This spring, Mischief is back on Broadway with their production of Peter Pan Goes Wrong, which also marks Nancy Zamit’s return to Broadway. A co-founder of Mischief herself, the team behind Peter Pan Goes Wrong, Zamit was first seen on Broadway in 2017 originating the role of Annie in the smash-hit The Play That Goes Wrong, Mischief’s previous Broadway outing.
Now starring on stage over at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre, Zamit took some time to answer 5 questions with Broadway Direct, saying how she knew from a young age she wasn’t destined for an office job, telling audiences what to expect from the comedic spectacle that is Peter Pan Goes Wrong, and sharing a few of her favorite New York City haunts.
1. What inspired you to become an actor?
I have a very creative family. My mother is a sculptor and my father is a musician. I was never destined to have an office job. I started off dancing as a kid and soon discovered you could add words! I just thought that felt utterly brilliant.
2. Who in your field inspires you?
Young people inspire me. Up-and-coming actors inspire me. The talent of new generations of actors is always so fresh and amazing I feel like they are the people I have to keep up with. There is no ladder in this industry so to keep your game up I always find myself looking forward not back.
3. What will audiences be most excited about seeing in Peter Pan Goes Wrong?
It is a huge show. Almost every element of it takes loads of different departments working together to create a physical comedic spectacle. This show is more than a “funny play”, I’m looking forward to people seeing comedic actors at the top of their game being flown around a revolving set whilst being set on fire! It’s hilarious.
4. If you didn’t need to sleep at night, what would you spend your time doing?
I’m a huge fan of smaller places. A great night for me is in Smith Street, Brooklyn. Maybe a double whammy of two places, Zombie Hut and Wings. Sitting outside with a massive fishbowl of any very strong drink in Zombie Hut then heading next door to Wings if you need food. Superb. Also any jazz bar. I’m a huge fan of live jazz and there is so much in NYC, you guys are so spoiled with amazing musicians. Cellar Dog is a great casual spot to shoot pool and listen to jazz, good for people experiencing live jazz for the first time.
5. What is your favorite NYC spot?
Mile End Deli in Brooklyn. It’s an incredible Jewish comfort food place that has the best poutine in the world. Also going to watch the Brooklyn Cyclones at Coney Island. Watching baseball whilst the sun goes down at the beach surrounded by rollercoasters is a trip. I love it so much.
You can catch Nancy Zamit in Peter Pan Goes Wrong at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre, running through July 9, 2023.