Juan Pablo Di Pace – The Wonderful Winter of Oz

By starrymag | December 4, 2018

By: Sammi Turano

 

 

Q) Can you tell us a little bit about the show and your character?

A) The show is a Panto, which is an idea the Lythgoes brought here from England. It brings interactive theatre to the kids and shows shows and movies (in this case Wizard of Oz as “Wonderful Winter of Oz”) in a contemporary manner.

The cowardly Lion is an amazing character. He has no courage and meets three people who he initially scares away. However, he soon realizes he is just socially awkward and shy, leading him to see the Wizard to get some courage.

The show allows the audience to see him be accepted with no question, which is a beautiful message to show others to stick together despite their differences.

 

Q) What drew you to “The Wonderful Winter of Oz?”

A) I got invited to do Wonderful Winter of Oz thanks to Michael Orland. We had worked on a charity event together in October and he recommended me to the Lythgoes.   It was cool to go from one project (“Dancing With The Stars”) to the show because it keeps me busy.

 

Q) You’re playing the Cowardly Lion. How does your character compare to the original Wizard of Oz version?

A) My version of the Lion has a more Latin flavor and also speaks Spanish. I am bringing my own thing to the character, giving him a more Puss in Boots meets Cowardly Lion feel. He is also a bit like Michael Jackson, a show off, but also has a shy side.

 

Q) Were you familiar with any of your costars before working with them on the production?

A) This is my first time working with them, but so far it has been a blast! Marissa Jaret Winokur is Broadway royalty and I was a huge fan of Mackenzie Ziegler (and her sister Maddie) from both “Dance Moms” and “DWTS: Juniors.”  Everyone is new to work with, but I love everyone so far!

 

Q) You are working with Marissa Jaret Winokur and Mackenzie Ziegler, both of whom were on “Dancing With the Stars” and “Dancing With the Stars: Juniors,” respectively. Did you guys compare notes about your experience on the show?

A) We have not discussed that yet since we have only had one day of rehearsals, but I know we will.

 

Q) What’s the rehearsal process for the show like?

A) We have only had one day of rehearsals so far, but they are going great. Right now, we are experimenting with different things to see what works best. Yesterday I was jumping around, but that might change in the next rehearsal. We will see.

 

Q) Talk about working with NappyTabs on the choreography.

A) I haven’t worked with them yet. I only had one day of rehearsals so far.

 

Q) Wilshire the L.A.F.D. Fire Dog will be making a guest appearance! Are you nervous to work with a live animal?

A) Not at all, I love dogs. However, they do steal scenes and people will want to be looking at them. I am excited to work with him though, as well as Kermit the Frog who plays the Wizard.

 

Q) Do you think you know what your favorite song to perform is going to be?

A) I have two songs I’ll be performing as solos, “Karma Chameleon” and “Hold the Line.” I am excited for those, as well as others that we will be doing as a group. All the songs are more modern ones from the radio.

 

Q) What message do you hope people take away from this show?

I hope they have a sense of wonder and inspiration. I saw The Neverending Story as a child and loved it. It opened my mind up and allowed me to feel this way and let me escape into my imagination. I hope they get to have that same feeling.

 

Q) We love you on “Fuller House!” Can you tease a little bit about what is in store for Season 4?

A) Fans can look forward to seeing a new side of Fernando. He will have a touching scene with Ramona (Soni Bringas) this season, where he realizes she is growing up and might soon be leaving home. He freaks out in a cute, internal way that shows a different side of him.

We also get to meet his mom, who is all you will want and more when it comes to his mom. There will be a comedy of errors, especially when it comes to Kimmy’s (Andrea Barber) pregnancy.

In addition, you can look forward to seeing the show tackle new, different issues. I’m excited to see the reaction!

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and the work you do?

A) Thank you and check out my single “Just A Feeling!”

 

 

LIMITED ENGAGEMENT  – 18 PERFORMANCES ONLY!

AT THE PASADENA CIVIC AUDITORIUM

DECEMBER 15 – 30, 2018

 

Tickets and Information :                    www.thepasadenacivic.com