Patti Murin is no stranger to the stage and is probably most known for originating the roles of Princess Anna on Broadway in Disney’s Frozen, or the title character in Lysistrata Jones. She has also been featured on Broadway in Xanadu and various Off-Broadway and regional tours.
Recently, Patti has been working on a new musical, Breathe, written by Jodi Picoult and Timothy Allen McDonald, and will be featured in a portion of the show with her husband, Colin Donnell. You’ll be able to catch Patti Murin in the upcoming musical when it is available for streaming starting on May 14th.
Patti answers 5 questions for Broadway Direct, where she tells us about how she’s grown up around huge Broadway fans, the actress that most inspires her, and which NYC spot she’s missing right now.
1. What inspired you to become an actress?
I grew up listening to cast recordings from so many shows because my parents have always been huge Broadway fans. I lived just outside of New York City, so whenever they were able, they would take me and my siblings to see shows. I truly don’t remember a time when musicals weren’t a huge part of my life.
2. Who in your field inspires you?
Audra McDonald has always inspired me professionally, but as I’ve grown more and more in this industry, she has begun to inspire me personally as well. She’s the epitome of professionalism and grace but isn’t afraid to show the messy sides of life and humanity.
3. What will audiences be most excited about seeing in your upcoming projects?
A NEW MUSICAL!!! I’m so excited to be part of Breathe, a new musical written by Jodi Picoult and Timothy Allen McDonald, with the music and lyrics written by various sets of incredible songwriters. I was fortunate enough to perform in the “Swelling and Irritation” portion of the show with my husband, Colin Donnell, and we can not wait until it’s released to the world for streaming on May 14th.
4. What are some things you’ve always wanted to do that you’re able to spend time on now?
I picked the perfect time to get pregnant because I had my daughter, Cecily Philips Ruth Donnell, last July. And with the extreme lack of work we experienced when our industry shut down, Colin and I were able to spend time with her that we would not have normally gotten if the world was “normal.”
5. What NYC spot are you missing most now?
I really miss the magical atmosphere at Bar Centrale. And their guacamole.
You can catch Patti Murin in the upcoming new musical Breathe and follow her on Instagram @pattimurin.