Lauren “Lolo” Pritchard was raised in Tennessee, a state known for country music, but she doesn’t consider herself a typical country girl. Reflecting on her roots in Nashville, she acknowledges the ubiquitous presence of country music. From her home office in New York City, where she is currently starring in the Off-Broadway production of Music City, Pritchard shares her journey.
At 38, the singer-songwriter and Broadway veteran finds herself embracing her country origins in the immersive new musical set in a fictional Nashville bar called the Wicked Tickle. The storyline follows three aspiring artists navigating challenges to achieve their dreams. Pritchard remarks on the universal theme of perseverance and the diverse paths individuals take to reach their goals.
Portraying the character 23, Pritchard delves into a narrative of financial struggles and a mother grappling with substance abuse. She emphasizes the character’s strength and determination, breaking away from the traditional damsel-in-distress portrayal often associated with country music. Drawing inspiration from icons like Loretta Lynn and Dolly Parton, Pritchard infuses her character with a blend of resilience and vulnerability.
Her portrayal in Music City draws from Pritchard’s personal journey as a singer-songwriter, having independently released four albums under her stage name Lolo, characterized by soul and indie-rock influences. She aims to provide audiences with insights into the music industry’s realities and the challenges artists face.
Returning to the theater scene, Pritchard reminisces about her Broadway debut as a high school senior in the renowned 2006 musical Spring Awakening, a production that launched the careers of notable talents like Lea Michele and Jonathan Groff. She recalls the camaraderie among the cast members and the enduring bond they share even after two decades.
Amidst theatrical engagements and music projects, Pritchard has collaborated with renowned artists such as Fall Out Boy and Panic! at the Disco. She now finds herself merging her dual passions in New York City, reflecting on her journey as a songwriter and the cyclical nature of returning to her roots.
Discover more about Pritchard in the Bustle Booth below.
In The Bustle Booth
What’s your coffee order?
A small nonfat latte, preferably hot.
What are the saved weather locations on your phone?
NYC; Jackson, Tennessee; Nashville, Tennessee; and Gulf Shores, Alabama.
What’s your sign?
Capricorn.
Favorite overused movie quote?
“To infinity and beyond” from Toy Story.
What was your favorite cartoon as a kid?
Animaniacs.
What’s one movie or TV show you’re currently obsessed with?
Resident Alien. Alan Tudyk is the greatest.
Who is your celeb idol?
Bryan Adams. I love his songs and songwriting so very much.
If you had to be on a reality TV show, what would it be?
Big Brother. There is something really fascinating to me about putting a whole bunch of strangers in a room and just seeing what happens.
Go-to karaoke song?
“I Wanna Dance With Somebody” by Whitney Houston.
What’s something that’s inspiring you lately?
Revisiting albums that I loved as a kid. It’s a fun walk down memory lane. Plus, I find new inspiration ’cause I can relate to it in a whole new way, too. I highly recommend it.
What is something you would want people to say about you?
That they enjoy my company.
Transform the following:
“Today is a good day to start something new.”
into
“Starting something new today is a great idea.”
