What is your role in SUFFS?
I portray Dudley Malone.
Can you tell us a little bit about the story of the SUFFS (no spoilers!)
SUFFS tells the story of the arduous collective effort the Suffragists went through to obtain the right to vote for women in the United States from 1913-1917.
Can you tell us a little bit about your character?
Dudley Malone is President Wilson’s newly appointed Chief of Staff. He is an intelligent, sweet, a little quirky and endearing Irish American lawyer who is honored to serve his country and his President. He’s the protégé whose devotion, trust and support of Wilson gets tested after hearing Doris Stevens, a Suffragist, point of view of women’s rights and seeing the lengths President Wilson will go to deny them. Being disillusioned and feeling that he has a moral responsibility to keep his word to the women of the country, Dudley makes the choice to sever ties with Wilson and join the Suffragist movement.
SUFFS production shot by Joan Marcus
How was the rehearsal process?
The rehearsal process was lovely. We have such a supportive and collaborative creative team and crew. It was truly beautiful to watch everyone breathe life into this story and to see how they embodied these historical figures.
Rehearsals for SUFFS
The work that every artist put in to really find nuance, specificity and truth to make sure they were telling this story from a place of honesty and respect, while also finding the levity and joy made the process exciting to be a part of.
Brandi on first day of rehearsals for SUFFS
How is life on the road? Any favorite spots you’ve visited so far?
Life on the road is an adjustment. It’s hard at times and yet still beautiful. I’m so happy that I have the opportunity to bring this show to audiences across the country and see how much of a positive impact it has on audiences. I also love that I get to connect and spend time with family and friends; some of whom I haven’t seen in years. That’s truly been such a gift that I am so thankful for and will cherish.
Brandi with family in Philadelphia
The road can get a bit hard because unless we’re in a city for more than a week, we don’t really get a day off. Our day off is generally spent traveling to get to the next city. So that can be hard, especially after a five-show weekend to properly rest, then acclimate to our new environment and get situated before we start the next week. Also, a year on the road means I don’t get to spend much time with my husband and friends who are back in NYC, but it has been amazing to have them come visit when they can!
There have been so many cities that I loved! Philly was amazing! I loved getting to go back to Napa Valley while I was in San Fran and then back to the Magic Castle in LA. Salt Lake City, Utah was beautiful, and the air was so crisp. Also seeing the gorgeous Bellagio installation in Las Vegas with Danyel was amazing.
Brandi with fellow cast member Danyel in Las Vegas
If you meant food spots; Tarantino’s Vegan in Las Vegas had a Lasagna that was so delicious! I’m still dreaming about it! Every Farmers Market!!!
What is your pre-show ritual / warmup?
My pre-show ritual is buzzing scales and my lines through a straw in water. Then I do some articulator warmups.
What is your favorite moment in the show?
There are so many!!! One is listening to Marya Grandy sing “This Girl”…I’m in awe of her gift and her and how she navigates that each show!
Where are you from originally and where did you train as a performer?
I am originally from Olney, Maryland. I was a theater major, music minor at Lafayette College and I spent my junior year abroad at Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts. After I graduated with my BFA, I went to graduate school at Boston Conservatory (now known as Boston Conservatory at Berklee). These days, I continue to study and work on my craft with my coaches in NYC.
Can you tell us about how you got into performing arts, do you remember your first role either professional or amateur?
I was always re-enacting TV shows as a child. I mean full out! I just really wanted to be on the screen. It wasn’t until middle school when I joined the TV/Film class where my passion was truly ignited. My teacher, Mr. Maurice Johnson introduced me to everything from acting on screen to being able to work behind the camera. We had to write skits, commercials, shorts…everything. One day he pulled me aside after class and asked me if I ever considered pursuing acting. He told me I should consider it. Then he asked if I ever thought of doing musical theater and well…here I am in SUFFS.
My first professional job after grad school was the Junie B Jones: Essential Survival Guide to School National Tour with TheaterworksUSA directed by Peter Flynn and choreographed by Dev Janki. I played Lucille and others. Then after they brought me back to bring the show Off-Broadway at the Lucille Lortel theater in NYC.
Brandi in Junie B Jones
My first role was Harriet Tubman in my 4th grade history project. Instead of just telling her story, I chose to embody it. So much so, that during my presentation I pretended to faint and my teacher rushed to the front of the class in a panic. I slowly opened my eyes and, still in character, I told her it must have been one of my fainting spells. I think I got an A. She called my mom and let her know.
What piece of advice would you give to young aspiring performers?
Please know that there is no linear path in this industry. Your path is yours and yours alone. There will be ebbs and flows, highs and lows, quiet periods, overwhelming times, and all are a part of your unique journey. Trust that what is for you won't pass you. Please remember your reason why and continue to hone your craft, keep learning, growing and keep showing up. Oh, and be kind!
Brandi as Dudley Malone in SUFFS
Is this your first time performing at Playhouse Square? Ever been to Cleveland before?
This will be my second time performing here. I performed here with A Bronx Tale 1st National Tour.
Why should audiences come and see this production?
Audiences should come see this show because each artist that takes the stage and everyone that works behind the scenes is extraordinary, the music is outstanding and the story is timely and poignant!
The Deltas, SUFFS
SUFFS is a beautiful reminder that there was a time in history when this particular fight seemed impossible, when people are enduring their worst and when the current administration was against them, AND STILL there was HOPE! These women chose hope! Every day they chose to act, chose to organize, chose to work together and despite their differences in methods and backgrounds, they chose to keep marching on. I hope that message will provide a sense of comfort, catharsis and inspire the next person to do the same.
The cast & crew of SUFFS