I had a wonderful week in Europe, and was able to meet and work with performers in both London and Paris.

While in London, I was lucky enough to see the West End production of the new Elton John musical, Billy Elliot. It was amazing, and I think it will be a big hit on Broadway — and provide work for the "triple-threat" performers. To be in this show, you'd better spend a lot of time studying ballet!

First stop was Pineapple Studios in London, where I had the opportunity to work with eight talented performers (and was observed by two voice teachers). We had the experienced Andy Smith on the piano accompanying the singers, and their material ranged from classic musical theatre to the contemporary. One of the performers sent me this nice note afterwards:

I took some great tips away with me and went into my audition today with more confidence than I have had for a while. It was great to get a different take on things as we all know Americans do everything bigger and better! You were very encouraging and honest. I was beginning to lose faith in the British musical theatre scene and remember saying to my friends, you made me remember why I absolutely 100% love to perform

My wife and I took the EuroStar train to Paris, and we were met at the station by Albert, who quickly became a good friend. And his French and English are perfect!

The class was made up of very motivated students, eager to learn all they could about musical theatre performance technique, and expand their repertoire of Broadway songs. They each learned a song in English for me to work on with them, and I know what an effort that must have been for those who do not speak the language. The three-hour class went quickly, and I was sorry to see it end. After lunch, some of the cast members of their production of Grease took the stage, and performed Act Two for me. Dialogue in French, songs in English!

I received this kind email from the director:
Everyone has continued to give me very positive feedback on your visit and masterclass. One student said her usual feedback for the conservatoriums here is just negative, and not always useful, but found you useful and positive at the same time. You did wonders for their confidence, and there are quite a few points you mentioned that I will probably remind them of all year.

The director of the institute had set up private coaching sessions for me, which gave me a chance to work one-on-one with some French singers.

I was then interviewed for the June issue of “Comedy Tonight,” a new French music theatre magazine

Saturday evening it was back to London, where we did the sightseeing and shopping like any good tourists. We had lunch at Harrods with friend and colleague Mark Meylan, I bought some sheet music at Chappell of Bond Street, and really enjoyed the city. I hope to go back for an encore soon!