Broadway's Laura Schutter on Corporate Entertainment

Laura Schutter has been lighting up audiences all overQ: How would you say performing in a Corporate
the world, starring on Broadway and in London'sEvent is different than a Broadway show?
West End. She currently appears in the Broadway hitA: Performing in a corporate event differs from a full
Mary Poppins. We took a few minutes to find outBroadway production in that the show often has
how her career began…many production numbers from a variety of shows -
Q: We heard that you were discovered in a veryevery number is different and exciting. One of my
dramatic way, like something out of 42ndfavorite numbers to perform is "All That Jazz" from
Street…?the musical Chicago. Most people have seen or heard
A: It was backstage during the Broadway tour ofof Chicago from either the movie or the Broadway
Thoroughly Modern Millie. I started the tour as anshow so the audience response is always amazing.
understudy to the lead and one night during theQ: Do you have any special memories of these
show the lead became ill after the start of Act II."audience responses"?
The stage manager grabbed me and sent me toA: My favorite show was a recent event in Hawaii
quickly get my wig and red dress, and within twofor Prudential (and not only since it was in Hawaii!).
minutes I was on stage singing the biggest number inThere were many songs in the production that had
the show. The funny part is that I am about a footthe audience singing along. By the end of the show
shorter than the girl who normally played the part,they were on their feet and dancing with us on the
and when I entered the stage I could sense thedance floor. It was such a thrill to see how much
audience's confusion. However, at the end of thethey enjoyed our show.
show I still received a standing ovation.