New Jersey Stage 2017: Issue 9 | Page 17

Hayworth, Jane Mansfield, Bettie Page. None of them were photoshopped beyond recognition. That era was all about the gorgeous shape of a natural figure. I’m not afraid of my curves, that’s for sure. I don’t think we should be hiding what makes us feel beautiful. My thrift store wiggle dresses and 5 inch heels are an outward expression of how I feel inside: glamorous and body positive. It’s so cool to me the kids that are growing up in this genera- tion are seeing actors and mu- sicians of every shape, size, ethnicity, gender and sexual ori- entation. Real people they iden- tify with and connect with. It’s amazing how much the world has changed in 20 years and we have to keep progressing. We should all feel good about ex- pressing ourselves and being exactly who we are. NJ STAGE 2017 - Vol. 4 No. 9 Throughout the last decade, you’ve performed with your uncle (Beannacht) and with Michael Brett (May Darlings) as well as solo. Do you prefer per- forming solo or with someone else on stage with you? I have to admit that I don’t like to perform on my own very much. I prefer to have someone backing me. Singing in mainly acoustic acts means that the vo- cals have to be on point and the sparse instrumentation has to be fitting and interesting. Michael is a great guitar player. He has a distinct style. I loved writing and singing with my uncle, Thomas Johnston when we played out as Beannacht. He’s another great writer. I enjoy having at least one other person on stage with me to communicate with and joke around. It adds more to the whole show. Michael and I are in sync with each other and enjoy playing together. INDEX NEXT ARTICLE 17