Shaun “Willow” Breland
If you’ve had the pleasure of seeing Shaun “Willow” Breland on stage, you know what a magnetic performer he is. I last saw Shaun in NTPA’s Pippin and his singing and dancing were outstanding to say the least. Shaun is an ambitious young man who would like to explore directing and film work in addition to theater. Take a few moments to read about the very talented Shaun “Willow” Breland.
When was your first time on stage?
My first time on stage was in 5th grade in Willy Wonka Jr. I was cast as Charlie but was way too tall to play a kid, so they gave me Grandpa Joe. I was a little upset but was excited to be in the production. I still remember the songs, the set, the smell and how I felt after we performed. It was a beautiful stage in Tyler, Texas at the R. Don Cowan Fine and Performing Arts Center. They gave us the main stage of the city, which was a lot smaller at the time. “Flying” still rings in my head day to day and would love to either direct or be in a production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory for a full circle moment.
When did you know you wanted to be an actor?
I wanted to be a professional singer first. I was very young watching “American Idol” and use to always want to get on there to sing the Star-Spangled Banner perfectly just to show that SOMEONE in America could. I used to laugh and poke fun at everyone because it was always just so bad, so I practiced and I practiced and always made it through to the next round, per my mothers’ approval! It wasn’t until high school, when I was cast in High School Musical, playing Chad, that I fell in love with the process. I was still very green cause most of my life was spent playing basketball, but I did get to live my Troy Bolton fantasy having to leave practice early to go to rehearsals. However, it was not much of a secret, but I looked forward to it every day and had a wonderful teacher and even better castmates. The stage and theatre were the first place I felt safe and comfortable being myself and expressing my art and High School Musical really set that in stone.
Who is your greatest mentor?
I have had the pleasure of working with several knowledgeable performers and being under the direction of some incredibly notable teachers in the business. However, the first that sticks out the most was of course my high school theatre teacher, Steven Wikoff. He helped immerse me into the arts and saw me for who I was and gave me a chance when I was not in the position to even accept myself or what else I had to offer. He was my first mentor and turned out to be a lifelong friend who will always have a special place in my heart. He taught me that if there is something you want or a gift you want to express you can’t hold it in because it would be the death of your very essence. The thing that makes you, you. Next would-be Lizz Bashore. She is the first person, I feel, to actually fully care about the craft and the people she touches with her art. I have had the pleasure of working alongside her in a couple productions and she has been my go-to person when it comes to questions involving the business or just personal growth outside of it. She is a one-of-a-kind artist, mentor and friend and I will forever be grateful for her direction and heart.
What role have you enjoyed the most in your career so far?
The role I have enjoyed the most, so far, would be ensemble for Pippin! The show itself felt like a parody spoof gone right but what makes me love it was the libretto. The music and the harmonies were so beautiful, and the songs were really fun to sing! It was the right amount of silly to highlight rather serious moments and would love to do it again!
Do you have a dream role?
My dream role would be anything from the Golden Age since I feel my voice sits right at home with that style and tone of music back then. Brassier full and warm songs as opposed to seeing who can sing the highest. I absolutely have to be in Hamilton, George Washington would be my pick of roles. “History has its Eyes on You” is my favorite song from the musical and to tap into the emotion of the song and perform that would be a huge highlight in my career! I’d also love to be Quasi from Hunchback even though it would be more of Shrek cosplaying as Quasi from Hunchback but I’m always attracted to good vocal pieces so anything in that wheel house, I am down to tackle!
What performances have you seen that impressed you?
The performance I have seen that impressed me most was Young Frankenstein. I had never seen it but knew a bit about the story and was blown away by the staging, for the space they had. The acting was what sold me, I was engrossed in the story from start to finish! Great show all around. I’ve gotten the pleasure of seeing a touring version of Wicked and it is definitely in my top! It was everything I thought it would be and more!
What are your career goals?
My career goals are to get into the traveling circuit and do some traveling shows, see the world doing what I love type of vibe. Whether that be on a cruise ship or just in a show, in general I am all for it. I do have a fond love for directing and would love to explore than more. I feel I have a certain eye and understanding of the process and putting together and telling a great story like no one else can! I do see myself on screen one of these days, would be fantastic to be in a sitcom or long running show that just “wouldn’t work unless I was that specific role”.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I think people would be surprised to know that I am one of the main people keeping “Grey’s Anatomy” on air with my viewing contribution! I do it for my future director Shonda Rhimes! I have loved everything she has produced and would be honored to be featured in season 37 of Grey’s! But, on a serious note, I love music. Classical music is my safe haven. I hope to someday be able to play the violin, cello, and theremin and continue my mastery of trombone, baritone and piano!
