A-Sides with Jon Chattman: A Music Site Minus The PretensionInformal. Exclusive. Not the Same Broken Record.

Jul
16thA-Sides Interview: Andrew Keenan-Bolger Talks “Newsies”

It’s fitting that Broadway star Andrew Keenan-Bolger is appearing in an Alan Menken-penned musical on Broadway. Much like the famed and multi-award winning composer (“Tangled,” “The Little Mermaid” – the list goes on), Keenan-Bolger is finding himself in the good graces of Disney. Prior to taking on the role of Crutchie in Disney’s “Newsies: The Musical,” he’s appeared in “mouse” company productions of “Mary Poppins” and “Beauty and the Beast.” He’s also starred as Omar in the world premiere of “Aladdin.” In an interview at the Primary Wave Music Listening Room in New York City, I spoke with the young Broadway star, and asked him why he’s been so fortunate to appear in so many Disney incarnations. I also spoke to him about the evolution of the “Newsies” musical, which he’s been a part of from the getgo, and what he thought of the critically-panned/cult sensation film the current Tony Award-winning musical is based on. Watch. Listen. Love. [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y9wJVv1dYdc&w=560&h=315] About A-Sides with Jon Chattman Jon Chattman’s music series typically features artists (established or not) from all genres performing a track, and discussing what it means to them. This informal series focuses on the artist making art in a low-threatening, extremely informal (sometimes humorous) way. No bells, no whistles — just the music performed in a random, low-key setting followed by an unrehearsed chat. In an industry where everything often gets overblown and over manufactured, I’m hoping this is refreshing.Note: in this case, it’s just an informal interview. No song. [...]