by Gil Benbrook
The classic musical
The Pajama Game was an instant hit when it opened on Broadway in 1954, running for over 1,000 performances and winning three Tony Awards, including the top prize of Best Musical.
The story is set in a pajama factory where the workers are requesting a seven-and-a-half cent raise. When their demands for a pay increase don't get traction, they threaten to strike. But, love begins to blossom between Babe, who is the head of the grievance committee, and the new factory superintendent Sid, who are on opposing sides of the issue.
The musical features such classic showtunes as "Hey There," "Steam Heat," "Hernando's Hideaway," and "I'm Not at All in Love."
Scottsdale Musical Theater Company brings the beloved show to town for a two week run at Tempe Center for the Arts from July 11 to the 21st and Liz Blair, who plays Babe, took a break from rehearsals to answer some questions about the show, her character, and what it's like working for SMTC.
Liz, The Pajama Game is a classic musical comedy but for someone who’s never heard of the show how would you describe it?
"It’s a show about relationships, conviction and standing up for what you believe in... with a lot of humor, great dance numbers and a ton of fun thrown in. In today’s world, I think the message is more important than ever. Ultimately we have a choice...party or humanity, cause or connection. It’s great if you can have both, but life rarely plays out that way. I think humanity and connection
is what will bring us to what really matters!"
What can you tell us about the character you play, Babe Williams?
"She’s a firecracker! Spunky, opinionated ...a raw nerve masked by a life of disappointment and
being ahead of her time. She sees things differently than others and thus never really feels
'seen', not until Sid. She ends up using “causes” as a way to satisfy that need to 'matter', without compromising who she is."
What qualities in Babe do you most identify with?
"Ummm ...all of the above?!? Seriously though it’s a role that speaks to my core. I use sarcasm,
wit and strength as a way to move through the world without being absorbed. However, I am the
biggest softy!!! I cry at Hallmark commercials! I crave to be vulnerable and share my humanity in
a world that won’t see that as something to control or take advantage of. Ultimately, I’ve found a
balance of soft and hard that allows me to feel true to myself yet tough enough to handle the
roller coaster life of an artistic, passionate soul."
 |
Liz Blair in A Christmas Carol
courtesy of Scottsdale Musical Theater Company |
Babe was immortalized on screen by Doris Day in the 1957 film. Any trepidation in taking on a character that so many closely identify with such an iconic musical comedy actress?
"Well now I do!!!(kidding...partially) In all honesty, I don’t let myself think about those things, it’s hard enough to tackle your vision of a role and how to bring that out...sometimes things don’t translate! That paired with the collaboration of fellow actors, directors and producers...there is no room for what was before. We each have a voice that is uniquely ours, so I try to share that and not fall into the trap of comparison. Of course, that said, I get super insecure during the process and doubt myself just like any artist! I think that’s okay, it keeps you humble and constantly exploring, which makes the process really fun! I love the discovery!"
Babe is feisty and headstrong but also falls head over heels in love almost as soon as the show begins. What are some of the difficulties in playing a character that is so strong but also such a romantic, even though she won’t exactly admit it?
"I really relate to the qualities in Babe that many may see as unrealistic or concocted, I’m like
the 80’s 'Rom-Com' Queen...I believe in love at first sight, or at least magnetic, kinetic pulls
toward certain people and places.Yet many would not think that upon meeting me. It’s possible
to be gentle and shrill, loving and hard. We see it every day in real life. Unfortunately, many
characters are written so 'cohesive' that they stop representing the complexities of 'real
people'. I try to tackle these extremes of character by asking myself, what is the opposite
intention of the words on the page, when are you lying and what happened offstage that is not
implicit in the script."
This show has been an audience favorite for over 60 years. Why do you think that is?
"Passion and politics...two themes that never get old. Conflict shown through humor and fun is
an intoxicating mix. It’s an upbeat show filled with angst. The songs are deceptively difficult
while very high energy. I think it has the classic feel of a Broadway Standard the likes of
Guys
and Dolls but with the smaller ensemble intricacies of a Sondheim piece. Basically, it’s
relatable"
What’s your favorite song in the show and why?
“ 'Hey There (Reprise)'...you get a chance to see “Babe” stripped down, raw and vulnerable. It’s
a simple yet very different tone both vocally and internally than what we see the rest of the
show."
 |
Liz Blair, left, in Thoroughly Modern Millie
courtesy of Scottsdale Musical Theater Company |
I believe this is your fourth production with Scottsdale Musical Theater Company, having
played Mrs. Fezziwig in A Christmas Carol, appearing in their Ethel Merman cabaret show
and most recently playing Miss Flannery in Thoroughly Modern Millie, where you brought
the house down with your sharp comic timing and superb tap dancing. What is it that
originally drew you to SMTC and has made you keep coming back?
"Thank you for the kind words! Honestly, I first auditioned for SMTC because I hadn’t before and I was looking to find new opportunities in the Valley, plus I was very interested in working with the guest artists! It’s such a great opportunity to push yourself and grow from these talented stars! I keep coming back mainly because I’m given the room and faith to explore and grow as a performer. David, our director, doesn’t micro manage, he wants you to keep exploring and finding new ways to invent your work. I appreciate being able to push myself in a nurturing environment!"
What do you hope audiences will take away from seeing The Pajama Game at Scottsdale
Musical Theater Company?
"Hmmm, so many things! I want them to have fun, feel inspired…be glad they got the
babysitter?!? But more seriously, I hope they walk away with a cathartic release and a hope that
through these difficult opposing times, we can all unite in our humanity."
CLICK HERE for more information on this production, which runs July 11 - 21
