For some, as the lyric goes, the seaweed is always greener in somebody else’s lake. But for actor Kyle Taylor Parker, it’s all about relishing in your own path, and taking pride in “authentically being yourself.”
His personal path has taken him to Broadway – where he’s appeared in the original cast of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and as Lola in Kinky Boots – Off-Broadway and on tour (credits include Smokey Joe’s Cafe, Finian’s Rainbow, In the Heights, and Songs for a New World); and into the recording studio, where he’s laid down not one, but two solo albums, fusing the best of Broadway showtunes with a R&B flair. Now, he readies to sharpen his claws to star as Sebastian – and, therefore, sing that iconic aforementioned line – in The Little Mermaid, the stage adaptation of the classic 1989 Disney film, which plays New Jersey’s Paper Mill Playhouse through June 29th.
Before beginning on his undersea journey in full, we caught up with Parker to talk being primed for his Paper Mill return, the impact of the theatre company’s mission statement, how he put his own stamp on the iconic crabby crustacean, and why he, aptly, thinks “life is the bubbles” while performing in this production.
Have a look at his answers below!
What was it about Sebastian that spoke to you? Why was this show — and this role — “the one” to do for you?
Sebastian is the perfect balance of story and song, which really appealed to me. I've played a lot of characters who find joy easily, so it's been fun to explore a character who has to fight a little harder to find it. It also presented an opportunity to play with physicality in a way I haven't yet at this point in my career. And then, come on… “Under the Sea”? “Kiss the Girl”?! I'm so lucky to be able to sing those tunes! When prepping for my audition, I thought, “I love the music, and I've never played a crab, so... sign me up!”
And what is your history with the piece? Were you one of those people who wore out the Disney movie, or were influenced by past productions?
I must have watched [the film] a ton as a kid, but I haven't really thought about it in a long time, which is liberating as an actor. I don't feel tied down to any version other than the one we’re making here for the audiences at Paper Mill Playhouse.
You’ve had a diversified career as a performer, from Broadway to Off-Broadway shows, national tours to regional work like this production (in addition, of course, to your two successful Broadway Soul albums, which have cemented your success as a recording artist, but still stay true to your Broadway & theatre roots). What is it about theatre and theatrical artistry and this life that does it for you? Why is this your calling?
I love storytelling — it’s at the heart of everything I do. I love that theatre offers us a moment together to work through a corner of the human experience... to check in with each other and [know] we’re not alone. George C. Wolfe has a gorgeous quote about theatre being “people sitting in the dark watching people in the light discovering what a horrible, awful, wonderful thing it is to be human.” You can’t do that on an album. You can’t do that anywhere but in a theatre. That’s why I love it.
Can you talk about what it’s like working with Paper Mill Playhouse? How does their programming and mission and values align with yours as an artist? Why should audiences support regional theatres like Paper Mill?
I always feel so seen and welcome as an artist at Paper Mill. Their productions are top-tier, and the people are kind. It’s an easy “yes”.
Can you talk about working with this cast and [director] JoAnn Hunter? How has she put her stamp on this production that makes it stand out from others?
I don't think I've ever laughed this much during a rehearsal process, and that is 100% thanks to JoAnn Hunter and the fabulous cast she's assembled.
Working with her is like the best version of a trust fall: I try, I fail, we laugh. I try, I win, we laugh. No matter what, she is right there with you at every turn exploring and playing in the sand… or, rather, sea (laughs). Her vision for the story is honest and fun, and I'm honored to be a part of it.
And how about for you as Sebastian? How have you put your stamp on the role to bring more KTP to the role?
I love style, and since Sebastian is a crab with a Jamaican accent, I've decided to really dig into calypso and reggae music to authentically inform the vocal ad libs on my material without disturbing the brilliance of Alan Menken.
In that same vein, how has Sebastian helped to inform you, Kyle Taylor Parker, as a person?
I value the idea of fun a lot more these days. It’s revitalizing, healing, and always available. Life is short, so be a fun crab.
In the spirit of The Little Mermaid, what is one thing you would give up your voice for?
World peace.
Why should someone come see this show? And what message do you hope to instill in them when they do?
The themes in the show never really go out of style. Coming of age, finding your footing in the world (and on your own terms), and fighting for what you believe in are always important stories to tell and bring young people to witness. Plus, the costumes are pure magic! We are taking you under the sea!!
Finally, now that you’re experiencing it for yourself through this production, is life really better under the sea?
(Laughs). Absolutely!
The Little Mermaid plays Paper Mill Playhouse (22 Brookside Dr. in Millburn, NJ) through June 29th. For tickets and more information, click here. For more information on Parker, visit his website or view his Instagram @ktpway.
