Since 1964, no Christmas season was complete without a viewing (or several) of the claymation Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
. Now thanks to a live musical version of the classic film, we can all feel like a kid again by visiting the Theatre of Madison Square Garden. From the North Pole to the Island of Misfit Toys, everything you love about the movie comes to life on stage.BroadwayBox caught up with Wesley Edwards (who stars as Rudolph's best bud Hermey, the elf who dreams of being a dentist) to talk about touring with this beloved property, falling in love with dance, and his reality TV obsession.
1. When I tell people I’m Hermey in Rudolph, I most often hear:
"You sound just like him!" I'm very lucky to have a similar voice to the movie. It's what lead me to this awesome opportunity!
2. The scene in the show that brings me the most joy:
I love when Rudolph, Yukon, and I are running from the Bumble, The Abominable Snow Monster! The kids really react and you can feel how invested they are in the story. I also love when Rudolph flies, of course!
3. Most memorable Christmas gift I received in my childhood:
I got a big stuffed animal gorilla from Santa once. I loved it!
4. The tour city I totally could see myself living in:
I love extremes in weather. So, it would either be West Palm Beach or NYC.
5. The moment I fell in love with dance:
During the break I took from college, I figured out how my body moved and I couldn't get enough of how I felt while dancing. It was the reason I went back to school.
6. My favorite thing to do on a day off:
I love exploring all the different cities. If there is anything unique to a city, then I'm there! I've gotten to go to the Boston Aquarium, The Liberty Bell, and the beach in pretty much the span of one week.
7. My most memorable audition story:
I threw up once in a dance call, that was fun. I also forgot the title and all the lyrics to my song once. I try to forget those but they always loom over me.
8. Movie I quote way too often:
Rudolph, definitely Rudolph at this point.
9. This year for Christmas, I really want:
To see my puppy!! My boyfriend and I got a puppy last year and I just can't wait for our little family to be together again! He's a Yorkie mix and he's such a good boy! We are just so proud of him.
10. Most embarrassing show on my DVR:
I'm a sucker for reality TV. I never missed an episode of Jersey Shore.
Don't miss Wesley Edwards in 'Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical' at The Theater at Madison Square Garden through December 18.
