Lead Actor Gina Naomi Baez of NPT's "Hunchback" Interviewed

Fairfield, CT - New Paradigm Theatre, a company well-known for its inventive productions that are presented with multi-cultural, multi-generational and multi-gendered casting, recently interviewed Gina Naomi Baez, playing the role of “Esmerelda” in NPT’s exciting production of The Hunchback of Notre Dame at Fairfield Theatre Co. Three shows August 18/19th.  (Tickets)

Though The Hunchback of Notre Dame is thought to be a male-driven show, New Paradigm Theatre Company has put an emphasis on highlighting the strengths and talents of the women of the musical--both on and off stage. With a driven female-dominated production team, and an exemplary leading lady, this spectacular group of women are redefining women’s roles in Hunchback. They're using their strengths to tell a beautiful story of love and hope. 

The women behind The Hunchback include leading lady “Esmeralda” played by Gina Naomi Baez.​ Below is a Q and A with this popular actor who is currently shooting the recurring role of Marisol in Spike Lee’s She’s Gotta Have it Season 2, coming soon to Netflix.

Q: What drew you to the role of Esmerelda and is this the first time you have played this role ?

 A: This is the first time I am playing this role. It has been an absolute dream role of mine since I was a little girl. I remember when the Disney animated movie came out. I loved Esmeralda’s spunk and I was obsessed with the music, especially Esmeralda’s  “God Help the Outcasts”.  My grandmother’s name was also Esmeralda. As a little girl , I remember thinking how cool it was that my grandmother had the same name as a Disney character. 

Q: What is your career/life goal?

A: My career goal is to be on Broadway.

Q: Since Hunchback deals with how it feels to be an "Outcast", are there any specific stories you can relate to us where you felt like an outsider?

A: I think everyone feels like an outsider at some time in their life and that’s why I think the show is so special because it truly speaks to everyone on one level or another. If I am going to be truly honest. I honestly feel a little like an outsider almost every day. I had cancer when I was a pre-teen. I feel like going through that experience changed me in a way that not many people understand and gave me a unique outlook on life. 

Q: What are you looking forward to the most about working with children Gargoyles?

A: I am looking forward to the creativity!

Q: How much research do you do when playing a role like this that is based on famous literature and then equally famous movies?

A: I am currently reading the Victor Hugo Novel and I also have been researching the Romani, their history, etc. 

Q: What does a "Day in the life" of Gina Naomi Baez look like?

A: Auditioning, Rehearsing, Shooting, Vlogging, creating content for my internet famous dog, editing, going to the gym, writing and brainstorming.

Q: What are challenges or roadblocks that you have faced and what advice would you like to give to other young actors?                   

A: Never give up and be yourself.

New Paradigm Theatre is proud of its platform to support diversity. Riding on the heels of New Paradigm Theatre’s 2016 sold-out multi-ethnic production of Oliver! Reinvented and 2017’s Peter Pan at Fairfield Theatre’s Warehouse, NPT will continue their collective impact productions with The Hunchback of Notre Dame on August 18th and 19th. NPT's goal is to bridge the gap between the arts and the local community with their performances. 

Young people of all abilities will participate side-by-side with Broadway pros to create this production.  Emmy and Oscar winner Paul Bogaev will again be the musical producer as well as playing a leading role! TV and Stage veterans Scott Bryce and Jodi Stevens will co-direct.

NPT has chosen their community “partner nonprofit” that reflects the theme of this summer’s show. This year NPT chose The Connecticut Burns Care Foundation (CBCF) from the non profits who submitted.

Artistic Director and Broadway veteran, Kristin Huffman (Milford CT) says, “New Paradigm is a theatre with a social conscience. We produce events and shows that not only entertain with Broadway pros, but that also connect directly to our community.

​TO PURCHASE TICKETS TO THE SHOW PLEASE CLICK HERE:

GINA NAOMI BAEZ (ESMERALDA) :  Gina is so excited to be playing one of her dream roles! She is currently shooting the recurring role of Marisol in Spike Lee’s She’s Gotta Have it Season 2, coming soon to Netflix. Credits include: Off-Broadway: Women on Fire (Royal Family), A Taste of Things to Come (York), Fatty Fatty No Friends (NYMF), Under Fire (NYMF), Chautauqua! (Public Theater), Monument (Prospect). Regional: Man of La Mancha, In The Heights, Little Shop of Horrors, Oliver!. TV: "Orange is the New Black”. Gina is a singer/songwriter and viral youtuber: YouTube.Com/GinaNaomiMusic. Her new venture is her “Eyes On Broadway” Vlog also on YouTube! Thanks to Scott, Jodi, Kristin, Sam, Tink and my Family! This performance is for my Mama, Esmeralda. www.ginanaomibaez.com - @GinaNaomiBaez

F
Submitted by Fairfield, CT

Become a Local Voice in Your Community!

HamletHub invites you to contribute stories, events, and more to keep your neighbors informed and connected.

Read Next