Nobody knows New York City like a local. Some of the city’s notable locals are also the stars of Broadway. We talked with Erich Bergen who stars as Raymond Demarest in BOOP! The Betty Boop Musical, about his favorite places in New York City.
Erich Bergen: From Chelsea Kid to Broadway Star
Tell us about your current Broadway role!
Bergen- I play Raymond Demarest in BOOP! The Betty Boop Musical. We meet Raymond in the middle of his campaign for Mayor of NYC, and let’s just say that his business practices are not the most kosher. He tries to use Betty’s celebrity to gain some traction by making her his running mate, but Betty is too smart for that. Ironic that Raymond gets a dose of reality from a cartoon!
How did you get your start in performing, and what other shows have you performed in?
Bergen- I was born and raised in Chelsea, right in the heart of NYC, and after I was discovered at an after-school theater program in the village, I signed with my first manager and started working as a professional actor at 10 years old. I’ve been very lucky to have been working since then – some of my favorite projects have been Waitress and Chicago on Broadway, and I was lucky enough to film all 7 seasons of Madam Secretary right here in NYC.
How would you describe your show to someone completely unfamiliar with Broadway?
Bergen- It’s a giant ball of joy and laughter. This show is ULTIMATE Broadway—tap dancing, glittery costumes, and songs that you’ll leave humming. You don’t need to know anything about Betty Boop to enjoy it, either. Just come with the whole family, and let it wash over you.
What do you love most about the show you are performing in right now?
Bergen- I’ve got the best seat in the house. When I look out at the audience every night and see every age, color, and gender all smiling and laughing together, it fills my heart. That’s what great theater does – it brings everyone together. And if we do our job right, everyone – including us on stage – gets to leave the theater a little happier than when we arrived.
Boop! The Betty Boop Musical (©Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman)
What was the one NYC lesson you learned shortly after arriving in the Big Apple?
Bergen- I remember when I moved back after living in Los Angeles for a few years; there was one thing I had to remind myself after walking around the city for a day…walk faster. People will yell at you if you don’t.
What are the best tips you can give a visitor?
Bergen- You can have an incredible experience in NYC on any budget. Two slices of pizza and a walk around the city will cost you $10 and give you enough memories to last a long time.
If you’re going out for a night on the town in New York City, where would you go?
Bergen- Pre-show dinner at The Polo Bar (the best burger and martini in town), followed by a Broadway show, and then post-show drinks at The Nines.
Where are your favorite spots to send family and friends when they visit?
Bergen- Hudson River Park, which runs from 59th Street all the way down to Battery Park, is a marvel. It’s an oasis that runs along the water for over 4 miles and is filled with outdoor space, restaurants, bars, a beach, free concerts, and much more. I’m so impressed with it. You can spend the entire day just walking the whole thing. Similarly, the High Line, and the walk along the water in Dumbo, Brooklyn, are both fantastic.
What is your favorite meal to enjoy in NYC, and where is it best?
Don’t listen to what anyone else says—the best pizza in NYC is by Made In New York or Little Italy. Look for either one of those chains (they’re all through the city) and you’ll have the best authentic NYC pizza.
What do you love best about New York City?
Bergen- The people. We’ve gotten through everything, and we still are.
Follow Erich on social media at @erichbergen!
Boop! The Betty Boop Musical (©Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman)
