Large photo from left: Lauren Mariasoosay, Marja Harmon, Lily Soto - Hamilton National Tour - Photo: Joan Marcus 2024
Lily Soto (BA`24) Concentration in Musical Theatre
I’m currently on the Angelica National Tour of Hamilton, playing Peggy Schuyler and Maria Reynolds, and understudying Eliza Hamilton. I graduated in May 2024 and jumped into rehearsals just a few weeks later. I officially hit the road with the tour in August, and it’s been such an exciting ride.
My time in Vocal Performance was truly foundational to the performer I am now. Most important, the program taught me how to tell a story through song. I was lucky to work with some amazing mentors—Devon Meddock helped me build healthy vocal technique and explore other sides of my voice. David Alpert and Rona Siddiqui constantly challenged me with new material and styles. And Taylor Haven Holt played a huge role in deepening my connection to character and story. She also helped me with my Hamilton audition material.
Beyond the training, what made Vocal Performance so special was the people. My friends, classmates, and professors created a space that felt safe, inspiring, and full of support.
Jose Contreras (BM`21)
Jose, a graduate of the Vocal Performance Musical Theatre program, currently plays Orpheus in the Broadway National Tour of Hadestown. During his time at NYU, Jose appeared in Guys and Dolls (Joey Biltmore/Crapshoot Dancer), Applause (Bill), and Urinetown (Bobby), among others.
Haechan Timothy Lee (MM `22)
Haechan Timothy Lee, a graduate of the Vocal Performance Musical Theatre program, is currently a member of the Broadway production of Hadestown. Recently, Tim made history as the first Korean performer to play Orpheus. In addition, he appeared on the Kelly Clarkson Show to talk about his experience. Click on the video to enjoy the interview.
Matteo Adams (MM `22)
Vocal Performance alumnus, Matteo Adams, has been on the move at some of the top opera companies across the United States. Recent engagements include Don Ramiro in Portland Opera's touring production of La Cenerentola, a season as a studio artist with Central City Opera, two seasons as an apprentice artist with Sarasota Opera, and a recent engagement as an emerging artist with St. Petersburg Opera, where he covered the role of Arturo in Lucia di Lammermoor.
Arielle Jacobs (BM `07)
Vocal Performance alumna Arielle Jacobs starred as ‘Princess Jasmine’ in the smash-hit Broadway musical Disney’s Aladdin. She made her Broadway debut starring opposite Lin-Manuel Miranda, playing ‘Nina Rosario’ in the final Broadway cast of his Tony Award® and Grammy Award® winning musical In The Heights. She also starred on Broadway in Wicked, and continued to wow audiences when she embodied the role of ‘Imelda Marcos’ opposite Lea Salonga in the historic first-ever all-Filipino Broadway cast of Here Lies Love.
She originated the role of ‘Gabriella’ in Disney’s High School Musical On Stage, based on the original Disney Channel film. She also created the role of ‘Delilah’ in the Off-Broadway musical Between The Lines, based on the book by NY Times best-selling author Jodi Picoult.
Jay Armstrong Johnson
Creator, producer, and star of “I Put A Spell on You,” Johnson is currently starring as Christian in the National Tour of Moulin Rouge. Prior to this he played Britt Craig at New York City Center, Broadway: On the Town, Hands on a Hardbody, Catch Me If You Can, Hair, Phantom of the Opera. Off Broadway/New York: Scotland, PA, Darling Grenadine (Roundabout), A Chorus Line (City Center), Candide (NYCO), Sweeney Todd (NY Philharmonic), The Most Happy Fella (Encores!), Terrence McNally’s Fire and Air (CSC), Working (Prospect Theater Co, Drama Desk Award), Wild Animals You Should Know (MCC), 35mm: A Musical Exhibition. TV/Film: QUANTICO, Sex & the City 2, Law & Order: SVU. @Jay_A_Johnson
Katharine Heaton (BM `05, MM `09)
Katharine was in the recent closing company of Broadway’s longest-running show, The Phantom Of The Opera. For 8 years, Katharine swung 7 tracks including the principle role of Madame Giry. She began her Phantom journey after touring North America three times with Broadway shows Fiddler On The Roof, CATS & Evita, and in many regional shows as well.
She has performed major classical works at Symphony Hall Boston, Carnegie Hall & at her beloved Tanglewood. She can also be heard on James Taylor’s ‘One Man Band’ album from his groundbreaking tour of the same name. Katharine sang the National Anthem at both her NYU undergrad and graduate commencement ceremonies, singing on stage at Washington Square Park, Radio City Music Hall and on the 3rd base line at Yankee Stadium. She has a private studio in pop, opera and musical theatre for all ages and skill levels, and she also lectures on the business of show. Katharine has never had agent representation or connections in show business, so she is proof that, with hard work and a keen business sense, it can be done! @kittyheaton
Brynn Jacobs (BM `22)
Brynn sang as a chorister (soprano) in the New York Philharmonic Chorus for their 2022-2023 season! The first concert was titled “The Journey: David Geffen Hall Opening Gala” and also featured artists including Lin-Manuel Miranda, Bernadette Peters, Jonathan Groff, Renée Fleming, Lindsay Mendez, Brian Stokes Mitchell, and more.