: My love for cheese and the crazy, amazing concoction it makes when you add it to popcorn. Thanks, Mom!

Q: What in the world most thrills you?
A: Singing in front of loving crowd. I get chills every time. I can't describe it.

Q: What current trend in popular culture most irritates you?
A: A few “singers” who I will not name…

Q: What was the single most embarrassing moment you’ve ever experienced on the job?
A: One time during The Toxic Avenger my brain went into what I call “the white room.” All of a sudden I went blank mid song and my tongue decided it didn't want to work either. So, instead of saying, “My big french boyfriend” I said,”muh bleh bluh mema.” Literally.

Q: What is your favorite place in the world?
A: I haven't really found my FAVORITE place yet, but I do really love my bed at night. No matter where it is. Oh, and I do really love the beautiful white beaches along the Gulf of Mexico in Florida. They look like a postcard!

Q: What is the most important trait you seek in a romantic partner?
A: A good sense of humor because I'm a goof ball and you better be able to keep up!

Q: Do you prefer the company of dogs or cats?
A: I like cats, but I am allergic, so I really love my little weenie dogs, Dixie and Rosie.

Q: What would have to happen to make today the best day of your life?
A: Get a nomination from my peers! I keep putting that out into the universe, can you tell?

Q: What is your personal motto?
A: I have a few. 1) All things happen for a reason 2) God puts us where we need to be whether we realize it at the time or not 3) Life is hard enough as it is and being mean just takes way too much energy so why don't you just take the easy route and be a happy camper?