BroadwayBox launches its new Singular Sensation series, spotlighting New York's most mesmerizing ensemble members, with Chicago
standout Donna Marie Asbury. Donna Marie first debuted in the national tour of the Tony-winning revival in December of 1997, then came into the Broadway company in March of 1999 where she plays June ("you've been screwing the milkman") and understudies Velma.
Read on as we talk to Donna Marie about Chicago, Gypsy, and her killer parm.
1. The moment in Chicago I look forward to every night:
It has to be “Cell Block Tango!” I think it’s one of, if not the BEST number in the show. Plus, I really LOVE my monologue.
2. Broadway show that changed my life the first time I saw it:
I’m going to choose two. Irene starring Debbie Reynolds because it was the very first show I ever saw (I know I’m aging myself)! THAT’S when I knew I wanted to do this. Second was Evita. I was completely blown away by the original production and I listened to the cast recording pretty much nonstop. I’m so grateful I actually got to play “Eva” (thank you Hal Prince)!
3. Job that got me my equity card:
I got my equity card at age eleven. It was the Broadway revival of Gypsy starring Angela Lansbury—one of the best experiences of my life. I know how blessed and lucky I was!
4. Special skill on my resume I'm most proud of:
Sadly, I have no special skills on my resume, BUT, I make a killer eggplant parmesan!
5. Performer who inspires me professionally:
I would have to say Angela Lansbury. She, in a way, was one of my very first teachers. Watching her every night was kind of amazing, and she’s had one hell of a career. I have said it before, because Gypsy was such an incredible start for me, there was NO WAY I was going to do anything else! Special shout out to Lin-Manuel Miranda. He’s a genius!
6. Role from high school or college that was my favorite:
In my senior year of high school, I got to play “Rosie” in Bye Bye Birdie. It was so much fun!
See the incredible Donna Marie Asbury in Chicago at Broadway's Ambassador Theatre.
