Seeing a Broadway show is one of the best things you can do on your trip to New York City. If you’re searching for other things to do, the best way to find suggestions is by talking to an NYC local. Luckily, Broadway’s superb entertainers like Micaela Diamond are among the city’s numerous locals. We talked with the performer about her favorite places in New York City and her role in the newly opened production of Parade.
Talking NYC WIth Micaela Diamond of Broadway’s Parade
Tell us about your current Broadway role!
Diamond: I’m playing Lucille Frank in Parade on Broadway! I love her. She’s very southern! Lucy is kind of mousy at the beginning of the show (wealthy Jewish upbringing, wishing her marriage had some more fire and, honestly, love), and then you watch her slowly find her power throughout the show. It’s a beloved role and show in the musical theater world—it makes going to work every day like a dream.
How did you get your start in performing, and in what other shows have you performed?
Diamond: I used to constantly beg my mom to invite all our neighbors and family members over to watch me dance and sing songs. Once, I was going so full out that I cracked my chin open dancing in socks. I, truthfully, loved the attention and apparently still do. I go to therapy, no worries. Some of my favorite roles I’ve played were Louise in Gypsy and Sally Bowles in Cabaret. I did not crack my chin open in either performance.
What is your favorite Broadway show to see as an audience member?
Diamond: I love a show like Sweeney Todd. It’s so odd, and you just have no idea how to feel at the end. I like when there’s some conversation to follow. Maybe even a disagreement!! Luckily, we’ve got the nineteenth revival of the show on Broadway this season. Just kidding—it’s the fourth.
What are your favorite NYC local tips?
Diamond: The subway is faster than the car, sorry. Bring a book if you’re going to Brooklyn—you’ll finish half of it by the time you’re transferring from the L. Don’t think too much about the price of coffee. Ya know? We all have the same opinion; we don’t have to moan and groan. We choose to live here. And my last tip is to go to the farmer’s market! It can really change your mood, and it’s much more fun to eat in season.
If you’re going out for a night on the town in New York City, where would you go?
Diamond: I’m queer, so Cubbyhole is fun. It’s a little crowded lately because, for some reason, there are 19 million gay bars, like three lesbian bars. If you are not gay in some capacity (which is wild), don’t go to Cubby Hole! There’s a place called The Commerce Inn down in the West Village I love. A little pub-y, a little straight, in a good way. Warmly lit and perfect for an amaretto. Or two.
Where are your favorite spots to send family and friends when they visit?
Diamond: Vic’s in SOHO because I worked back of the house. Thereafter, I went to culinary school. Do not even go if you don’t order the fried onions and fonduta. I also love Momofuku Ko for a fancy moment. The vibe is hip hop music and fine dining….get the cold fried chicken. Just trust me. Apparently, the only non-food spot I can think of is Central Park. You will want to be a marathon runner after you stroll every time, so just be prepared.
Q: What is your favorite meal to enjoy in NYC?
Diamond: Via Carota. It’s a bougie Italian moment. Bread bathed in anchovy butter, cacio e pepe and piles of lettuce washed three times. I don’t even wash mine once? First come, first serve, so go for an early moment, preferably in the spring when waiting outside won’t be a bother. Or sit at the bar by yourself and order two pastas. (I have actually done this.)
