Jasmin Richardson gives a breakout performance as Nicki Marron, Rachel Marron's smart, organized sister who dreams of a singing career of her own, in the US premiere of The Bodyguard
at Paper Mill Playhouse. As Nicki, Richardson (who has toured the world as Felicia in Memphis and Deena Jones in Dreamgirls) gets to sing some of Whitney Houston's most gorgeous ballads like "Saving All My Love", "All At Once", and "Run to You".
BroadwayBox caught up with Jasmin to learn more about her history with Whitney music, life on tour, and how she unwinds when she's not performing.
1. Three things I love about Nicki Marron:
She loves comfortable yet sexy clothes. Like any strong woman, she's cool and calm under pressure. With a smile on her face she will tell you.
2. My memory of seeing The Bodyguard movie for the first time:
I was young in elementary when I first experienced The Bodyguard. My mother is a huge Whitney Houston fan so I was enlightened at an early age. I remember the first time I heard her voice and saw her face it was life changing. Here was this incredible woman who looked like me, I could see myself in her so that encouraged my singing immensely. Whitney was the kind of singer that when she opened her mouth everything just stopped that's why she was called "The Voice." She has impacted my life greatly and it's been an honor to sing her music everyday.
3. When I hear this Whitney song I can’t help but bust a move:
"Queen of the Night" is my jam! It's so empowering and it makes me want to put my heels on and strut honey. I definitely LOVE that song and I'm happy it's the opening number for our show. It definitely grabs the audience's attention.
4. The first time I saw my Clinique campaign:
I was just so proud. What I loved about that campaign is that it truly embraced my natural beauty, the make-up was used to enhance my look not cover it up. So I felt pride when I first got a look at our videos and photos.
5. My favorite city I’ve visited on tour with a show:
New Orleans! The beignets are amazing and when I'm in a show I always try to be conscious of what I put into my body. However in New Orleans that all goes out the window. I eat EVERYTHING when I'm there! I already have a list of restaurants that I have to try when I get there on this tour.
6. My pre-show ritual for The Bodyguard includes:
I love to connect with my castmates before the show starts. So I'll stop by Deborah's room for a quick sister sister connection, maybe even a dance party when we're really in the mood. And I have to listen to Whitney; her voice centers me and makes me grateful for this experience.
7. My most memorable audition story:
The Bodyguard. I have NEVER had an experience where from the moment I walked in the room I felt at home and at peace with myself. And you better believe that audition was packed with people—writers, producers, and creative team. I just felt like Cinderella putting on her glass slippers—the show just fits me like a glove. I'm so blessed to have a show like this musically that is an extension of myself as an artist; I grew up on this music it's the soundtrack of my life.
8. A role on my Broadway bucket list:
I really want to originate a role. There are some incredible shows on Broadway but I would love be apart of something that is uniquely me, like Hamilton. That show gives you insight into the creative genius that was that original cast and production team, that's why it's so successful.
9. Three things I need for a two-show-day:
I need hugs in order to make it.
A good equity cot.
My iPad so I can answer e-mails and hopefully catch up on my favorite shows.
10. TV show or movie I love to kick back and watch when I want to just chill:
I'm a huge TV buff! I love the show Insecure on HBO, Peaky Blinders, The Mindy Project, This is Us. I'm the friend who is always giving movie and TV suggestions. I just love a great TV shows.
Don't miss Jasmin Richardson in 'The Bodyguard' at Paper Mill Playhouse through January 1 then on tour at a city near you.
