Lynne Wintersteller
Recent Lortel nominee, Lynne Wintersteller, joins us On The Couch this week. Wintersteller is no stranger to the stage, having just finished her run in Maltby & Shire’s About Time off-Broadway. Lynne returns to Richard Maltby and David Shire‘s new musical revue having previously performed in their musical Closer Than Ever, which earned her a Drama Desk nomination. Read our full interview below, where Lynne speaks about her embarrassing run in with the legendary Judy Collins.
–
What do you consider to be your best asset?
My empathic abilities. It’s been a blessing and a curse. I’ve had to learn how to filter to protect myself and my emotions. As an actress, it’s allowed me to go deep into character study.
My empathic abilities. It’s been a blessing and a curse. I’ve had to learn how to filter to protect myself and my emotions. As an actress, it’s allowed me to go deep into character study.
–
What was your proudest moment?
At the age of 13, finishing the lead as Pocahontas wanting it to go on forever. I literally got down on my knees, clasped my hands and prayed “God, please let me be an actress. Please!” It’s been answered prayer ever since.
–
What is your favorite drink?
A nice, sweet Riesling.
–
What is your favorite food?
Shrimp Scampi.
–
What is your favorite condiment?
Mayonnaise. I’m from the Midwest, what can I say?
–
What is your current obsession?
Minimalism. Getting rid of anything I don’t need or use.
–
If you could give up one of your vices, what would it be?
Overthinking and stressing myself out unnecessarily.
–
What is the one professional accomplishment you long for most?
A one-woman theatrical show.
–
What is the one thing you waste too much money on?
Not sure if it’s a waste, but recently my niece got certified and introduced me to Dip Powder Manicures. It’s an extra monthly expense, but my nails look amazing!
–
What is the one activity you waste too much time doing?
Scrolling through YouTube. UGH!
–
What do you consider to be the single greatest threat to your health?
Negative thinking and watching the news.
–
What’s the single best trait you inherited or learned from your parents?
I had incredible parents! I inherited my singing; they were both gifted natural singers. And I learned to live with no regrets. Do what you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life.
–
What’s the single worst trait you inherited or learned from your parents?
Perfectionism and being too critical of myself.
–
What in the world most thrills you?
Observing kindness, especially towards children and animals.
–
What current trend in popular culture irritates you most?
Highly opinionated people, especially the Keyboard Warriors.
–
What was the most embarrassing moment you’ve ever experienced on the job?
I’ve had many, but what comes to mind recently is this exquisite woman comes up to me after one of the performances of About Time and was complimenting my voice and my acting and all I could think of as she was talking was “she looks familiar, what have we done together, what show?” I looked into her deep blue piercing eyes, hugged her hoping she would give me her name or what we did together, and I said out loud “you are gorgeous, thank you!” I left the theatre, got a few blocks to the subway station and realized MY GOD! I JUST HUGGED JUDY COLLINS!
–
What is your favorite place in the world?
Home with my Husband and cats. Our Lakehouse and our apartment.
–
What is the most important trait you seek in a romantic partner?
Mutual Trust.
–
Do you prefer the company of dogs or cats?
I’ve had dogs all my life. But years ago, we rescued a malnourished tomcat, and we’ve been cat lovers ever since. Our cats act like dogs plus it’s nice to look out the window in nasty weather and know we only have to clean a litter box!
–
What would have to happen to make today the best day of your life?
All my siblings, nieces, nephews and cousins together partying.
–
What is your personal motto?
Know thyself!