Spotlight On: Michele Abbazia

Connecticut Theatre Company’s “Spotlight On…” series continues with a look into our talented cast and crew of Calendar Girls. Get to know Michele Abbazia who is portraying Cora!

Introduce Yourself to Our Audience:

I am Michele Abbazia and I have been drawn to the stage my whole life, but more so after my parents brought me to see Annie on Broadway when I was about six. I have performed in various cities and states over the years, but I am also a wife, dog mom, and an avid lover of live music.

Why did you want to be involved in this production?

I saw Tony (who I have performed with before) was directing and I read the script and related to a number of the characters in various ways.

What sort of person is going to love this show?

I think everyone is going to unless they are extremely uptight and don’t enjoy having fun.

What do you love about your character?

Her growth despite her upbringing, her love and loyalty to her friends, and her determination.

Without giving anything away, what’s your favorite line of dialogue?

“Remind me to spend the rest of my life in shadow.”

Who do you look up to (as an actor/director/etc.)?

I really don’t know. I have had the great fortune to work with so many wonderful people over the years and I think I try to take a little something from each experience. I most admire the people who are kind, respectful, and always willing to lend a hand.

What’s the last thing you do before you step out on stage / the curtain goes up?

Get the sudden urge to use the restroom – but it goes away as soon as I say my first line.

What’s going to surprise people about this show?

How many emotions will be felt and how wonderfully each person fills their role.

Calendar Girls opens March 8th and runs through March 24th at Connecticut Theatre Company. Tickets on sale now!

“It’s a show full of poignant moments – about friendship, determination and hope; about loss in many forms; about the importance of acceptance; about knowing when to let go. But it also offers plenty of humour, as the six friends and WI members decide to pose nude for a calendar” – Liverpool Daily Post