CLEVELAND NATIVE STARS IN BIG RIVER

Clevelander Michael McElroy is making a triumphant return to Northeast Ohio after a successful run on Broadway playing Jim in the critically acclaimed BIG RIVER, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. McElroy grew up in Shaker Heights, Ohio and graduated from Shaker Heights High School. His family plays a prominent role within the local community – his Grandmother worked closely with Congressman Louis Stokes for years and his Grandfather started Harvest Missionary Baptist Church in Cleveland. McElroy credits his church upbringing to his founding and continued direction of “Broadway Inspirational Voices” (BIV), a multi-racial gospel choir comprised of Broadway performers. This Tony Award® nominated actor agreed to answer some questions about the show and coming back to his hometown.

Q: You’re a Cleveland native. How do you feel about coming back to perform in this show? A: I couldn’t be happier! This is the first time I have been back to Cleveland to perform in a show. I used to go downtown all the time to see shows at Playhouse Square and it’s great to be in one! Q: The music in this show is very powerful and very moving, especially with the incorporation of American Sign Language (ASL). What was it like for you to learn sign language and what impact do you think it has on the music?

A: It was incredible, terrifying, and overwhelming at the same time. It is an incredible, beautiful language and I wanted to do it well. As far as what it does for the music, I believe it adds depth, humor and emotion to the show. It’s amazing how seamlessly the sign language blends in with the music!

Q: How was it to work with deaf and hard of hearing actors?

A: It has been terrific. It has opened up both of our worlds to be able to communicate with each other and with the audience. Communication is what theater is all about. I also learned that in spite of any obstacle, people can come together to be friends.

Q: For you, what has been the most rewarding part about participating in the show?

A: Everything! It has changed my life career-wise and personally. It was an incredible honor to be nominated for a Tony Award®. Playing the character of Jim brought me to depths as an actor and a human being that I’ve never been to before.

Q: What would you like the audience to know about the show?

A: I really want an audience to see this show. They are getting a traditional musical with so much more! The addition of sign language makes it all the more impressive. It is a great family show on top of everything else.