Levi Skoog

 I first saw the amazingly talented Levi Skoog in a supporting role in The Firehouse Theatre’s Miracle on 34th Street. He made the character both real and hilarious and was an audience favorite. Recently I attended Theatre Frisco’s A Grand Night for Singing and discovered that Levi has an incredible voice and presence as a musical performer. Whether in a play or musical, Levi is at home on the stage and we are very lucky that this recent transplant to DFW is here to entertain us. Take a few moments to learn more about Levi and his journey on the performing arts.

When was your first time on stage?

My first time on stage was back in 2002 in a community theater production of “The Wizard of Oz” as a flying monkey and a munchkin at Sauk Valley Community College in Sterling, IL.

When did you know you wanted to be an actor?

From a very early age I was obsessed with The Sound of Music and The Wizard of Oz, and that catapulted my interest in the arts. I had very supportive parents who nurtured these interests and got me involved in singing and dance lessons from the moment I showed enthusiasm. My father turned a backyard shed into a theater where I would create sets and put on plays with my friends. It’s hard to pinpoint a specific moment, as performing has been a part of my DNA for as long as I can remember!

Who is your greatest mentor?

I have had the privilege of working with all kinds of directors and mentors that have helped mold and shape me into the performer I am. One that I must mention would be James Beaudry, who was the artistic director of Timber Lake Playhouse, a summer stock theater close to my hometown. He provided me with guidance, opportunity, and exposure I never would have received had he not been there. He gave me the chance to perform in the company with experienced actors and build a resume before graduating high school. This unique experience gave me hands-on experience working in a professional theater setting, and was an invaluable resource in honing my craft, as well as providing guidance for college, and giving me a chance to experience the grind working actors face at such a young age. He saw a potential in me that gave me confidence and motivation at a young age, and it changed the trajectory of my life!

 What role have you enjoyed the most in your career so far?

Last year, I played Gabe in Next to Normal, and that was a very challenging and vocally demanding role. I loved the story and music, and I love a tearjerker! Another role that was a highlight for me was playing Adam in the Chicagoland Premiere of Freaky Friday at Raue Center for the Arts.

Do you have a dream role?

I would love to play Whizzer in Falsettos and Demitri in Anastasia!

What person(s) would you like to be on stage with?

I would give ANYTHING to time travel and be on stage with Reba McEntire when she played Annie Oakley in Annie Get Your Gun. Even if I was just on stage as a speck of dust. I would also love to be on stage singing anything accompanied by Seth Rudetsky.

What performances have you seen that impressed you?

Clue at Dallas Theater Center was the first show I saw when I moved to Texas. I thought the cast was amazing, and the set was super innovative and impressive. It made me excited to get involved in DFW Theater!!

What are your career goals?

I would love to continue playing challenging and enjoyable roles as long as I can! I would also love to perform on a cruise ship, as well as try my hand at writing and directing.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I am obsessed with the soap opera “General Hospital,” and I can quote the entirety of the 1989 film “Steel Magnolias.”