Leg warmers are back as ASU Gammage brings another hit Broadway musical to the stage.
A simple story about a small-town girl with big dreams to become a dancer, “Flashdance” is celebrating its 30-year anniversary since the release of the movie. The musical’s dance captain, Brandt Martinez, is a Peoria native and a former student of the Spisak Dance Academy and Tempe Dance Academy.
After graduating high school, Martinez accepted a job as a performer on a cruise ship. He recently ended a European tour with Rasta Thomas’ Bad Boys of Dance in the show “Rock the Ballet.”
The State Press: What sparked your interest for Broadway and performing?
Brandt Martinez: My older sister was a dancer when I was 8, two years before I started. I remember going to her national dance competition and sat in the front row for seven days straight. I asked my mom for ballet class, and I’ve been dancing ever since. "Flashdance" fulfills that Broadway credit.
SP: What’s the biggest difference in performing on cruise ships versus a national tour?
BM: Performing on cruise ships is more for saving money and getting experience; I probably wouldn’t do it again. It’s fun to travel, but you’re stuck on the ship for nine months. I love going to the cities and exploring them, but on a cruise ship, you have to be back on board each night, and it’s pretty limited.
SP: What would you say is your biggest personal accomplishment of your career so far?
BM: My favorite moment being on the stage professionally was during a “Save the Rain” performance with Elton John, Bruce Springsteen and Lady Gaga. (Bruce) was on one arm and (Elton) was on the other while we were singing to Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’.” There is even a YouTube video of it. We performed at Carnegie Hall, and there was lots of energy from the house!
SP: How do you think audiences will react to such a high-energy show like "Flashdance?"
BM: They are going to love it! It’s a "little engine that could" type of story, about a girl having hope. Audiences will fall in love with the lead actress (Jillian Mueller) and are on her side the whole time. It’s the leg warmers and a water show with amazing dancers.
SP: What is up next for you after the tour? Are you interested in touring with more Broadway shows?
BM: The "Flashdance" tour goes until June, but I’m leaving for shoulder surgery in May. My next goal is to be cast in the upcoming Broadway production, “Aladdin” for next spring. I’m going to the final callback and could possibly be cast as a dance double.
"Flashdance" will play at ASU Gammage from April 30 to May 5. Purchase tickets online at asugammage.com.
Reach the reporter at mkthomp5@asu.edu or follow her on Twitter at @MariaKThompson
