Joshua Turchin: Born to be on Broadway
“A Christmas Story the Musical” was my first professional job that I booked when I was 8-years-old. It was additionally my first time as a principal character in a musical. I loved performing with everyone and visiting different cities as a part of the tour. One of my favorite memories of the tour was going outside after one of the shows and seeing snow on the ground. It was such a pretty moment and it was the first time I saw snow!
2. Having been working in the industry since you were young, how do you think your early exposure to acting and the commercial world has shaped your approach to the craft?
Working in the industry from a young age, I was given the (not-so-great) privilege to experience the “dead zone”, which is the period when it is the hardest for young actors to find work. Auditions became less frequent as I got older. However, this gave me the opportunity to create my own work online through composing and writing.
3. You have performed as Flounder in “The Little Mermaid Live to Film” at the iconic Hollywood Bowl. What was that experience like? What is your favorite memory from that show?
Performing as Flounder was one of my favorite jobs I’ve ever done. Everyone involved was so sweet, and I met a lot of people who I’m still great friends and frequent collaborators with today! One of my favorite memories from the show was when I went onto the stage for the first time and saw the over 17000 seats in the theater. I was absolutely terrified, but also excited! I also loved being able to meet one of my favorite composers, Alan Menken.
4. During your career, you have worked alongside some amazing performers such as Lea Michele, Harvey Fierstein, and Kristin Chenoweth. What have you learned from working with such seasoned performers?
From working with seasoned performers, I’ve learned that oftentimes the most successful people are the ones who are more willing to collaborate with others.
5. Congratulations on producing so many projects at such venues as Below 54. Can you share more about your journey into producing and your experiences in this process?
I absolutely love producing at 54 Below! I started producing shows in general at the age of 11, and I’ve produced at 54 Below for quite a few of my recent ones! To start, I come up with a concept for a show. Then I start to assemble a cast and put together sheet music for the show. Then, we have some rehearsals and eventually, it’s showtime! One of my favorite experiences producing was putting together TikTok Takes Broadway, since I was able to meet and perform in person with so many of my online friends at once!
6. You are always creating music and releasing new singles. What is it that draws you to write certain music and how do you choose the music you want to put on an EP? Do you find there is a theme to your songwriting?
I love writing in all styles and match my musical style to the concept of an EP. For that reason, I don’t think there are that many recurring themes in my songwriting. Since I grew up immersed in it, musical theatre is probably my favorite style to write in.
7. As a trained musician, you play about 15 instruments. What has been your easiest to learn and what has been your most challenging?
The easiest instrument for me to learn was probably the piano. I’ve been playing it for so long that it just feels like second nature. The hardest instrument to learn was guitar since I was so used to the piano!
8. You are actively involved in charitable causes. Can you tell us about the importance of giving back to the community, and are there specific causes that hold a special place in your heart?
Being active in one’s community is such an important part of being a performer. I love helping others, and I feel like music is one of the most therapeutic art forms in existence. One group that I work with often is the Ukulele Kids Club, a charity that helps children with serious physical and mental health conditions by using music and ukuleles to help cope.
9. When not immersed in the world of entertainment, what do you enjoy doing? How do these activities contribute to your overall well-being, and do they influence your approach to your craft?
I love hanging out with friends and collaborating with them! Every time I work with someone I know, I feel like I learn something new.
10. Looking ahead, are there any specific projects or roles you aspire to take on in the future, and what goals do you have for both your acting and producing careers?
Currently, I’m working on a pirate musical which goes by the working title “Vengeance”. I’m hoping to continue developing it and get it to a point where I can fully share it! For my acting and producing careers, I hope to keep working and giving others the opportunity to perform as well!
