“Being a Robe recipient means, to me, being recognized by a community of actors who celebrate and honor those who remain dedicated to this business. I think of the first time I attended a ceremony and dreaming of being inducted/honored into this ‘club.’ I recall being surprised to receive the robe for Once On This Island, as I strongly believed it was going to go to another cast-mate of mine. So I was completely shocked when my name was called and weeping with joy as I circled the group.”
Name: Grasan Kingsberry
Hometown: Charlotte, NC
First Broadway Credit: Aida, 2003
Professional Training: The Juilliard School; Northwest School of the Arts
Year Joined Equity: 2003
How I Got My Equity Card: I booked Aida as a replacement two months before I graduated college and got my Equity card from that open call!
Number of Broadway Chorus Contract Credits: 11!
Fun Fact: I have performed at the St. James Theatre three times – two of them were back to back – and twice at the Imperial Theater!
Grasan Kingsberry does the ceremonial three laps around the circle of company members and supporters. Photo by Michael Kushner.
Grasan Kingsberrg with fellow cast members of Once on This Island. Photo by Michael Kushner.
View the full gallery of photos
Watch the video of the ceremony