5/6/2022
Broadway Las Vegas / Performances and Artists
Broadway Musical “The Prom” Runs August 2 to 7 at The Smith Center
Performing in smash Broadway musical “The Prom,” Kalyn West genuinely feels she’s making a difference.
“We know that we are telling a really important story, and what we do directly affects people’s lives for the better,” says West, who performed in the original Broadway show, and now costars as Alyssa Greene in the musical’s national tour. “That’s really special.”
The joyful production offers an inspiring message of inclusivity and empowerment, with its story of four down-on-their-luck Broadway stars who shake up a small Indiana town to help a teenager forbidden from attending the prom with her girlfriend.
“I’m really proud to be part of this show again, and to continue to spread that representation,” West says.
And just as important as its themes, she adds – the show also takes audiences on a really fun ride.
“There’s so much energy and love on stage from everyone, I’ve never experienced anything like it,” West says.
Mixing a Powerful Message with Pure Fun
West lauds how “The Prom” makes its sensitive subject matter approachable for everyone, with delightful fun and flair.
The show’s narcissistic-but-well-meaning Broadway celebrities deliver nonstop laughs. And by serving up large-scale musical numbers that pay homage to the sparkling Broadway tradition, the show works hard to lift people’s spirits.
“It’s all very vibrant. It transports you into this whole world,” West says. “You have the realism of the kids and the celebrities, but especially when we get to the prom, it’s really magical. The music and costumes both do that.”
Showing That Everyone Belongs
This jubilant atmosphere on stage also helps audiences to empathize and support the characters in their personal journeys, West says.
This includes her character, Alyssa Greene, a compassionate and intelligent high school student struggling to confront her mother about her girlfriend.
“She comes from a very strict, religious household, and she’s very much at war with wanting to own who she is, but not wanting to let down her family,” West says.
By telling these characters’ stories on stage, she adds, she hopes all audience members can embrace acceptance.
“My favorite part of being in this show is just the voice it gives to so many young kids who finally get to see themselves reflected on stage,” West says.
Her Own Personal Journey
Just like the characters in “The Prom,” West knows about overcoming obstacles.
After graduating from Weber State University with a degree in musical theater, she moved to New York City without a job or apartment to pursue her dreams of the stage.
Initially crashing on a friend’s couch, she spent five years auditioning for roles while working at a restaurant and fitness studio. She eventually landed an agent, who found her a part in a developing show called “The Prom” – leading to her first Broadway role.
West feels elated to costar in a musical that brings people such joy.
“All of us are so grateful to be heard and to be telling this story,” she says. “It’s not very often you get to do a show that speaks to your heart so much.”
SEE THE SHOW
“The Prom” runs August 2 to 7 at The Smith Center – CLICK HERE for ticket information.