What is your role in The Great Gatsby?
Myrtle Wilson
Can you tell us a little bit about the show & your character?
Myrtle is a dreamer through and through. She is determined and driven to create a new life for herself. She is unapologetically herself, which is an exciting type of person to play. She’s loud, and spunky, and full of life. I just love her.
The Great Gatsby tour production shot by Evan Zimmerman
How was the rehearsal process?
Absolutely fantastic. Our creatives not only created a magical, exciting piece of theatre onstage, but they are a joy to work with offstage as well. Being in the room with people who want to collaborate and allow you to bring your thoughts and ideas to the characters is such a special thing, and I’m so grateful that is the environment we had. We set the show in NY for roughly three weeks which is pretty quick for a show of this size, and watching the ensemble literally form as a unit everyday was so cool.
Lila in NYC rehearsals for THE GREAT GATSBY
Do you have a favorite moment in the show?
I love performing ‘Second Hand Suit.’ the number is flashy and fun and it never gets old to do.
How is life on the road?
Life on the road is so fun! I’m traveling with my adorable Corgi and fiancé, and we just have a blast. We got to go on amazing walks along the river in DC and the lake in Chicago. We’ve now been to the rodeo Houston, seen the cubs play at Wrigley field, seen numerous aquariums, and danced to jazz music in the French quarter! It’s a dream!
Lila with her finacé & pet corgi
What’s your pre-show warmup like?
I have the honor of sharing a dressing room with the lovely Leanne Robinson. She is a light on and off stage, and we warm up everyday together. I like to get to the theatre early and set up my station and make it cozy. For the most part my ritual is to just say hello to everybody warm up my voice and Boyd, drink a lot of water, and try to make sure my mind is in a positive attitude for the day! It’s fairly simple but it works.
Lila & Leanne backstage
Where are you from originally?
I am a New Yorker through and through. I grew up just outside NYC, and have pretty much never left the state long term except for when I’m on tour!
Lila and her fellow cast members of THE GREAT GATSBY
Can you tell us about how you got into performing arts?
I auditioned for my first show at age 8 with my friend Maddy because she didn’t want to audition alone. I didn’t get the show, but the youth theatre group saw potential in me and asked me if I would come back for the next show. I’ve been doing theatre ever since.
Lila's first headshot
Do you remember your first role either professional or amateur?
Yes! I was. Gingerbread cookie in Hansel and Gretel! It was a lot of fun.
What piece of advice would you give to young aspiring performers?
Work hard, be yourself, be kind, don’t compare yourself to others, and learn to trust yourself as much as possible. Surround yourself with the people who make you feel good and confident, and learn anything and everything you can from those around you who have been in your shoes before.
Lila as a young actress
Is this your first time performing at Playhouse Square?
No this will be my second time, I came here previously with the first national tour of Anastasia in 2020, and had even visited prior when applying for college with my dad!
Lila at Playhouse Square with the tour of Anastasia
Why should audiences come and see this production?
It’s a timeless story that anyone can relate to, filled with glitz and glamor, amazing music, thrilling choreography and flashy costumes! You’re gonna have the best time at the party!
