Broadway star Jennifer Simard, known for her role in “Death Becomes Her,” is not only captivating audiences with her performance but also celebrating a personal ‘rebirth’ in life. In an exclusive interview, she opens up about the parallels between her character’s transformative journey and her own growth and resilience. Simard’s portrayal of Helen Sharp in the musical adaptation of the iconic film has been met with critical acclaim, with many speculating on a potential third Tony Award nomination for the talented actress.
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Simard describes Helen’s character development as a journey from a conservative and nerdy woman to a powerful and confident figure, mirroring her own feelings of undergoing a rebirth in her personal life. The actress, aged 54, shares that her recent experiences have led her to feel like a “phoenix rising from the ashes,” now feeling a sense of calm and satisfaction in her life. This personal growth has added depth to her portrayal of Helen on stage, creating a connection between the character’s arc and her own journey.
To mark this significant moment in her life and career, Simard collaborated with body paint makeup artist Ryan Jackson and photographer Sarah Jenkins for an exclusive and fiery photoshoot. Symbolizing her inner passion, flames were painted onto her nude body, accompanied by a vibrant wig with streaks of red, orange, and blonde. The photos, shared exclusively with PEOPLE, showcase the different facets and colours of Simard’s personality, drawing a parallel to her character Helen’s complexity.
Having been attached to “Death Becomes Her” since its early stages, Simard expresses gratitude for the opportunity to bring life to Helen Sharp. She praises the multi-dimensional nature of the character, allowing her to explore various aspects through acting, singing, and physicality. The actress believes that the extended period of time from the show’s opening in the fall has helped her refine her performance, comparing it to simmering a dish to perfection.
Simard credits the brilliant writing of Marco Pennette for providing her with a rich canvas to work with, incorporating humour and touching moments seamlessly into the narrative. She emphasises the importance of exploring the subtleties in the character’s actions and reactions, finding depth and authenticity in the moments of silence on stage. This attention to detail has enhanced her portrayal of Helen and resonated with audiences, evident in the continuous laughter and positive reception during performances.
The enduring success of “Death Becomes Her” this season can be attributed to its vibrant storytelling and theatrical experience, offering a much-needed escape for audiences post-pandemic. Simard acknowledges the significance of being part of such a classic Broadway musical, embodying the essence of a big, grand production that resonates with theatre enthusiasts. With tickets available for the show, audiences can witness Simard’s captivating performance and the magic of live theatre.
In a season filled with stellar performances and monumental productions, Jennifer Simard’s portrayal of Helen Sharp in “Death Becomes Her” shines as a testament to her talent and dedication to her craft. As she continues to bring depth and humour to the character, audiences are left mesmerised by her transformative journey on stage. Simard’s personal ‘rebirth’ mirrors the resilience and growth depicted in the show, creating a powerful connection between art and life.
Overall, Jennifer Simard’s journey in “Death Becomes Her” serves as a reminder of the transcendent power of storytelling and performance in the world of theatre. Her dedication to her craft and ability to embody complex characters like Helen Sharp showcases her versatility as a performer, leaving a lasting impact on audiences and critics alike.