Last seen in Moulin Rouge! The Musical, of which she was an original Broadway cast member, Karli Dinardo is back on Broadway starring in the revival of Bob Fosse’s DANCIN’. Hailing from Melbourne, Australia, Dinardo was first introduced to American audiences across the country in the national touring casts of Hamilton and Flashdance, and can also now be seen on the new Hulu series Up Here.
While not on stage at the Music Box Theatre, Dinardo took some time to answer 5 questions with Broadway Direct, speaking on finding her way as an actor through dance, the legacy of Bob Fosse, and her go-to New York spot.
1. What inspired you to become an actor?
I fell in love with storytelling at a very young age through dance initially but it extended to acting and singing very quickly. How they each were different ways of communicating but yet all connected in the most beautiful way to make people feel and think. Through some jobs as a child, being on set, learning lines, analyzing characters, watching other actors doing their thing, and exploring their process, I was hooked on the magic and the craft. The more I learned and studied the more I loved it. I found it inspiring that actors are forever students, always learning, growing, and evolving.
2. Who in your field inspires you?
I am inspired by so many artists, many of who don’t allow themselves to be defined by a single box or category, they push the boundaries with their art and redefine the “way things are.” Actors like Meryl Streep, Viola Davis, Cate Blanchett, Zendaya, Hugh Jackman, and Adrienne Warren, are some examples of actors who cross into all mediums of TV, film, and theater.
3. What will audiences be most excited about seeing in DANCIN’?
I think whether you’re familiar with Bob Fosse’s work or not, seeing such an incredible celebration of dance on Broadway is so exciting! At the same time, audiences will get to learn more about Mr. Fosse’s legacy of work as we celebrate his accomplishments across stage and screen! Some you may be familiar with and some you may fall in love with.
4. If you didn’t need to sleep at night, what would you spend your time doing?
Twofold answer: I would use it to pursue creative hobbies that always get put to the side when I get busy. Playing my guitar, the piano, drawing, painting, reading, finally watching an endless list of TV shows and movies I want to see! But if I also had the power of teleportation I would most definitely go to Australia to spend the afternoons/evenings with my family who all live there, especially because of the time difference it would work perfectly!
5. What is your favorite NYC spot?
One of my go-to spots is Bryant Park. Regardless of the season, I escape on a two-show day to sit on the grass and be around some trees, usually with a coffee in hand.
You can catch Karli Dinardo in Bob Fosse’s DANCIN’, now in previews at the Music Box Theatre.
