What can we say about Kristin Chenoweth? Petite in stature but huge in talent, she’s an actress, singer, comedian, recording artist, author and jewelry designer.
And virtually everything she touches turns to gold.
In 1999, Chenoweth got her big Broadway break for her Tony Award-winning performance in “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown.” She was nominated for another Tony in 2004 for her role as Glinda the Good Witch in “Wicked.” Eight years ago, Chenoweth won an Emmy Award for supporting actress in ABC’s “Pushing Daisies.”
Chenoweth also earned her Baltimore stripes with a highly-acclaimed portrayal of Velma Von Tussle in NBC’s “Hairspray Live!” last year. On June 8, Chenoweth will headline Beth Tfiloh Dahan Community School’s annual fundraiser benefiting the school’s scholarship fund.
In a recent email interview, Jmore asked Chenoweth, 48, about her childhood, family, career and spiritual life.
How did your childhood prepare you for a career in musical theater?
My parents were always open about whatever us kids wanted to do, and I gravitated toward the arts. I asked for ballet lessons and piano lessons. That was a big sacrifice for our family, but we did it. I learned a lot in those young years. … [Her parents] were very determined that I go to college. I auditioned for a scholarship for [at Oklahoma State University] and I got one. I think education combined with [early training] helped shape the artist I am today.
How has your spirituality guided you?
I don’t really view myself as a religious person. Spiritual, yes. I’m just a Christian girl that loves to love. You can call it whatever you want but for me, God is love. So that’s what guides me in this life.
You have had success in every entertainment genre. Do you prefer one?
I’m always going to be happier in front of a live audience, no matter what.
Baltimore is the home of “Hairspray.” What was it like playing Velma?
I really wanted to play Velma and make her likable or at least understandable. I think I was able to achieve that by leading with the fact that she just wanted her daughter to be the best and sort of lives vicariously through her daughter. I think a lot of parents can understand that. [Also] a lot of women [feel like they] have to continue to keep trying to keep looking our best. I certainly think Velma falls into the category of, “She’s going to go down looking as fabulous as she can,” and I guess that goes for Kristin Chenoweth, too.
Talk about your new series, “Perfect Citizen.”
In May, we will find out if CBS picks it up. It stars Noah Wyle. [The show] was inspired by the Edward Snowden events. … [The main character] comes back to a law firm in Boston. I play one of the three partners of the law firm [and] I enjoy the fact that I’m a very smart woman who is a mentor to a younger lawyer and leads with her brain. She has a wife, three rescue dogs and a couple of kids.
Are there any roles you hope to play in the future?
I don’t think I’ve been very secretive about wanting to play “Mame” or [Dolly in] “Hello Dolly!,” great leading lady roles. I often think about playing Desiree in “A Little Night Music” as well, but I think my best role is out there and is being written right now.
Anyone you haven’t worked with who you would like to work with?
I’m going to say Frances McDormand; she is one of my favorite actresses, always on a whole other level. And then there’s Sally Fields, another one who when it comes to the acting department, I’m just always in awe of.
Can you give us a hint about what to expect in your show at Beth Tfiloh on June 8?
I’m starting to do music off my new album, “The Art of Elegance.” I’m going to represent Dolly Parton and [sing] a song about my parents, maybe some Don Henley. It should be a good, diverse evening, but mainly it’ll be fun.
For information, visit bethtfiloh.com
Top photo: Kristin Chenoweth comes to Beth Tfiloh Dahan Community School’s Spotlight 2017 event. (Handout photo)
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