Nova Y. Payton Discusses Caroline, or Change and Making Your Own Space!
Nova Y. Payton is truly a regular in the DC Theatre Scene, and if you ever have the honor of seeing her perform, you will understand why. With a voice that you remember for an eternity and a presence that can be felt from miles away, she is truly the embodiment of not only Black Excellence but also true mastery of your craft. This Helen Hayes Award-winning actress has performed in DC at companies such as The Kennedy Center, Arena Stage, Ford's Theatre, Signature Theatre, Round House Theatre, Olney Theatre, and Shakespeare Theatre Company, and regionally with The Milwaukee Repertory Theatre and the 5th Avenue Theatre in Seattle, Washington.
I am very honored to have the chance to feature the incomparable Nova Y. Payton!
How old were you when you knew you wanted to be a performer?
I was three years old when I did my first musical, and I knew then I wanted to be onstage.
Are there any teachers or mentors in your life who truly helped you become the fantastic artist you are today?
My mother was my first teacher. She’s an amazing performer who has traveled the world singing. Growing up with her friends and colleagues who were musicians and artists, they would be in the house singing and playing instruments, and I would be in the middle soaking it all up. As an adult, I was fortunate enough to travel the world singing background for Roberta Flack. Being under her tutelage helped to groom my craft for stages and festivals that I had never thought I would be a part of. She’s an icon and legend but a teacher first. She expected the best and knew how to get it out of you.
We are living in some unprecedented times in the world but are very fortunate right now to see a light at the end of the tunnel. For all artists (especially performers) it has definitely been a time of uncertainty. What has your everyday routine been like during Quarantine and what are some things you do to keep your spirits up?
Well, I’m a single mother of two beautiful children. So, I’ve been very busy. Lol! My oldest is an 11-year-old, sixth grader, and he’s been in virtual school since the pandemic started. My daughter just turned 3, and she’s keeping me busy with trying to figure out what to do to make sure she gets what she needs so she is prepared for when things get back to some type of “normal”. My primary goal is to always make sure that they are taken care of.
So, first thing in the morning, I’m up with them, and we’re dressed and ready for the day. I’ve been able to take on a couple of vocal students as well. I teach them during the lunch break and after school. For me, the artist, I’ve been fortunate enough to work on a number of different projects. Most recently, the 46th Inauguration Mass for President Biden and Vice President Harris. Maestro Luke Frazier and The American Pops Orchestra have kept me very busy. I’ve done a few PBS specials, private events (virtual and in-person), and outdoor concerts when the weather was great. I am forever grateful for the work they’ve continued to pass my way.
I’ve also helped to establish a wonderful organization called The Black Artists Coalition. I’m very proud of the work we’ve started and what’s to come. Check us out on Facebook and YouTube. I’m a cantor for a Saturday Vigil Mass and worship leader for Prince George’s Community Church here in Maryland and on the music department staff for my church, St. Martin of Tours in DC. I’ve taught myself how to edit videos in Final Cut Pro X as well. As you can see, I’ve been able to do a lot and it’s all been great.
Your career inspires me like no other! Are there any roles, musicals, or performances that you have done in your career that will always be near and dear to your heart?
Awww...Thank you! Let’s see, I’ve played Effie White a few times. Each time I’ve had the opportunity to revisit this role, it’s been refreshing. I’ve found something new to bring to the journey, but I would LOVE to do Caroline from Caroline, or Change again too. I absolutely loved doing that role. I can relate to her in so many ways, and it was hard to admit that at first. If I had the chance to do that show again, I would jump at it. I’m excited to see what the Broadway production will be like.
What advice would you give any young aspiring artists during these times?
Hustle is the name of this game. Don’t sit around waiting for things to come to you. Make your own space in the place. Now is the time to be creative AND work on your craft. Stay ready so you don’t have to get ready.
Check out Nova Y. Payton as Sarah along with Kevin McAllister as Coalhouse Walker Jr. (Broadway's Come From Away, Caroline, or Change) perform "Sarah Brown Eyes" in a behind the scenes video from Ford's Theatre production of Ragtime in 2016