Robyn Hurder is no stranger to the Broadway stage, with previous credits in Chicago, Nice Work If You Can Get It, Grease, The Wedding Singer, and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. More recently, the triple threat has been playing the role of Nini in Moulin Rouge! The Musical, impressively dancing her way through the glamorous set at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre.
Robyn answered five questions for Broadway Direct, where she tells us about the actresses that inspire her, what she’s been enjoying during quarantine, and what audiences will be most excited about seeing in Moulin Rouge.
1. What inspired you to become an actress?
I saw Cats when I was 6 years old and immediately wanted to begin dance class, but when I was 11, I took my first trip to New York City and saw the revival of Damn Yankees. I saw Bebe Neuwirth come out of the ground in a chaise lounge in a pink bustier, garter belts, and platinum hair. I turned to my mom and said, “Mommy, that’s what I want to do when I grow up.”
2. Who in your field inspires you?
Actresses who give me a masterclass in instinct. Charlotte d’Amboise, Patti LuPone, Donna Murphy. They are incapable of being disingenuous. Any role they step into, you believe they actually ARE that character. They suck you into this trance and you are unable to look away or not listen to every single word or noise that comes out of their mouth. It’s fascinating and so healthy to watch. I tremble when I watch them in performance because they are that inspiring. That’s what I strive for every single time I step onstage.
3. What will audiences be most excited about seeing in Moulin Rouge! The Musical?
Everything. This show has everything. It has elements in it that have never been seen on a Broadway stage. It’s not just about the gorgeous performances, pop music, choreography… it’s the way everything is married together. It’s the transitions. It’s the experience. It has you leaving the theater in this euphoric, sparkly haze wondering what just happened to your life.
4. What are some things you’ve always wanted to do that you’re able to spend time on now?
Create things I’ve always wanted to create but never had the time or energy. Make up dances. Sing with my husband. Hiking – we live in hiking heaven up here in Woodbury, NY! Spend more time with my son. Discover and dive more into the culinary world. I love to cook so much but never have the time or energy to really put my heart and soul into it! I’m just so grateful for this time.
https://www.instagram.com/p/B9qQebLJiGr/
5. What NYC spot are you missing most now?
My theater. The Al Hirschfeld. I miss everything and everyone in it. It’s magical in there. ♥️
You can catch Robyn Hurder in Moulin Rouge! The Musical at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre, and follow her on Instagram @robynhurder.