Nobody knows New York City like a local. Some of the city’s notable locals are also the stars of Broadway. We talked with Max von Essen who stars as Billy Flynn in CHICAGO, about his favorite places in New York City.

Tell us about your current Broadway role!
von Essen- I’m currently playing Billy Flynn, the smooth and manipulative defense lawyer in CHICAGO, the iconic, long-running Broadway musical. He’s ruthless, fast-talking and gets to sing his face off. All while never losing a case.

How did you get your start in performing, and what other shows have you performed in?
von Essen- For me, it started very young. I was first drawn to music and playing piano, which led to a love for singing, which led to a love of musical theater and acting. The rest is history. I continued to study and perform through school and university, moved back to NYC as soon as I graduated and started auditioning for everything I could. Happily, it’s worked out, and I’ve gotten to perform in some incredible Broadway musicals like Les Misérables, Jesus Christ Superstar, Dance of the Vampires, Evita, Anastasia, An American in Paris, and now, CHICAGO.

How would you describe your show to someone completely unfamiliar with Broadway?
von Essen- CHICAGO is a classic Broadway musical. With numbers like All That Jazz and Razzle Dazzle, it serves up just what you imagine Broadway to be. Tie in those classic Kander and Ebb songs with a uniquely American story of celebrity, scandal and crime, and you’ve got an evening of music, dance and laughs. It’s a perfect musical. Truly.

What do you love most about the show you are performing in right now?
von Essen- I think what I love most is how the creators decided to tell the story. They’ve set it in a presentational, Vaudeville style. We obviously aim to be dropped in as actors as we share the story, but we also get to sing, dance and speak directly to the audience. Kander & Ebb excel in this style. Just think of Cabaret! Brilliant. The show within a show theme always fascinates me and challenges me as an actor, so Chicago is a thrill. 

What was the one NYC lesson you learned shortly after arriving in the Big Apple?
von Essen- Well, in a way, it ruined me. Or spoiled me, LOL. While I know there are other wonderful places all over the country and the world, I just can’t imagine living anywhere else. The life, the music, the culture, and the convenience. I love it all.

What are the best tips you can give a visitor?
von Essen- I’d say that while it’s always wonderful to be a “tourist,” and trust me, I remind myself to be one here as well, it’s great to also just exist. Get lost in a charming neighborhood like the West Village. Have lunch when you pass a cafe that looks cozy. You don’t always have to have your daily itinerary packed. Sometimes it’s nice to just be.

If you’re going out for a night on the town in New York City, where would you go?
von Essen- Haha, I don’t really do nights on the town, so I’m terrible for advice. My nights are spent in the theater. BUT, for me, meeting friends after a show, grabbing some margaritas and a bite at Arriba Arriba in Hell’s Kitchen, or having a glass of wine at home is heaven.

Where are your favorite spots to send family and friends when they visit?
von Essen- A perfect afternoon is grabbing brunch at Pastis, hitting the Whitney Museum for an hour or two and then walking the Highline and making your way all the way up to the end around Hudson Yards. And if you feel the need for insane views, tie in a visit to The Edge when you reach Hudson Yards. 

What is your favorite meal to enjoy in NYC, and where is it best?
von Essen- Hard to pick a favorite place, but I love a classic New York haunt. Pastis, The Waverly Inn, Morandi, Balthazar, all great. And in the theater district, I love hitting the gluten-free friendly Nizza or Senza Gluten. 

What do you love best about New York City?
von Essen- New York City can be a tough place to live, there’s a lot going on and I know it can feel overwhelming. But for me, that’s exactly why I love and appreciate it. If I’m in my apartment, I can tune out the world and recharge. But the moment I need to feel stimulated, I just walk out my door. I can catch a last-minute show, meet a friend for a cocktail, hit a museum or just go on a long walk or bike ride. I love that convenience and excitement. There is truly no place quite like it. 

Follow Max on social media at @maxizpad!