Mikkie Bradshaw’s biggest theater role

After years of performing in supporting roles, musical theater actress Mikkie Bradshaw takes on the title role of Atlantis Productions’ upcoming production of Carrie, the gothic horror musical based on the best-selling book by Stephen King.

Based on Stephen’s best-selling novel, Carrie: The Musical features a book by Lawrence Cohen (screenwriter of the classic film), music by Academy Award winner Michael Gore (Fame and Terms of Endearment) and lyrics by Academy Award winner Dean Pitchford (Fame, Footloose). It is directed by Bobby Garcia.

Mikkie has been performing for many years now and has appeared in various Atlantis Productions like Rock of Ages, Nine and Disney’s Aladdin. The demanding role of Carrie White, the abused teenager with telekinetic powers, will be her biggest role to date.

Director Bobby says of Mikkie, “Mikkie brings with her a spectacular singing voice and a well of raw emotion that will be perfect for Carrie. I am excited to begin working with her. I don’t think anyone else really could bring what she brings to this role.”

We caught up with Mikkie and asked her a few questions about life in the theater and preparation for the biggest role of her career so far.

How did you get started in theater?

“For as long as I remember, I’ve sat around the stereo with my mom listening to Showtunes. We even had old vinyl records of Phantom and Les Miz and Pippin — everything. I was always a dramatic kid (a trait passed on from my mother) but it was only when I was 14 that I really decided that this was the only career for me. I took workshops and eventually did a show in Ateneo once I entered college.” 

What is it about theater that you love?

“I love everything about theater. The fact that you get to slip into someone else’s life appeals to me, I suppose. The discipline you get from being in theater is unrivaled and everyone is working so hard together to create the best possible show. No excuses.”

What was your first show with Atlantis? How did you get in?

“I’ve been auditioning for Atlantis since I was 16, though direk Bobby and direk Chari have made it very clear that they didn’t took note of me until I auditioned in 2011. It was just one of those things that went right. And to my surprise, I was called back for every show. I ended up landing a spot in the ensemble in Rock of Ages, Nine and Aladdin.”

What was the process like of getting the role of Carrie?

“I couldn’t even believe it when I found out I was being considered. It was a mix of fear, pride, excitement and a deep need to prove myself. I needed to show them that I was ready to take on this role. I just had to give it everything I had. In the end, it turned out to be enough to land the role.”

What excites you about playing Carrie?

“Oh gosh. Everything. I get to work with Bobby Garcia again, the music is amazing, I love blood. The role just gives me so much to look forward to. I’ve always been seen as this Disney princess — sunshine and rainbows and the high-pitched cutesy voice. I have this whole other side to me though and I’m so glad I get to tap into that as Carrie. I get to push myself emotionally. Plus, I get to be slapped around by Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo. There’s so much I’m looking forward to, that I can’t even wrap my head around it.”

This is your first lead role, are you excited?

“So tremendously excited. This is what I set out to do the moment I stepped out of high school. I’m so thankful for this chance. It’s really a dream come true.”

Describe the rehearsal process for a musical?

“Rehearsals are grueling and sweaty and chaotic and glorious in every way. To witness and be a part of the growth of a cast is such a blessing. You try things and they don’t work and you troubleshoot and slowly you start to see the show coming to life. Rehearsals with Atlantis are no walk in the park. Everyone has to stay on his toes. You have to be prepared. I learned that the hard way! You come out of an Atlantis production ready for anything. I really believe that.” 

What are your dream roles?

“I’d love to play Glinda in Wicked, Wednesday Addams, Maureen in Rent, Christine in Phantom, Kate Monster in Avenue Q, Kathy in The Last 5 Years, and the list goes on and on. I’m determined to stick around for a long time.”

Would you consider crossing over to mainstream showbiz should it come calling?

“For a time when theater wasn’t happening for me, I gave it a shot and nothing happened. Now that I’ve got a real foot in the door in the theater world I can honestly say if this was all I had I would be beyond content. But I’m definitely not closing myself off to anything. So if showbiz comes a-callin’ who am I to turn down the opportunity? I’d be happy to venture into it, but theater will always be my first love.”

What lessons has working in theater taught you?

“I’ve learned to pay attention to the tiniest detail and that sometimes you just have to shut up, suck it up and do it. I’ve learned that it is so much more than just me. I am part of a big picture and my job is to do that picture justice. Sometimes you just have to get out of your own head and be a team player.”

(Show buying and fund-raising opportunites for Carrie are now available by calling Atlantis Productions at 892-7078.)