This issue’s American Eye belongs to Amy Anzel, actress, performer and theatrical producer now living in London with her British husband, whom she met and married after a fairytale romance. Amy recently featured in Channel 4’s ‘The Sound of Musicals’ talking about her dreams, struggles and sheer determination to produce ‘Happy Days’, a musical based on the hit 1970’s American television show. Judith Schrut spoke with Amy over English tea and American oatmeal cookies ahead of the UK premiere and national tour of ‘Happy Days’.
You were born and raised in New York. What brought you to Britain?
I’ve loved performing since I was little and always knew I wanted to work in this profession. After university and community theatre work in different cities and countries, I had returned to New York where between roles and auditions I did a variety of jobs– including working at a club for classic car enthusiasts, music TV producing and as a flight attendant for a business airline. Long story short, on one of the airline’s flight layovers in London, chance events and a lovely friend’s astute matchmaking led me to meet and fall in love with my now-husband Oliver, who is Scottish. We’ve made London our home.
Who are the biggest inspirations in your life and your career?
I know it’s a bit of a cliché to say one’s family has been inspirational, but my mother has always been extremely supportive with a great work ethic and tremendous determination as well. My husband is inspirational as he is so hard working, clever and keeps everything in perspective. During difficult times and challenges, it’s especially important to surround yourself with such inspirational people. I’m also inspired by people in the entertainment business who are multihyphenates. People like George Clooney and Brad Pitt, who have risen above being pigeonholed in the industry and are producers, actors and writers.
What is it about ‘Happy Days the Musical’ that you think audiences will find most enjoyable?
I think audiences will love the nostalgic feel-good element. For many, these are difficult and complicated times to live in, so to forget your troubles and escape to a simpler time is really appealing. It’s a fun show full of fantastic music, incredible dancing and a lovely story about family and relationships that all of us can relate to. And then of course there’s that theme song – I guarantee after seeing the show you won’t be able to get that song out of your head for a long time!
What’s top of your favourite things to do in the UK when you’re not working?
Seeing theatre! There is so much great theatre here. I could go to a show every night and be so happy, and see something new.
What attraction would you advise Americans in Britain to be sure not to miss?
Apart from all those great shows, Americans should not miss London’s Hop on, Hop off Bus Tour. It’s one of my favourites. As well as being really informative and giving you a bird’s eye view of all the major London sights and neighbourhoods, you can spend as little or as much time as you want at each place and familiarise yourself with the city. It’s also terrific value as your ticket is good for 24 hours.
What is your guiltiest pleasure?
Definitely an expensive indulgence for special occasions is afternoon tea at Browns Hotel, with its beautiful and comfortable surroundings, lovely staff who never rush you and unlimited refills of everything!
Are there any American comforts you really miss?
I do miss American style customer service, pizza by the slice and conveniences like being able to order take-outs any time of the day or night. Any thoughts about what you’d like to do next? I’d love to bring ‘Happy Days’ to the West End and then tour it internationally.
Here at American in Britain we are always keen to promote British-American relations– whom would you like to join you at your fantasy cross-country dinner party?
Along with my husband, my perfect dinner party would include Simon Cowell, Stephen Sondheim, George Gershwin, Andrew Carnegie and (theatre producers) Nica Burns and Sir Cameron Mackintosh. I’d hire a great three piece band and serve a casual feast of Mediterranean food – which I’d have to order in as I don’t really cook so well!
You can see “Happy Days the Musical’ at the Cambridge Corn Exchange, Birmingham Hippodrome, Orchard Theatre, Dartford and other leading theatres across the UK this spring and summer. For tickets and further information visit www.happydaysthemusical.com.
Photo: Amy Anzel and Henry Winkler, the original Fonz in Happy Days, photo by Marika Player.
To email Judith Schrut click here