Hello Happy Readers!
Boy January 2012 is almost over. I can’t believe how fast this month has gone! It seems like yesterday we were ringing in the new year. Soon it will be February and Mary Stuart will open. By the way if you have not bought tickets yet for Mary Stuart you should! 
It is going to be a fantastic show! You should buy the tickets because I am in the show! (shameless plug?). Also if you have not yet bought tickets for Nunset Boulevard you need to, the show is closing this Sunday! Anyway onto what you all can here to read…We now meet Andrew Danner…
What is your name? What department are you interning in?
Andrew Danner, Acting/Administration
Are you from the area? If not, where?
My hometown is Rochester Hills.
Tell us a little bit about yourself. (You don’t have to write a novel)
I am a native Detroiter and grew up attending MBT performances. I showed an early interest in acting, often reenacting Robin Williams’ scenes from Aladdin, so my parents encouraged me to get involved in local theatre. In high school, I performed in theatre, but also was heavily involved in Spanish and social sciences. Following that path, I initially enrolled at University of Michigan for pre-law. However, I decided to follow my passions for performing to Point Park Conservatory in Pittsburgh. While in Pittsburgh, I wet my feet in both theatre and film, as well as working with the opera and symphony. I later transferred and graduated this spring from the BFA Musical Theatre program at Western Michigan University. While at WMU, I gained experience in variety of musicals and even created a solo cabaret under the direction of the MT chair, Jay Berkow. My recent pre-MBT credits include: “Drowsy Chaperone,” “The Music Man,” “My One and Only,” “Jekyll & Hyde,” and New World Stages in NYC.
Where is your favorite place to eat in Michigan? What about it is your favorite?
Zingerman’s Deli in Ann Arbor’s Kerrytown district. Their ingredients are some of the freshest in the state and the experience is not to be missed. There’s something so exciting about waiting in the line that wraps around the building and ordering a freshly made sandwich. They also offer a market, which has an incredibly wide selection.
What are some of your favorite things to do? When not being an intern.
In my free time I enjoy working out, a good college football game (Go Blue!), checking out museums, and boating. I also enjoy indie films, I recently went down to the Main Art in Royal Oak to see Lars von Trier’s Melancholia.
How did you find out about this internship? What did you do to apply for the job?
I was visiting my friend Renee in Astoria over the summer of 2010 and she told me she was going to Michigan to work for Meadow Brook Theatre. I touched base with her over the course of the year and decided to apply. I sent in a pretty standard submission, headshot, resume, cover letter and was thrilled to hear back.
What was the interview like?
I auditioned with a song and monologue, as well as completing an interview. It was great experience, because it allowed me to see what MBT was about and witness the great rapport between the artistic staff.
What has been your favorite part about his season so far?
Although, it feels like it has just begun, but I have definitely learned a lot about working in regional theatre. “A Christmas Carol” was extra special for me, as it was surreal to be performing in a show that had inspired me as a kid. I also really enjoy watching the veteran actors perform and seeing their process evolve.
What has been the coolest thing you have done since you started your internship?
I would say the coolest thing that I have done is diversify my skills and with each new show, a new adventure. I’ve also enjoyed seeing the wide range of patrons and their experiences at the theatre. It makes the work extra fulfilling.
What are some things that you have learned so far? What else would you like to learn?
The many facets of working in regional theatre. I look forward to the many new lessons the remainder of the season brings.
What is your favorite part about being an intern?
I get to see the whole process. As an actor, I rarely get that, and it has expanded my worldview.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? What do you want to do when your internship is over?
“I never think of the future – it comes soon enough.” – Albert Einstein. I like to take each day as it comes and taking progressive steps toward my goals.
Thanks Andrew! So there you have it. I am going to have to try Zingerman’s Deli! Well stay tuned…
Casey S. Hibbert© – Guest Blogger
