Jodi Applegate: A Broadway Original
Jodi Applegate knows her Broadway. Whether it is discussing her all-time favorite artists or the current Broadway season, it is clear that the host Fox 5′s “Good Day New York” knows “stage left” from “stage right”. Jodi’s love of Broadway is a relationship that began when Jodi was a young girl seeing her first show, and continues to this day as she interviews the latest Broadway stars on “Good Day New York.”
Of course, on-camera, Jodi is likely to be found dressing as Sandy from “Grease,” or getting a wig fitted for the musical “Hairspray;” but, off-camera she is just as likely to be found at performances around the city. Jodi Applegate has a genuine love of Broadway that lasts long after her morning is over. It is a true affection that was clearly evident as I sat down to have coffee and talk Broadway with her at the Fox 5 Studios.
“There is nothing else in the human experience that appeals to the senses like musical theatre,” says Jodi. “My Dad took me to ‘Sweeny Todd’ when I was a kid, not knowing the story line,” she smiles, “I remember sitting in the back of the theatre with him and wondering what this was about. It freaked me out-the slitting of the throats. But, of course, the music is outstanding and I became a life-long fan of musical theatre.” Among Jodi’s favorite early Broadway memories was seeing Sarah Jessica Parker in ‘Annie.’ Prior to going on to major in communications and film at NYU, Jodi’s interest in musical theatre led her to develop her talents as a triple threat: singing, dancing, and acting.
Before college, Jodi performed in several musical productions, including the lead in “Damn Yankees” at the Hershey Park Hoedown in Pennsylvania. Though she has no plans to leave her current role, it is clear she remains fond of the Broadway musical. “I love musicals of the 1940′s and 50′s,” says Jodi, “‘South Pacific’, ‘Oklahoma’-Rogers and Hammerstein-I’m just amazed at how brilliant they were.”
Professionally, Jodi has had the chance to interview some of her favorite Broadway stars. Without question, her favorite Broadway interview so far has been John Schneider (‘Chicago’). “He’s charming, down to earth and super sexy. A good guy from New York with Southern country charm. He does great work for the Children’s Miracle Network. And it was great to meet Christina Applegate (‘Sweet Charity’),” adds Jodi, ” I’m always asked if we’re related, which we’re not, but I truly admire her. She really plugged away and her career is inspiring.”
As for her current favorite shows playing on Broadway, Jodi has little hesitation in answering. “I loved the spectacle of ‘Mary Poppins,’ it appeals to everyone, even my own Uncle,” laughs Jodi. It becomes clear that Jodi and Broadway are a natural fit, and one that will continue for some time to come. You can catch Jodi Applegate every weekday on Fox 5′s “Good Day New York” from 7-9 a.m. EST.
