John Michael Fiumara makes a remarkable Broadway debut as featured dancer Specs in the hit musical Newsies. To celebrate the musical's two-year anniversary on Broadway, BroadwayBox is hosting a Newsies takeover (#NewsiesWeek), and Fiumara is kicking it off as this week's Monday crush. Hear from the former Mr. Dance of America and Abby Lee Dance Company member about special fansie gifts, his Friends connection and his favorite NYC hangout.
1. Dancing onstage at the Nederlander Theatre makes me feel
It’s kind of hard to explain. It’s like a mixture of exhilaration, adrenaline, happiness, and thankfulness all rolled into one that comes in little bursts here and there throughout the show. I just can't believe that I do what I love for a living. That’s certainly a part of what fuels those emotions. The fact that I get to do that every night with people that I love and trust just makes it all that much better!
2. The coolest Fansie gift I’ve received is
A "Specs" owl! It had on a striped shirt with a vest and glasses…It’s awesome! I’ve gotten a few drawings too, which was really cool. And, of course, getting Schmackarys’ cookies while signing is always an unexpected treat!:) It’s all so thoughtful and very humbling.
3. My favorite Disney movie growing up was
Toy Story!
4. My favorite artist to freestyle dance to is
Frank Ocean
5. My favorite spot in New York is
My favorite place for now is Bryant Park, cause it’s right next to the theater, and I can just go there on a two show day during our dinner break to just chill. Plus, it’s really great to see some plant life once in a while! Lincoln Square is also a close second! So is Union Square!
6. The TV character I most relate to is
Joey Tribbiani from Friends. He loves food, I love food… boom.
7. My favorite Abby Lee Miller memory is
Last year she came and saw the show and told me how proud she was of me while most of my studio surrounded us. It was such a special moment, and something I’ll have with me always.
8. The last book I read that moved me was
Perks of Being a Wallflower.
9. The app I can’t live without
The Seamless app! I think this contributes to my answer for the sixth question above ;)
10. The most ridiculous competition/recital costume from growing up dancing was
It was one of my first tap dances when I was little, and we danced to "Animal Crackers In My Soup.” I was in a zebra-print unitard…
