Time in Greater OC: My love affair with Orange County started around 8 or 9 years ago when I first stepped onto the stage for Buddy, The Buddy Holly Story at The Laguna Playhouse. Since then, I've had the privilege of returning many times. And have done a couple of National Tours of Buddy, The Buddy Holly Story, most recently, just last year. It's been an incredible ride, and Orange County has become an artistic home for me.

Neighborhood: I'm right on the edge of Seal Beach in Long Beach, soaking up the coastal vibes and artistic energy.

Hometown: Columbus, Ohio – Go Buckeyes! That's where it all began, and I carry that Buckeye spirit with me wherever I go.

What are you currently working on?

Right now, I'm diving headfirst into the role of Mother in an upcoming production of A Christmas Story in New Jersey! It's a fantastic opportunity, and I'm thrilled to be a part of it. Just before this, I had the absolute pleasure of portraying Madame in Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella with the Lythgoe Family Productions right here in Orange County. And, oh, let's not forget the incredible experience I had earlier this year in Once at The Laguna Playhouse where I not only got to sing and play piano but also play accordion right here in Orange County as well.

What's been inspiring you recently?

Inspiration is all around us, and I make it a point to soak it all in. Lately, I've been finding a lot of creative fuel in music. I love to listen to music and then sit down at my piano and play and sing it. There's just something about the rhythm and melodies that ignite my imagination and get me into an artistic groove.

Tell us a story from your childhood that illuminates who you are as an artist.

Picture this: Sunday family dinners at my grandparents' house. My sister and I, fueled by youthful exuberance and a dash of creativity, would put on these grand productions after dinner. We'd transform into little performers, pulling off plays and shows for our aunts and uncles. And the best part? We made them pay to witness our theatrical prowess! Looking back, I'm grateful for the enthusiastic support they showered upon us. It was those early moments of sharing stories and characters that planted the seeds of my passion for the stage.

What kind of theatre excites you?

Live theatre, without a doubt! There's an unparalleled magic in being in the room where it all unfolds. The energy, the connection between the audience and performers, it's an experience that never fails to excite and captivate me.

Who are or were your theatrical heroes?

Narrowing down my theatrical heroes is like trying to pick a favorite star in the sky – impossible! A few current top picks would have to be Kelli O'Hara, Kristen Chenoweth, Idina Menzel, Bernadette Peters, Julie Andrews, and Dolly Parton, of course.

What's the craziest thing you have ever needed to do for theatre?

The theatre world is full of wonderfully crazy moments, but most recently I would say navigating the world of live theatre during the pandemic. I have many, many stories and honestly, they all turned out great in the end and were a bright light during a dreary time.

Outside of a theatre, what's your favorite hot spot in Orange County?

Disneyland is a given – who doesn't love the magic of Disney? But I also have a soft spot for discovering new hiking trails and, of course, any day spent at the beach is a perfect day in my book! I especially love spending time in Seal Beach, it's one of the spots where I love to sit down and write.

What advice do you have for theatre artists just starting out in Orange County?

To all the aspiring theatre artists out there, I say this: keep pushing forward. Why not you? Don't let doubt hold you back. Embrace the journey, have fun along the way, and never underestimate the power of your passion and talent. You've got this!

Go ahead, promote your things...

@maryanndipietro
www.maryanndipietro.com