You might know Caitlin Houlahan from when she stepped into the role of Dawn in the long-running musical Waitress, the first time in 2016 for her Broadway debut, and the last to close out the show on Broadway in January of 2019. Now, she’s in a completely new role of Kate Draper in the new Bob Dylan musical, Girl From the North Country, where she plays the love interest of Gene Laine, played by Colton Ryan.
Caitlin answered five questions for Broadway Direct, where she tells us about her inspirations, being quarantined and spending time with family, as well as her favorite spot she’s been missing in NYC.
1. What inspired you to become an actress?
I had grown up around music, but not really caring to be in the spotlight. I originally went to Baldwin Wallace University for Music Therapy. At the time I hadn’t really considered becoming a performer and even if I had, I’d talked myself out of it pretty quickly. While studying there, I would watch the MT masterclasses and shows. It was the students in the Music Theatre program that inspired me and gave me the fire in my heart to want to do the same. So I auditioned for the program, got in, and here I am now!
2. Who in your field inspires you?
There are so many people in this field who constantly inspire me in a multitude of ways; their work ethic, how they treat coworkers, how they handle stress, and their abilities…I like to observe this in the people I work with so I can better myself. My fellow castmates in both Waitress and Girl From the North Country inspire me every day. In addition, I have always admired Celia Keenan-Bolger from afar and watching her is magical.
3. What will audiences be most excited about seeing Girl From the North Country?
Audiences are going to love seeing how Bob Dylan’s music and a Conor McPherson play blend together incredibly. They will also be delighted to watch each incredible performer go through their story over the course of the show. I could name specific performances but then I would just be reciting the entire cast list. You’re in for a stunning, thought-provoking night and you will leave with hope in your heart.
4. What are some things that you’ve always wanted to do that you’re able to spend more time on now?
After being quarantined in New York, my fiancé and I drove to my parents’ house in Ohio. Here I’ve been living out my dream: spending all sunny days in the backyard, taking extra long bike rides, building a garden, playing frisbee with our dog, and having evening fires on the patio.
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It’s small things like being able to sit down for dinner at a reasonable hour or playing cards or a board game after dinner that make it special — I don’t often get the opportunity to spend so much time with my family.
5. What NYC spot are you missing most now?
It’s a toss-up between two. Firstly, I miss the dressing room that my dressing-roommate, Kimber Elayne Sprawl, and I so carefully created together. We spent much time perfecting the decor and making it comfortable for visitors, and I miss having our time together in the comfort of our room. Secondly, I miss going to my favorite restaurant in Eataly and their Cacio e Pepe!
You can catch Caitlin Houlahan in Girl From the North Country at Broadway’s Belasco Theatre, and follow her on Instagram @caithoula.
Original photo by Emilio Madrid-Kuser.