Jessica Vosk: Embracing Bette Midler's Legacy in "Beaches"

From Social Media to Broadway Star

If you've recently scrolled through social media, chances are you've seen Jessica Vosk's charmingly chaotic series, Vosk in the City. Known for her spontaneous street interviews, Vosk is now stepping into the spotlight in a different way—as C.C. Bloom in the Broadway musical adaptation of the beloved 1988 film Beaches.

Redefining an Iconic Role

The original film, featuring Bette Midler as the effervescent C.C. and Barbara Hershey as the contemplative Hillary, is a poignant exploration of friendship that resonates deeply with audiences. Vosk understands the weight of this legacy and embraces it, saying, "I'm a Bette purist and I think her version is perfect. It's the version that has always existed for me." Her dedication to honoring Midler's legendary rendition of "Wind Beneath My Wings" while adding her own nuanced performance is a testament to her understanding of the character and the context of the original work.

"It wasn't broken in the first place... it's an emotional song." - Jessica Vosk

Courage and Authenticity

In an industry where comparisons are inevitable, Jessica Vosk shines not just for her vocal prowess but for her refreshing candor. She faces the pressure of stepping into a role defined by an icon with grace. "Originating is completely yours, top to bottom," Vosk explains, highlighting the intricate balance between making a role her own and staying true to the original narration of Beaches.

The Journey of Jessica Vosk

Vosk's journey to Broadway is uniquely her own; she didn't conform to the traditional mold of a Broadway star. Like her character C.C., she has navigated struggles and self-doubt, relying on humor and resilience. "There's a lot of C.C. in Jessica," she reflects. This personal connection adds an authenticity that will undoubtedly resonate with audiences, making her portrayal both relatable and inspiring.

Broadway Debut and Anticipations

As Beaches prepares to open at the Majestic Theatre on April 22 for a limited run, the anticipation builds not only for Vosk's performance but for the potential surprise appearance of Bette Midler herself. "Getting to even perform for five minutes for this woman would be a time of my life where I'd be like, I am good," Vosk laughs, joking that she might become a gardener afterward.

Listen to the Full Conversation

In our exclusive chat, we delve into Vosk's ambitions, her reflections on womanhood in the entertainment industry, and how she continues to embrace her quirky persona through Vosk in the City. For more, tune into the full interview on the Parting Shot Podcast.