Every day is opening night.

Jason Howland

 

Walk into the Stephen Sondheim Theater and you are thrust into the 1960’s, where rock n’ roll rings through 1650 Broadway and Carole King, Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann create the songs that now define the American music landscape. This experience is partly thanks to the unmatched talent of Jason Howland, music director of the hit Broadway show Beautiful – The Carole King Musical. Jason has worked on various Broadway shows including Les Miserables, Taboo and The Scarlet Pimpernel. Beyond music direction, he was the composer on Little Women and is currently writing the score for two new musicals. We are thrilled to have this multi-talented music man On the Couch!

 

What do you consider to be your best asset?

Staying calm under pressure.
 

What was your proudest moment?

When my daughter Nina was born.

 

What is your favorite drink?
Coffee and red wine. But not at the same time.
 

What is your favorite food?
Anything and everything Italian.
 

What is your favorite condiment?
Olive oil.
 

What is your current obsession?
HBO.
 

If you could give up one of your vices, what would it be?
Bourbon.

 

What is the one professional accomplishment you long for most?
To compose the film score for Star Wars 8.

 

What is the one thing you waste too much money on?
Uber!
 

What is the one activity you waste too much time doing?
Words with friends.
 

What do you consider to be the single greatest threat to your health?
Not going to the doctor in the last decade for a checkup.
 

What is the single best trait you inherited or learned from your parents? 
Being curious.
 

What is the single worst trait you inherited or learned from your parents?
Not going to the doctor smile
 

What in the world most thrills you?
Great theater, great music, art that surprises me and catches me off guard.
 

What current trend in popular culture most irritates you?
Our horrific fascination with the repugnant Donald Trump.
 

What was the single most embarrassing moment you've ever experienced on the job?
 I have too many to count, but completely forgetting how to play “You've Got A Friend” in the middle of the song during a performance of Beautiful. 7 seconds of sheer terror.
 

What is your favorite place in the world?
Cape Cod.
 

What is the most important trait you seek in a romantic partner?
Generosity.
 

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 would feel at peace. Hasn't happened yet 🙁
 

What is your personal motto?
I'm still trying to figure that one out….