Michelle Williams takes on the captivating role of Viola Van Horn in the musical Death Becomes Her, showcasing her immense talent and versatility. In an exclusive interview with rolling out, Williams delves into how her extensive background in music and performance has shaped her approach to this character. Known for her powerful voice and dynamic stage presence, Williams brings a unique flavor to the role, seamlessly blending her musical prowess with her acting skills. In the interview, she discusses her preparation process, the influence of her musical career, and the personal connections she finds within the production’s themes of vanity and morality.
How did you prepare for the role of Viola Van Horn?
I watched the movie a few times to gather some information. Watching it as someone who has to bring the role to life caused me to watch it in a different way. I jumped into rehearsals and developed what part of my personality fits this role, and not only what part of my personality fits the role but what part of my personality fits the entire production that I can bring into this show every night.
How has your music career influenced your performance in your roles?
I’m able to pick up on things that maybe the music director wants really quickly. They allow me to add a bit of my flavor because with Broadway productions, depending on the genre of the production, you sometimes have to stick to what is written in the score. But every now and then, they let me put a little seasoning on it. I think over the 20 years — probably 30-plus years — of performing just as a little girl up till now, just the confidence that being in music has given me to be able to show up to rehearsals and know my part.
This production deals with themes of vanity, morality, and rivalry. What personal meanings or connections have you found in this story?
Getting things done to your skin and face is more socially acceptable. You see it on social media every day. Someone’s getting their face done, someone’s talking about Botox, someone’s talking about their brows, or the piece of surgery that they got to lift their glutes or their breasts or their nose. People care about what they look like, looking younger, and if that affects their value to society.
What can the audience expect when they come to see Death Becomes Her?
I tell people, if you have never gone to a Broadway production, let this be the first one. Those who are used to Broadway productions, you are going to laugh your tails off. Everybody’s going to laugh. The jokes hit every time. Paul Caswell, a Black man from South Carolina, killed the costume design. I’m glad to be part of a show that someone felt worth investing in to make sure that nothing goes untouched. No corners were cut.
It’s Mental Health Awareness Month. What are you doing to take care of yourself during these tough rehearsals?
I’m pacing myself, saying no as needed. I think everybody can learn that you have a right to say, “Hey, no. I want to balance this out a bit. I need to pace myself.” I go silent when possible. I don’t talk. I go to my dressing room; I listen to soothing music, I do stretching routines, and just pure solitude. I come home, and I go to bed. I don’t go out at night because this takes a lot out of me right now, especially because we’re rehearsing and doing shows at night.
Death Becomes Her plays at the Cadillac Palace Theater in downtown Chicago from April 30 to June 2.
