“It was so good after the pandemic to jump back on the stage and to jump into such an iconic, meaty, sassy role. I couldn’t ask for anything else.”
Welcome Illeana Kirven:
We’re joined on the Starline by an award winning singer, actor, dancer, director and choreographer. You’ve seen her in the national tour of “The Sunshine Boys” among hundreds of other shows. Her latest project is playing Matron Momma Morton on the National Tour of “CHICAGO, The Musical”. We welcome Illeana Kirven.
Illeana, let’s go Beyond the Mic. The pandemic and a casting agent were adversity you had to overcome before you got here. How did overcoming those moments make playing Matron Momma Morton so sweet 8 times a week?
You researched the trial behind the play. What’s the one fact that you discovered that amazed you?
Why is Chicago such a great musical?
The Rockin’ 8:
It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.
1. Best BTS song is…
2. Other than your BTS Funko Pop! Figurines, what’s the one thing from home you had to bring with you?
3. Favorite amusement park in Texas and what was your favorite ride?
4. You are called the “Re-inventress” supreme of your career, who is the one person who encouraged you on this road that isn’t related to you?
5. What’s the one meal that only your momma could make?
6. Favorite theatre from all around the world?
7. Who are the three women not related to you that inspire you every day?
8. When eating a smore, how do you like your marshmallows cooked: slightly brown or burned?
The Back Half:
Where did you get you love of music?
So who is the non BTS musical artist that you always sing?
What did you warm up to last night?
You have performed from coast to coast for plenty of years. What makes this adventure so important to you?
Who are the people you worked with on Chicago that you are the momma to on the road?
What is your best road trip tip?
Where is the 1st place you have to find when you arrive at a new city?
Advice:
Illy, you toured with the late greats Frank Gorshen and Dick Van Patton. What piece of advice did they share with you on the road?
If you could share the stage with one actor or actress dead or alive, for just one night. Who would it be?
Your production company says “Theatre is art. Why do we invest in a piece of artwork? Because we have a special appreciation for it.” How did you appreciation of art begin and evolve?
Best memory from your mother?
What makes Chicago: the Musical so special for you?
So many people have played this role and have put their own touch on it. What’s the one thing that you used in your portrayal of the character?
Who taught you to hustle, love and shine?
What does it mean when you’re back home in Texas?
One Big Question:
You once said “Have a blessed day. And if your day is not so blessed, you are capable of making it so!” How has your experience spreading love and joy through music changed you and others?
The Wrap:
Where can people find you online?
Illeana Kirven can’t cook her momma’s fried chicken and loves thrifting in every place she goes. She plays Matron Momma Morton in “CHICAGO, The Musical”, Illy thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.
And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.
Listen to other Beyond the Mic episode with stars from the theater here.
Check out Illy’s website here.
