Paul Alexander Nolan
It takes a certain kind of actor to perform the sweeping music of Edie Brickell and Steve Martin, and actor Paul Alexander Nolan does it with aplomb. This season, he plays Jimmy Ray Dobbs in Brickell and Martin's new hit Bright Star, which opens March 24th at the Cort Theater. No stranger to the Broadway stage, Paul has originated roles in Doctor Zhivago and Once. He also played Jesus in Andrew Lloyd Webber's classic Jesus Christ Superstar – and if playing Jesus isn't a testament to Paul's personality, I don't know what is! We are thrilled to have him On the Couch this week.
What do you consider to be your best asset?
Work ethic.
What was your proudest moment?
Being there for my wife and family when they needed me.
What is your favorite drink?
Coffee or sakes.
What is your favorite food?
Spaghetti and meatballs or an amazing sushi restaurant called Sakagura.
What is your favorite condiment?
Mayonnaise.
What is your current obsession?
Fragrance. I knew nothing about it when my friend Victor stayed with me and heard me call my parfum “cologne” and it began a 2 hour epic lecture on the subject and passion of fragrance. Now I'm sniffing everything, including a parfum that smelled exactly like horse crap. Seriously…EXACTLY.
If you could give up one of your vices, what would it be?
Worry.
What is the one professional accomplishment you long for most?
To feel like I know what I'm doing!
What is the one thing you waste too much money on?
Food. But I don't think it's a waste 
What is the one activity you waste too much time doing?
Going down the YouTube wormhole.
What do you consider to be the single greatest threat to your health?
Worry.
What is the single best trait you inherited or learned from your parents?
To treat people well and value my family.
What is the single worst trait you inherited or learned from your parents?
My parents are faultless 
Hi Mom and Dad!
What in the world most thrills you?
Conquering fear and making my wife laugh.
What current trend in popular culture most irritates you?
Vacuousness.
What was the single most embarrassing moment you've ever experienced on the job?
Second audition for Bright Star I forgot a song I've played and sung on guitar over 500 times. Ugh! And then I'm thinking “why did I choose to play a musical instrument in front of a banjo master (Steve Martin)?”
What is your favorite place in the world?
The Rocky Mountains.
What is the most important trait you seek in a romantic partner?
Humor and kindness and respect for their health.
Do you prefer the company of dogs or cats?
Dogs.
What would have to happen to make today the best day of your life?
That's a secret.
What is your personal motto?
Know yourself.