Chelsea Schmidt
It was one of those WOW moments when I saw Chelsea Schmidt on stage for the first time in Catch Me If You Can at Runway Theatre. Chelsea brought such style and elegance to the character of Paula. It was a beautifully nuanced, almost cinematic portrayal and Chelsea’s lovely voice made the portrayal complete. Everything about Chelsea says “STAR!” I am totally impressed with Chelsea Schmidt and can’t wait to watch her star rise. Take a few moments to learn about the phenomenal Chelsea.
When was your first time on stage?
Technically, my first time on stage was a very Lutheran nativity pageant, playing a very earnest angel. But my first real time—where I felt like a performer—was just a two years ago, as a featured dancer and ensemble in GPAC’s “School of Rock”. It was one of hose moments where something shifts - I stepped into our first rehearsal and thought, “Ah. So this is where my people are!”
When did you know you wanted to be an actor?
It was more of a gradual unveiling than a lightning bolt. I’ve always had a deep love for old movies, the kind where the performances were romantic, subtle, stylish, and full of nuance. But modern musical theatre that really ignited something in me. I’d find myself singing along to scores from Hamilton, Hadestown, In The Heights, drawn to the emotional complexity and vocal storytelling. Eventually, I realized I didn’t just want to admire it, I wanted to do it. Once I took the leap and was given the opportunity to perform, everything just...clicked. My voice (and drama) finally had somewhere to live.
Who is your greatest mentor?
I wouldn’t say I have one singular mentor—I’ve always been quite independent (albeit naïve) when it comes to forging my path. However I’ve been lucky to have a circle of wonderfully supportive people: insightful directors who’ve challenged me, a brilliant vocal coach (Rachel Davies) and music directors (Thomas Bartke, Christina Davis to name a few) who’ve helped me trust my instrument, and a husband and close friends who cheer me on every step of the way. I’ve learned to keep what resonates, stay curious, not compare myself to others, and build something that’s very much my own.
What role have you enjoyed the most in your career so far?
I must have two. I had an absolute blast playing Janet Van De Graaff in The Drowsy Chaperone, a dazzling cocktail of bravado, charm, and tongue-in-cheek glamour. I got to belt, twirl, and flirt with the fourth wall—and all while dripping in sequins. It was such a playful challenge, balancing the exaggerated showbiz persona with little cracks of sincerity underneath.
Playing Paula Abagnale in Catch Me If You Can has been a real gift. She’s elegant, complicated, and written with so much subtle emotion. I loved exploring the vulnerability and poise she carries—especially through her songs. It was a chance to be grounded, maternal, a little wistful, and still completely captivating. and “Don’t Be a Stranger; “with all its quiet ache was one of those moments where the character and the music just fit me like a glove.
Do you have a dream role?
When I first got started, I might have told you Rent’s Maureen Johnson would have put me “Over the Moon”. After becoming Paula, I’m aligning more with Alaura Kingsley from City of Angels. She’s sultry, sophisticated, mysterious, and written like a love letter to the femmes fatales of 1940s film noir. She’s layered, calculating, and utterly captivating with a delicious undercurrent of danger.
What person(s) would you like to be on stage with?
Since we’re dreaming…Patti LuPone and Jonathan Groff for very different but equally thrilling reasons. Patti has that volcanic presence that grabs the entire room by the collar. She’s fearless, fierce, and would absolutely keep me on my toes in the best possible way. Jonathan, on the other hand, exudes grounded, open-hearted energy making every moment onstage feel truthful and alive. I imagine being on stage with the two of them would be equal parts masterclass and joyride.
What performances have you seen that impressed you?
I’ve always been drawn to stories with a tragic core; the heartbreak you know is coming but can’t look away from, which Hadestown captures so beautifully. The music, the atmosphere, the way the cast moved as one—it felt like watching a living myth unfold. Seeing Orpheus and Eurydice at the Winspear Opera House recently was a hauntingly gorgeous production that stayed with me for weeks. There’s something deeply moving about watching a familiar tragedy reimagined with such care and imagination.
What are your career goals?
I’d love to carve out a space for women my age in roles that are witty, glamorous, and a little unexpected, and to originate a role that speaks to my strengths while also contributing to a meaningful body of work. Eventually, I’d love to write a play or musical that resonates with audiences and speaks to both timeless and contemporary themes.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
Given my usual focus on the glamour and drama of old Hollywood, people might be surprised to find I’m fascinated by the design and lore behind iconic movie creatures like Predator and Alien. While these two are my favorite, I also love Nosferatu, King Kong, The Creature from the Black Lagoon, etc. I love their intricate backstories, the intentional design, and seeing their continued relevance as they evolve over the decades.
