Michael McElory has one of the best males voices on Broadway. His voice has the power to transport you from reality to a heavenly world where all is good. Michael is the founder of the “Broadway Inspirational Voices,” a group of Broadway actors, who come together and volunteer their time and talent to perform traditional American Music with an emphasis on Gospel all around the country. He has been nominated for both a Tony Award and Drama Desk Award for his role in the Roundabout Theatre/Deaf West’s Broadway production of “Big River” in 2004. Michael has also belted out in such Broadway shows as “Rent,” “The Wild Party,” “The Who’s Tommy,” “Miss Saigon,” “Patti LuPone on Broadway,” and “High Rollers.” Off-Broadway, Michael has entertained audiences in “Some Men” (Second Stage), “Blue” (also with Roudabout Theatre), “Violet” (Playwrights Horizon), and “Richard III” (NYSF). On-tour and regionally, Michael has been seen in “Big River” for which he won the 2006 Helen Hayes Award, “Sarafina,” “Broadway Three Generations,” “Blue,” and “Angels in America I & II.” On Television, Michael has light up the screen in “Cantebury Law,” “Love Monkey,” “All My Children,” and “Spin City.” Currently Michael can be seen touring the country in “Rent” as Tom Collins (which he also played on Broadway in the final cast, which is available on DVD).
1. Who inspired you to become a performer? I was inspired by my mother. Growing up in Ohio, she would take me to see all the tours that came through Cleveland. I saw the National tours of “Porgy and Bess,” “The Wiz,” “West Side Story,” “Best Little Whorehouse,”…I loved it.
2. What has been your best and worst experience in a show? The Deaf West Production of “Big River” was definitely a highlight for many reasons. I’d never done a show like that. I learned sign language and gained a new perspective through another’s experience.
My worst experience shall remain nameless. The funny thing is I didn’t know it was an awful experience until many years later when I looked back.
3. Do you have any strange or unusual talent that no one knows about? I don’t think so. Does that make me boring? The only thing I can think of is I love to sing off key. Love it.
4. Who is the one person you haven’t worked with that you would like to? I’ve been fortunate enough to work with some incredible folks: Eartha Kitt, Leslie Uggams, Phylicia Rashad, George Wolfe, Michael Greif, Graciela Danielle, Jeanine Tesori, Michael John LaChiusa. Can’t think of anyone offhand that I’m dying to work with. I just take each experience as it comes. I’ve been really blessed.
5. Favorite store to shop in? Macy’s. They have clothes that fit me.
6. Favorite way to stay in shape? Go to the gym 6 days a week.
7. Boxers or Briefs? Hmmmm pass lol.
8. Favorite pastime? Cooking for friends.
9. Favorite website? Amazon.com. They love me. I buy all my new books, dvd, music, and electronics on this site. Youtube is a close second. Love watching footage of seasoned and new performers.
10. Superman or Wonder Woman? Wonder Woman. The theme song alone puts her over the top.
BONUS QUESTION:
11. What’s the best advice you’ve given, but not taken for yourself? Be present. Live fully in the moment.
Adaumbelle's Quest 