Q&A: Westchester Native [Anthony Lee Medina] Lands Broadway Debut in ‘Hamilton’ (Westchester Magazine):
[…] You’re taking on the role in March?
I have a tentative date of March 7, but that will change depending on a lot of things that I don’t know yet. I’m contracted for a year.
What are your thoughts and expectations about the roles you are being cast for?
I have been auditioning for this role for a really long time. I started auditioning when it was off-Broadway about two years ago. I didn’t really know what it was at first — I was auditioning for what was at the time The Hamilton Mixtape, which I just thought was a hip hop show.
As far as expectations go, I just want to do my job to the best of my ability and make sure everyone walks out with thoughts on what this experience was, something that makes you think. I want you to have an opinion, no matter whether it be a bad opinion or a good opinion. That’s all I strive for.
What went through your head when you heard about getting the role?
I freaked out. I dropped my phone. My phone cracked. I was like a crazy person, jumping up and down. I didn’t know what to say or what questions I should’ve asked at that point. I’m just like screaming. It was amazing. It’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me, ever.
Is there anything you’re excited to see behind the scenes?
I first saw the show with the idea that, here was a part for me, but then as soon as it started — I’m not going to lie — I started crying. Then three hours later the show was ending and I was still crying.
I don’t remember what I saw or what any of it was. But I’ll see it a lot in February; I’ll see it every night. I have no idea what to expect.
How are you going to turn down everyone asking for tickets?
Look, if I could get a ticket for every single person I’ve ever met in my life, I would. I think people will understand. It’s friends and family first, because I’ve had a really great support system for a very long time and they deserve to see the fruits of their labor.
Any words of encouragement for aspiring artists?
Be as persistent as you possibly can, and don’t compare yourself to anyone. There’s so many times when I’ve been in finals for something or not even gotten the audition, and it sucks. The business you are working towards is a continuous series of “nos.” And being told no everyday is really hard on your soul. If you keep pushing forward, it pays off. I’m living proof.
I was on tour with Spring Awakening, and one by one everyone I worked with went on to better roles. I had to remind myself that we are all completely different people with different journeys, and I didn’t know what that meant for me. But now, I’m here doing what I’m about to do, and it’s the biggest thing ever. If I continued to compare myself to them I would never be where I am. I’m so happy I didn’t.
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