Beth Leavel

Beth Leavel starred as 'Emily' in the new Broadway holiday show Elf, which played at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre from 2 Nov 2009 - 2 Jan 2011.

Birthday
Nov 1st...a long time ago...

Place of birth?
Raleigh, N.C.

You now live in?
Harrington Park, NJ.

Did you go to training school, if so which one?
MFA in acting/directing at UNC-G (University of North Carolina @ Greensboro 5. I LOVE the stage!

Your first stage performance was?
My senior year in High School I was "Bonnie Jean" in Brigadoon....I was hooked!!!

Career highlight to date?
I would have to say winning the 2006 TONY award for The Drowsy Chaperone.

What roles would you most like to play?
They have yet to be written!!! Can't wait...

What is the best advice you have ever received?
Follow your passion and be prepared and persistent!

What has been your most embarrassing moment on stage?
In "Young Frankenstien" I came running down the stairs and tripped on my dress and went face first into the floor. God Bless Roger Bart who asked.."Ah Frauline Bleucher...are you OK?" Wish I had thought of a snappy come-back!!!

What is the most annoying part about your job?
My most annoying part of the job is commuting and the traffic!!!!

Briefly tell us how you become involved with Elf?
I was asked to do a reading of ELF and then the workshop last fall and the rest is history.

Briefly tell us about the character you play in Elf?
I play Emily Hobbs who is Buddy the Elf's Step-Mom!

If you had not become a performer, what might you have done instead?
I would have been an interior decorator.

Who are your favorite actors/actresses?
Meryl Streep and Stanley Tucci.....but I could go on and on....

If you could meet anyone in the world dead or alive who would it be and what would you say to them?
My Grandmother who I never knew....would love to ask her about her history and my family!

Favorite after-show haunts?
That changes every show! Now I love to go to Kodama which is right across the street!

What was the last book you read, and name some of your favorite authors?
I read "The Dress Lodger" Wonderful!! I am currently reading "Water for Elephants"

What was the last film you saw, and name some of your favorite movies?
Social Network...loved it!!!!!

Favorite TV programs?
Modern Family and Mad Men!!

Favorite holiday destinations?
HOME....

Do you have any superstitions?
I really don't have superstitions....except I don't whistle backstage...

What are your future plans?
I can't wait for my future plans to reveal themselves!!! You just never know....