As a fresh new transport to Austin, my first order of business was to launch myself headfirst into the ripe world of film and theatre in the quirky live music capital of the world. Having previously released an original album, the singer-songwriter spirit of the city called to me and I instantly felt aligned. I was excited to get my feet wet with auditions and thankfully my first was a success! Cabernet Cabaret, a seasonal musical theatre compilation with a handful of stage performers, was a great note to begin on. Founded and hosted by Austin native Emily Villarreal who was no stranger to the city’s theatre scene, the event served as an introduction to many of us who were new to town, some coming directly from the stages of NYC. In her words:
“Cabernet Cabaret was created with the intention of giving Austin's finest talent the opportunity to perform in a professional environment and to help build personal resumes and reels.”
Just what I needed! Due to the particular time of year, the whimsical theme of our showcase was centered on Halloween. I sang two haunting numbers from “Ragtime” and “Dracula”, accompanied by the phenomenally talented Tyler Groft.
Insider note: the week of the performance Texas allergens took me by storm, leaving my voice in a state of unrecognizable hoarseness I’d have never been privy to. Leading up to the night of, I was in a state of panic as my vocal chords were completely swollen and all but nonexistent due to natural factors. Thanks to tips from my professional cast of vocalists I was able to overcome with natural remedies, steam and tea. By the grace of God, on the evening of the performance, my voice was almost completely up to par.