Brian Lundy caught up with Out in Jersey, a LGBTQ+ New Jersey publication, talking about playing Ogie on the current US tour.

How long have you been portraying Ogie?

I’ve been playing Ogie since we opened the tour, pre-pandemic in October of 2019.

How are you personally and Ogie the same, and how are you different?

Ogie and I are both pretty optimistic and idealistic. I can’t say I’d ever tell someone, “I love you means you’re never ever ever getting rid of me,” after a first date, but I definitely understand the sentiment.

How does it feel to be part of this production?

It feels so special to be able to share this story of female empowerment and community on tour. It’s such an important story to be telling, and I’m proud that I get to play a piece in it.

At what age did you start performing?

I’ve been in singing and dance classes since I was a kid, but my first musical was in the 6th grade when I played Kenickie in Grease.

What part of Brooklyn did you grow up in? What was it like growing up there and being a gay theatre kid, or did all that come later?

I grew up in Marine Park in south Brooklyn! Theater has always been a welcome place for me to express myself and be entirely authentic without judgment, and that’s why it’s such a comfortable home.

What brings your competitive side out?

Board games!

What do you find most challenging about this role?

The stamina it takes to play Ogie is definitely a challenge but also a rewarding one because even on the tough days, Ogie has a way of sparking joy in Brian.

What is your all-time favourite Broadway show, and why?

My favorite Broadway show is A Chorus Line because of the storytelling of the performers’ life and, of course, the choreography and music!

What is your dream role?

My dream role is Bobby in Company, Elder McKinley in Book of Mormon, or really any Sondheim!

What is your favorite song in Waitress, and why?

My favorite song to perform in Waitress is the Finale because I love getting to share the stage with the whole cast, and it’s such a wonderful full-circle moment for the audience to see how far Jenna has come throughout the show.