On Monday, April 14th, Broadway actors JJ Niemann and Emma Pittman spoke at the “Renaissance GALA” that took place at the West Bank Café’s Laurie Beechman Theatre in New York.
JJ Niemann is known for his acting work in such Broadway shows as “Back to the Future” and “Hamilton,” and Emma Pittman is known for her performances in “The Outsiders” and “Back to the Future.”
West Bank Café and the Laurie Beechman Theatre are now owned by Tony-nominated producers Tom and Michael D’Angora.
Niemann on the ‘Renaissance GALA’
On being a part of the “Renaissance GALA,” Niemann said, “It feels awesome. It is such a great group and an amazing lineup with so much talent with New York icons, so it feels awesome to be here.”
Niemann continued, “To be perfectly honest, it is a historical theater. I am newer to the New York theatre scene, so I haven’t gotten a chance to experience the magic of this theater so much. It is so exciting that it is officially opening, and I am excited to see it thrive.”
Pittman on the Laurie Beechman Theatre
“It feels historic, iconic, exciting, and exhilarating to be here,” Pittman said. “The Laurie Beechman Theatre is very special to me because a dear friend of mine, Brendan McCann, was a huge part of its renovation.”
Pittman continued, “Brendan is the person who created my dress tonight and he painted the stage before this evening’s performance. I know that his heart and soul went into this to help preserve the history of the Laurie Beechman Theatre. I am excited for him.”
Niemann on the ‘Back to the Future’ musical
Niemann recalled his time in the hit Broadway musical “Back to the Future.” “It was awesome. I miss it every day,” he admitted. “I literally think about the show every single day. It was such a very special group of people and cast.”
“I hope for more and more shows, casts, and groups and community like that,” he added.
Niemann on working with Casey Likes
On working with Casey Likes, Niemann said, “Casey is great! He is a sweetheart and he is in his hometown right now in Arizona doing his ‘Spring Awakening’ show.”
“So, I am very excited for him, and I love that he is bringing theatre and all these New York actors to his community; it’s super cool,” Niemann added.
Niemann on working with Jelani Remy
Niemann also praised his “Back to the Future” co-star Jelani Remy. “Jelani Remy is the best,” Niemann exclaimed. “Jelani is here tonight, and he is just a class act. He was such an incredible leader in our building and in our show in so many ways.”
Pittman on Sky Lakota-Lynch understudying her character
When asked if her co-star, Tony nominee Sky Lakota-Lynch, would ever understudy her “Outsiders” character Cherry Valance, Pittman responded, “Sky already played Cherry, thank you very much.”
“We did a Cabaret performance for Broadway Cares, where Sky played Cherry Valance, so it has happened. It is finally come to fruition. We did hair and makeup, and it was absolutely amazing,” Pittman explained.
Pittman’s message for her fans
For her fans and supporters, Pittman expressed, “I love you, guys. You are everything to me. Thanks for being here and thanks for supporting me!”
For more information on JJ Niemann, follow him on Instagram.
To learn more about Emma Pittman, follow her on Instagram.
