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[0:00] Martín Acuña: Hi, everyone. I am Martín Acuña, and you're listening to Backstage Talk.

[0:16] Martín Acuña: Hello, everyone. Welcome back to this first episode of Season 4 of Backstage Talk. Today's guest, and I don't know if you can hear it in my voice, but I'm quite nervous because I am really excited about today's guest. I have here with me Kristin Stokes, who is a New York-based actor and musician, previously known for her role as Annabeth Chase, a female icon for millennial, centennial musical theater, and young adult literature, because she performed this role in the national tour and the subsequent Broadway run of The Lightning Thief, the Percy Jackson musical. Kristin has a passion for new theater and original roles, and I met her, I had the fortunate chance of meeting her back in BroadwayCon during 2022, and here she is, and I'm really excited about having her. So, hi, Kristin, and welcome to Backstage Talk.

[1:21] Kristin Stokes: Thank you. Thanks for having me. So, let's hear from you. Who is Kristin Stokes?

[1:30] Kristin Stokes: Oh, my gosh. I'm a triple Scorpio, and that's all you need to know.

[1:38] Martín Acuña: I love it. I love it. I love it. So, besides that, what would be another fun fact about you?

[1:44] Kristin Stokes: Oh, my gosh. A fun fact, I mean, it's fun for me. I don't know about everybody else, but like, I'm obsessed with bulldogs. If I see a bulldog on the street, I freeze, and I just start going, they're really, I cannot get enough of bulldogs. There, whenever I see them, I'm like, oh, today's going to be a lucky day. I just, I'm obsessed with bulldogs, so that's.

[2:14] Kristin Stokes: It's the wrinkles. I love the wrinkles.

[2:17] Kristin Stokes: It's just the tonky faces, and like, you're just so wonderfully ugly and cute at the same time. They're just, they're just the best.

[2:29] Martín Acuña: I love that. Absolutely love that. So, let's go into the specifics of your craft as a performer, as a musician, as an artist. So, which would you say was your aha moment in which you said, I want to keep doing this for the rest of my life?

[2:45] Kristin Stokes: You know, I probably have had a few, depending on where I was in my life and in my career. I feel like from a very early age, because I did theater starting at like eight years old, eight, nine, I did my very first musical, and it was with my mom, actually. She was the one that just was like, always listening to musicals in the car. So, like, we knew all the words, the entire rap, like, just of every show, past and present. Like, we were just like, musicals all the time in the car. And she used to perform in high school and then in college. And when I was like, eight, nine, she was like, you know what? I'm going to do theater again, because she was, you know, had me and then my younger sister and younger brother.

And she was like, you know what? They're old enough for me to kind of get back into it. And so she was going to audition for the junior college production of Stud Turtles and Stephen Schwartz's Working, but it was like the adult theater. It was at the junior college, but it was like the adult theater company. And there's a kid part in there. And so she was like, actually, I'm really nervous. Kristen, would you want to come and audition? And I was like, Miss, like, I'm going to be in a talent show, even though I'm in kindergarten and they don't allow kindergartens in the talent show. And anyway, so she was like, you should just come with me. And we both got in the show. And I was just, I mean, I kind of credit that as my aha moment.

It was the first time I did theater and it was so much fun. I just loved every aspect about it. I loved rehearsals. I loved learning about the set. I loved tech. Even as like a nine-year-old, I was like, I'll just be in a dark theater all day. This is so wonderful. And I loved being around all these adults. Like as a nine-year-old, you're not around adults, except like your parents, basically. And I was around these adults and they were like, really fun. They were like kids. They were just like, like laughing and talking about random stuff. And it was kind of a aha moment of, okay, adults are just like kids, but they're just like, look a little older, one. And two, oh, I could just keep doing this as an adult.

That sounds like a lot of fun. I was like, yeah, I'll just do that. And I just kept doing theater because it was the best. And I had, I think, another moment when I did my first professional production. Again, I was like 14 and it was a production of Gypsy at this kind of very big equity theater house in the Bay area where I grew up, TheaterWorks, Silicon Valley. And I remember I would watch in the wings every night, the woman who played Rose do Rose's Turn. And I was just like, this is amazing. It's electric. And it was so fun to like watch her make all these choices. And I don't know, I've just, I've always been obsessed. I just think it's a really wonderful way to understand people and to understand myself. I absolutely love it. And which has been like the most recent one? Do you have it in at the top of your mind?

[6:15] Kristin Stokes: Oh, man. Why has it been inspiring me recently? Well, okay, I can think of an, I, maybe this isn't the most recent, but I, I saw Death Weft's production of Big River when it was touring a number of years ago. And that was like an amazing, that was like being in the audience, because that's the thing. A lot of people, they go to the theater and they're in the audience and they're like, that's when their aha moment is. And I've just have never, I was just mostly on stage. And so to be in the audience and have that moment now, I'm just, I'm always going to theater and new productions all the time, just because I love it. But I was watching Big River and it was the Deaf West production. And which is, you know, people who are hearing and non-hearing and sign language and it's all together.

And if you know the show, the end of act one closes with the big number, I'm waiting for my light to shine. It's kind of this like uproarious, like gospel, like, I am waiting for my light to shine. I am waiting for my light to shine. And it's just like, and like the music and it's just like so awesome and the lights and everyone's like signing and singing. And then they all gathered to the center of the stage. And throughout the production, pause, throughout the production, we were like in the fifth row watching. And the first four rows were actually all dedicated to people who were hard of hearing or deaf, because every time a song would end, they would do, you know, the wiggle hands where you clap.

And so it was interesting to have them in front of us watching this production. And I was like, wow, this is like so cool. What are they experiencing? This is amazing. So cut back. So we're in act one, everyone's singing, they all are signing and singing, they gather to the center of the stage. And then the music cuts out. And the sound completely cuts out. But they're all still lip syncing and signing. And suddenly it just hits you that you're like, this is the experience of the first four rows right now. This is what they're seeing, how they feel this music. And I was just like a mess. I was just like, oh my God, it was the most powerful thing a production has ever done. It was so beautiful. I love it. And I got goosebumps.

[8:54] Kristin Stokes: Oh, I think we got goosebumps, too!

[9:00] Martín Acuña: Oh, you three just really did a good job.

[9:02] Kristin Stokes: Yeah, yeah. That is why we love theater. For those specific moments in which you have goosebumps head to toe. I love it.

[9:14] Kristin Stokes: It's putting you in the action, you know, you're there, you're experiencing it. There's something happening in the room every night that will never happen again. And it's just so beautiful.

[9:27] Martín Acuña: Yeah, absolutely. Absolutely. So you started at a very young age. And was Broadway always like a must go on your journey? Because Broadway may not be the end of, or like, it may be the pinnacle of a lot of careers, but you've been there before. But was Broadway always like the score or the thing you wanted to do?

[9:37] Kristin Stokes: It was. And I agree with what you are saying, which is like, you know, it isn't the end-all be-all. I think the very basic story, and this was a story that I also grew up with, is like, well, if you want to be truly a successful theater performer, you do, you've done, you do Broadway, you've been on Broadway, or you do Broadway, or that's it. And that was what I knew to be a successful, you know, performer. And so yeah, that was definitely my goal. I think also, it seems to me some people are very laser with Broadway. It's Broadway or nothing. I'm going to the schools that are going to, you know, get me there the quickest, and I want the agent, and I need to do this, and I better do this, this, this, and this. And like, I'm not saying that's bad, like more power to you. That's just not my vibe, as you can probably tell. I'm a little bit more like, well, we'll see what happens, which.

[11:04] Martín Acuña: Welcome back to Backstage Talk! I’m your host, Martín Acuña, and today we are celebrating our third anniversary with a very special guest. She is one of the sweetest human beings we've ever met, Kristin Stokes! Kristin was on Broadway in "The Lightning Thief" a couple of years ago, and her journey is one that we absolutely loved.

[11:34] Kristin Stokes: Thank you so much for having me, Martín! I’m really excited to be here and celebrate with you.

[12:04] Martín Acuña: Absolutely! Your role as Annabeth Chase in "The Lightning Thief" has inspired so many young people, especially those who didn’t know much about Musical Theatre. Can you tell us a bit about what that experience was like for you?

[12:34] Kristin Stokes: It was incredible! Playing Annabeth was such a dream come true. I loved being able to connect with the audience and see how much the story resonated with them. It was amazing to meet young fans who felt empowered by the character.

[13:04] Martín Acuña: That’s so beautiful. I think representation is so important in theatre, and you definitely brought that to life. What do you think it is about Annabeth that speaks to so many people?

[13:34] Kristin Stokes: I think Annabeth is a strong, intelligent character who shows that it’s okay to be vulnerable. She’s a warrior but also has her own struggles, which makes her relatable. I love that she encourages others to embrace their strengths and weaknesses.

[14:04] Martín Acuña: Absolutely! And you’ve also worked on other projects. What else have you been up to since "The Lightning Thief"?

[14:34] Kristin Stokes: I’ve been working on a few different projects, including some workshops and readings. I’m also focusing on my music and trying to create more content that reflects my journey and experiences.

[15:04] Martín Acuña: That sounds amazing! I can’t wait to see what you come up with. How has your experience in the industry shaped your perspective on creating art?

[15:34] Kristin Stokes: It’s definitely been a journey. I’ve learned that it’s important to stay true to yourself and your voice. The industry can be tough, but finding your passion and sharing it with others is what makes it all worth it.

[15:58] Martín Acuña: Well said! And speaking of passion, I know you have a strong connection to your fans. How do you engage with them, especially on social media?

[16:04] Kristin Stokes: I love connecting with my fans through social media! I try to share snippets of my life, behind-the-scenes moments, and also respond to messages and comments. It’s important to me to create a community where everyone feels included.

[16:34] Martín Acuña: That’s fantastic! It’s great to see artists like you who genuinely care about their audience. What advice would you give to young performers who look up to you?

[17:04] Kristin Stokes: I would say to keep pursuing your dreams and don’t be afraid to take risks. It’s okay to fail; it’s part of the journey. Surround yourself with supportive people and always believe in yourself.

[17:34] Martín Acuña: Such great advice! Thank you for sharing that. As we celebrate this anniversary, what does this milestone mean to you personally?

[18:04] Kristin Stokes: It means a lot to me! It’s a reminder of how far I’ve come and the amazing people I’ve met along the way. I’m grateful for every opportunity and look forward to what’s next.

[18:34] Martín Acuña: We’re grateful to have you here today. Before we wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with our listeners?

[19:04] Kristin Stokes: Just a big thank you to everyone for their support! I’m excited for what’s to come, and I hope to inspire others to chase their dreams.

[19:34] Martín Acuña: Thank you so much, Kristin! It’s been a pleasure having you on the show.

[20:04] Kristin Stokes: Thank you for having me, Martín!

[20:34] Martín Acuña: And to our listeners, thank you for joining us on this special episode. Don’t forget to follow Kristin on Instagram to see what she’s been working on.

[21:04] Kristin Stokes: Yes, please do! I’d love to connect with you all.

[21:34] Martín Acuña: Until next time, keep dreaming big and supporting the arts!

[22:09] Martín Acuña: And we were just suddenly like, oh, this is real and this is important, and this isn't about, oh, Cyclops and monsters. I'm like, this is real stuff that's happening in the world. And we were just so moved, and I think there was just a wave of searing seriousness that came over us during that song. And then afterwards, they all came on stage with us, and we just kind of got to celebrate them, and we got to sing with them and applaud them. And, you know, they are really heroes, and it was just a really beautiful, beautiful experience to get to celebrate them and an honor again to be on stage with those kids. Thank you for sharing that experience. It touches a lot of hearts, so thank you so much for that.

[25:01] Kristin Stokes: We have to start like a little bit of wrapping up, but I'm enjoying this so much, and I have a lot of questions, but no, I love it. I love it. So what did you take home after closing this show from Annabeth Chase? Because it's an iconic character that is strong, female, and fearless.

[25:29] Kristin Stokes: Yes, I mean, all those things, like you just said. I mean, besides this choker and my shoes, gosh, I mean, that's exactly what I took home. I think my journey with Annabeth, you know, something really clicked, and it took a while. It took all the years I played her for it to click, but I kept trying to soften her when I was first learning how to play her and be in her shoes. I was like, I wanted her to be likable. I didn't want her to be judged. I was protective over that. I was like, well, yeah, she's right, but I don't want to make her so sharp and right, and it was messing it up. It was that is not how Annabeth is; that's how I have been. That's how I have been conditioned to be, that it's not okay to, especially as a female, to be outspoken and be sure of yourself and to be confidently smart and feel like, no, actually, I don't need to soften myself to make myself more palatable for you.

And Annabeth was exactly all those things. I mean, she has lived in this world at camp, not going home since she was seven years old, and she has always been treated as an equal. She's never had to be conditioned to soften herself to be anything other than what she is, then a fighter and someone who, you know, really upholds wisdom, obviously, and her skills. And she just has her eye on the prize, and I was like, you know what? I need to do some work and let go of that and just lean in. And oh my God, it just freed me so much as a person. Like, I think most people who are close to me will tell you after that experience, and then, golly, going into the pandemic, you know, I feel that I am a new person, or at least I'm not as inhibited and stifled in the ways that I was putting upon myself, and that is all thanks to Annabeth.

I am even more fearless and strong and opinionated, and, you know, I feel okay to take up space. And, you know, something else that I learned is she can push boundaries, but that's because she trusts that you can take the weight of who she is because that's a way of how, like, that's how people share themselves. If you are constantly just trying to, you know, make yourself more palatable or be pleasing to someone else, they're never actually gonna know you. So it was a very freeing experience, and, you know, she gave me a lot. She gave me a lot of strength. So, and she continues to do, and me, because my grand plan is one of those songs that I always play when I'm down, and it's like, I needed this strength.

[29:00] Martín Acuña: Okay, second to last question. What's the risk you've taken in your overall career and journey as an artist that has paid off?

[29:14] Kristin Stokes: Hmm, I mean, like, I don't want to be redundant, but the biggest payoff has been "The Lightning Thief." And, you know, there were some cast mates that let it go, not because they didn't love the piece, but because they were like, I don't know how this is gonna further my career, which is a very valid reason to not continue with the piece. You're like, I've done it before, I'm gonna do something else. And it started off, as I said, not aiming for Broadway; it was aiming for free off-Broadway one-hour version for kids and families. And so very easy to be like, you know, and I also know that for some of these actors, their agents were like, you don't want to be associated with kids or young adult theater; you want to be associated with something else.

You got, it's time for you to kind of step into your own; you should be saying no to these roles and did it. And for myself, I was like, listen, I know it takes years to make a show, and you never really know where it's gonna go. And so even shows that you think are gonna be like, you do one workshop and it's in Broadway, like, you act, you never know. And so all you can really do, or all I have really done, is just listen to my heart and be like, is this fun? Is this exciting? Do I feel fulfilled? Do I want to dig in deeper? And then the answer is yes, and then I think it will always pay off, regardless of if that is Broadway or just pay off in, you know, learning more about yourself and getting to connect with other people and connect with the really beautiful story. So, kind of "The Lightning Thief," to be honest.

[31:19] Martín Acuña: Love it, love it. So last question. Yes, what are your top five favorite musical theater shows?

[31:31] Kristin Stokes: Oh Lord, okay. I mean, "Hadestown," yes, so incredible. "Sweeney Todd" coming to Broadway soon, I'm so excited for that. I love that show. I mean, I'm just like a Stephen Sondheim person. I love all Stephen Sondheim, so not to be redundant, but I also love "Sending the Perfect Torch." I think that's a great, great, great, great show. And oh my God, there's so many, there's so many. "Cabaret," "Cabaret," and I don't know, I'm gonna say "Color Purple" because I just like sobbed the entire time. It was so beautiful. I love it. I love it.

[32:39] Martín Acuña: Kristin, thank you so much for your time, for your thoughts, for your voice. I have absolutely loved this. Thank you for being here in Backstage Talk.

[32:48] Kristin Stokes: Oh my gosh, thank you so much for having me. It was so wonderful to talk with you.

[32:51] Martín Acuña: Thanks everyone for listening to this new episode of Backstage Talk. Remember to follow us on Facebook and Instagram at Backstage Talk podcast.