Melody Betts
Amidst Broadway’s March Madness, Melody Betts joins us ahead of The WIZ‘s first preview at the Marquis Theatre. A Chicago based actress, her list of credits is longer than most, spanning everything from Once on This Island to Ragtime and The Drowsy Chaperone. Those not so familiar with the Chicago scene will likely recognize her from both Broadway and the first national tour of Waitress. Taking on the double role of Aunt Em and Evillene feels full circle to Betts, having previously mentioned that the first record she ever owned was The WIZ. Audiences around the country, who have been lucky enough to watch The WIZ on its pre-Broadway journey, have been huge fans of her performance, and we’re very excited to welcome her back to the city.
Read the full interview, where Melody chats to us about her most embarrassing moment (you don’t want to skip this one) and her #framegame.
What do you consider to be your best asset?
I think I have the ability to make people feel seen and heard, which is most necessary in the world. I know from experience what it’s like not to be considered so I try my best to consider others.
What was your proudest moment?
My proudest moment would probably be the birth of my child. Actually everything and anything regarding my child are my proudest moments on this earth.
What is your favorite drink?
Anything with ginger…Ginger ale, ginger beer, pineapple ginger juice…ginger everything. I am also partial to a good full bodied red with good legs and fruity notes.
What is your favorite food?
Soul food…from all cultures.
What is your favorite condiment?
Tapatío hot sauce.
What is your current obsession?
My current obsession is Wiz fan pages. I like to join them and then read all of the posts and comments which have been quite interesting. It’s crazy how enjoyable it has been for me. These fan pages are filled with Wiz purists that have been following the show since it’s inception in the mid 70s. Some members of these pages have even been involved in productions of The Wiz, including the original Broadway cast. I read their comments and opinions about our show too. Some of the comments are really insightful and some are a little bit ridiculous but it all tickles me. I often wonder if they’d kick me out if they knew I was quietly lurking around.
If you could give up one of your vices, what would it be?
No thank you.
What is the one professional accomplishment you long for most?
I have always wanted to be a part of an original Broadway cast for a brand new work that I believe in and on the original Broadway Cast album.
What is the one thing you waste too much money on?
Glasses. I’m very serious about my frames. #framegame
What is the one activity you waste too much time doing?
Watching TV. I justify it by calling it research.
What do you consider to be the single greatest threat to your health?
America.
What’s the single best trait you inherited or learned from your parents?
To be a God-reverencing human being.
What’s the single worst trait you inherited or learned from your parents?
Shopping… unnecessarily. Retail therapy.
What in the world most thrills you?
Love and the process of people’s dreams being realized.
What current trend in popular culture most irritates you?
Trolling and saying hurtful, hateful, negative things from behind a screen.
What was the most embarrassing moment you’ve ever experienced on the job?
I peed myself onstage and left a puddle. I was singing so hard once during the Fools Fall in Love reprise during a production of Smokey Joe’s Café that I peed a small puddle down center underneath my floor length gown. I had to go backstage and warn the dancers for the next number so they wouldn’t step in it. What I didn’t know at the time was that I was suffering from having very large fibroids at and they contributed to many issues including peeing while singing hard. I’ve since had them removed.
What is your favorite place in the world?
Usually somewhere in nature, next to water with my family enjoying the peace and quiet.
What is the most important trait you seek in a romantic partner?
Thorough, gentle and respectful communication.
Do you prefer the company of dogs or cats?
Dogs. I have a ShihTzu Maltese that would be very upset if I said cats. It doesn’t take much for her to give a good side eye.
What would have to happen to make today the best day of your life?
First, war and the killing of innocent people would be extinct. I think that’s a good place to start.
What is your personal motto?
Celebrate in seasons. One day is never enough.
And also, kindness and consideration go a long way! One random act of kindness a day keeps the extinction of humanity at bay.
