The performing arts are important in a society. It serves as a powerful medium for expression, connection, and transformation. Through theatre, music, and dance, artists have the ability to evoke emotions. Through performing arts, artists get to challenge societal norms. At the same time, performances bring people together in shared experiences. It may be a digital world but live performances remain a vital form of storytelling. It is within this rich tapestry of creativity that we find performers like Katherine Pound, who embody the passion and dedication that the arts inspire.
Katherine Pound has made significant strides in her career, showcasing her talent across a variety of esteemed productions. Her notable roles include Anna Maurrant in Street Scene, Ida Strauss in Titanic, and Cinderella in Into the Woods. Most recently, she captivated audiences as Mayor Matilda in All Shook Up. Her performances truly show her ability to bring complex characters to life. She breathes life into each performance. Katherine’s impressive repertoire also extends to various cabaret performances and concerts. She has showcased her versatility as a soloist and ensemble member. Her accolades also speak volumes. She has multiple first-place finishes in prestigious music festivals and competitions. These accolades are evident to her outstanding contributions to the arts.
New York Art Life had the chance to have an exclusive interview with Katherine. We invite you to discover the artistry and insights of a performer who is not only committed to her craft but also passionate about inspiring the next generation of artists. Join us as we explore Katherine’s experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the world of performance, and be inspired by her exceptional love for the arts.
New York Art Life: In “Spellbound,” you performed as a soloist. How did performing as a soloist differ from your experiences in ensemble roles?
Katherine Pound: That role was such a delight! Performing as a soloist in ‘Spellbound’ was a rewarding yet challenging experience. It’s a really different experience to perform as a soloist than be in ensemble roles. As a soloist, I felt a profound sense of ownership over the material. Because of having a sense of ownership, I was able to get into the emotional and interpretive aspects of each song. The spotlight was solely on me! It was exhilarating. I felt vulnerable yet the sense of excitement’s always there. I loved the challenge of connecting with the audience through my interpretations.
However, the solo spotlight also came with its own set of challenges. I felt the pressure. With the solo spotlight, it’s hard to make mistakes on stage. If you do, people would really notice. Plus, I needed to ensure I conveyed the emotional depth of each piece while maintaining vocal clarity and presence. To prepare myself for this role, I spent time not only practicing the music but also reflecting on the stories behind each song. I’m thankful to be fully prepared because it helped me connect with the audience on a more profound level! The feedback I received after the performance? It made me proud of myself! My “Spellbound” soloist experience was a fulfilling one.
New York Art Life: In “Into the Woods,” you played as Cinderella. What challenges did you face while performing in a production like “Into the Woods,” and how did you overcome them?
Katherine Pound: Cinderella, what a memorable role! Performing in ‘Into the Woods’ presented several challenges. The narrative had a complex structure with intertwining stories of the characters. One significant challenge was ensuring that my portrayal of Cinderella remained consistent throughout the various shifts in the storyline. The musical’s themes of desire, sacrifice, and consequence. It required me to navigate my character’s emotional journey. At the same time, I had to be aware of how her decisions impacted others. To overcome this, I leaned heavily on my director and fellow cast members. I engaged in open discussions with them. Our conversations led to understanding how our characters’ stories intertwined. We supported one another like a family! I’m grateful for them.
Another challenge was the emotional weight of some of Cinderella’s scenes. There were moments when I had to tap into deep feelings of sadness and isolation. Some of them were overwhelming. To manage this, I developed techniques to ground myself before performances. I did things such as deep breathing and visualization exercises. Ultimately, these challenges enriched my performance.
New York Art Life: You played Anna Maurrant in “Street Scene.” How did you collaborate with director Ted Sperling to bring the character to life?
Katherine Pound: Working with Ted Sperling was an incredible opportunity that greatly influenced my portrayal of Anna Maurrant! From the beginning, Ted encouraged us to dig deep into our characters’ emotional scenes. We had such a lovely and collaborative environment! All of us felt comfortable sharing our ideas and interpretations. This openness allowed me to explore Anna’s complexities in ways I hadn’t anticipated. Most importantly, Ted’s insights into the piece also guided my understanding of Anna’s struggles. This helped me shape her character with authenticity and depth.
Also, throughout the rehearsal process, we often had discussions about the themes of the play and how they connected to contemporary issues. Through these conversations, I was able to see Anna not just as a character from the past, but as a woman facing struggles that resonate in today’s society. Truly, Ted’s direction and vision helped me understand the nuances of Anna’s relationships with other characters. With that understanding, I felt empowered to make bold choices that reflected her emotional turmoil.
New York Art Life: You have numerous performances in cabarets. Can you describe the atmosphere of cabaret performances compared to traditional theatre productions?
Katherine Pound: I love love love performing in cabarets. Cabaret performances create a unique and intimate atmosphere. It’s quite different from traditional theatre productions. In cabaret, there’s a sense of informality and spontaneity. It allows for a more personal connection between the performer and the audience. Cabarets have a relaxed vibe. It makes the audience feel like they are part of the experience rather than just spectators. This creates a sense of openness that encourages me to be more expressive and playful in my performances. This intimacy makes it incredibly fulfilling.
Also, I often find myself engaging in light banter with the audience. It really makes the experience enjoyable for the audience as well as myself. Plus, it creates memorable moments that linger long after the performance is over. This energy is something I cherish. It reminds me that theatre is not just about the script but about shared experiences. Each cabaret performance is unique and special to me.
New York Art Life: As Ida Strauss in “Titanic,” how did you approach the emotional depth required for Ida Strauss in “Titanic”?
Katherine Pound: Ida Strauss is a character steeped in love and tragedy. Preparing for this role is an emotional journey itself. I approached her with the understanding that her relationship with Isidor is at the heart of her story. To convey the profound depth of their bond, I immersed myself in their history. I researched the real events surrounding the Titanic disaster. Plus, I channeled the feelings I felt when I first watched the Titanic. It was important for me to honor their legacy by portraying the love of Ida and Isidor authentically.
In rehearsals, I found myself connecting deeply with Ida’s feelings of loyalty and compassion. I aimed to embody those qualities while also expressing her strength and resilience. There were moments in the performance where I had to tap into deep emotional reserves. I learned to draw from my own experiences of love and loss. I think this really added layers to my portrayal. Each performance felt like a tribute not just to Ida but to all those who faced unimaginable adversity.
New York Art Life: What was unique about performing in an operatic role like Drusilla in “L’Incoronazione di Poppea” compared to musical theatre?
Katherine Pound: Performing as Drusilla in ‘L’Incoronazione di Poppea’ was a fascinating experience that differed significantly from my musical theatre roles. Opera demands a different vocal technique. You need a deeper understanding of the music’s emotional context. There was the challenge of delivering powerful arias while embodying a character steeped in historical context. It required me to stretch my skills. It was in ways I had not explored before. Most importantly, I found the operatic form liberating. It’s like heightened emotional expression and that is sometimes more subtle in musical theatre.
For Drusilla, I immersed myself in research about the period and the character’s motivations. This helped inform my choices in performance. Understanding the societal norms of Drusilla’s time helped me portray her authentically. Also, I had to ensure her relatable to modern audiences. The music? It was itself a source of inspiration. It guided my emotional responses and allowed me to convey her inner turmoil with depth and clarity.
New York Art Life: You played the lead Role in “All Shook Up” as Mayor Matilda. What was your approach to portraying Mayor Matilda in “All Shook Up,” and how did you connect with the character?
Katherine Pound: Thank you for this question. One of my favorite characters I have played is Mayor Matilda! Portraying her was truly a delightful experience. I mainly focused on the blend of humor and authority she embodies. I wanted to capture her strength as a leader while also showcasing her softer side, which allows her to connect with the townspeople. To do this, I spent time considering her backstory and motivations. I dived into what happened in a small town in the 1950s. I had to research what drives someone to take on such a significant role in a community. I had to prioritize a balance in being authoritative yet approachable. That was the way I could make Matilda relatable and human.
I think I played Mayor Matilda well where the audience could see she’s not just a figure of authority but also someone who cares deeply about her town and its people. I remember one rehearsal where I improvised a line that got a huge laugh from the cast. I love making people laugh. Also, it reminded me how vital it is to be present and allow the character to surprise you. Those moments of spontaneity and connection filled the rehearsals with joy and helped me shape my performance into something that felt authentic and true to Matilda’s spirit.
New York Art Life: What are five key pieces of advice you would give to aspiring performers in the arts looking to succeed in their careers?
Katherine Pound: First and foremost, embrace your uniqueness. Every artist has something special to offer, and it’s crucial to celebrate what makes you different. Don’t try to fit into a mold. Secondly, commit to continuous learning. The performing arts are ever-evolving, and there’s always room for growth. Take classes, attend workshops, and seek feedback from peers and mentors. Third, develop resilience.
The performing arts can be tough, and rejection is part of the journey. It’s essential to build a thick skin and learn to view setbacks as opportunities for growth rather than failures. Fourth, cultivate a strong work ethic. Success in the performing arts often comes down to persistence and dedication. Be prepared to put in the hard work. Lastly, nurture your passion. Always remind yourself why you fell in love with the arts in the first place. Keep that passion alive by seeking out projects and roles that inspire you.
As we conclude our insightful conversation with Katherine Pound, her authenticity speaks volumes about her artistry. Throughout the interview, she has shared her experiences of embracing the complexities of her characters. It shows that her performing arts journey is a commitment. She truly gives her best in connecting deeply with the material she’s presented with. Katherine’s reflections on the transformative power of theatre resonate not only with aspiring performers but also with anyone who appreciates the arts’ ability to foster connection and understanding.
Moreover, Katherine’s journey is also about inspiring the next generation of artists. By sharing her experiences and insights, Katherine aims to empower aspiring performers to embrace their uniqueness and navigate the challenges of the industry with resilience and dedication. This encouragement highlights the essential role that seasoned artists play in shaping the future of the performing arts. Katherine’s journey exemplifies how art can be a catalyst for creativity and community.
As we reflect on Katherine Pound’s remarkable contributions to the performing arts, we invite our readers to delve deeper into her story and experiences through the full interview. Are you an aspiring performer? A seasoned artist? Or simply a lover of the arts? Katherine’s insights are sure to offer inspiration and encouragement. We, New York Art Life, are excited for what’s to come next for Katherine Pound and her artistry.
Katherine Pound as Mayor Matilda
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