Nobody knows New York City like a local. Some of the city’s notable locals are also the stars of Broadway. We talked with Pepe Muñoz, who stars as Santiago in Moulin Rouge! The Musical, about his favorite places in New York City.
Moulin Rouge! The Musical (©Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade)
Tell us about your current Broadway role!
Muñoz- I am currently playing the role of Santiago in the Broadway production of Moulin Rouge! The Musical. The character is from Argentina, and he is one of the show’s three Bohemians, who embody the Bohemian ideals of Truth, Beauty, Freedom, and Love. Santiago is the choreographer of the show within the show and lives life at 100% at all times.
How did you get your start in performing, and in what other shows have you performed?
Muñoz- I had a wonderful teacher back in high school in Spain, Ana, who taught me the love for performing arts and always saw something in me. After a few years of training, I joined the Spanish company of Cats, then I was a swing in Cats and Dirty Dancing in Germany. I also performed in the ensemble of the West End Production of the musical CHICAGO and in Cirque du Soleil’s Zumanity in Las Vegas. Prior to joining the Broadway company, I was a swing in the Moulin Rouge! US National Tour for a year and a half.
How would you describe your show to someone completely unfamiliar with Broadway?
Muñoz- Oh! Even if you have never experienced a Broadway show before, at its core, Moulin Rouge! is a story about LOVE, and we all can relate! Plus, there are spectacular costumes, lavish immersive sets, great musical hits, and a cast that’s to die for. There’s so much talent on that stage every night! I would say, don’t think twice, and come spend an evening with us and let us transport you to 1900’s Paris for the evening.
What do you love most about the show you are performing in right now?
Muñoz- Everybody is welcome: different sizes, shapes, colors and backgrounds. As the Moulin Rouge in Paris did back in the day, it does the same now—everybody belongs. Within the music, dance and spectacle of it all, we find a place for acceptance and understanding for one another. You can’t beat that!
What was the one NYC lesson you learned shortly after arriving in the Big Apple?
Muñoz- boy! So many! Walk fast! Even if you think you are walking fast … go faster! Hahaha
Moulin Rouge! The Musical (©Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade)
What are the best tips you can give a visitor?
Muñoz- Don’t plan every second of your visit! New York is full of beautiful hidden secrets that you’ll only find if you get lost in the best possible way and stumble upon them.
If you’re going out for a night on the town in New York City, where would you go?
Muñoz- To see a show. When I’m not performing, it is my favorite thing to do!
Where are your favorite spots to send family and friends when they visit?
Muñoz- I love taking friends and family to the Upper West Side and walking towards Central Park. I also love SoHo, and I’m a big fan of The High Line and Little Island. It’s a great view of Downtown Manhattan down there. Top of the Rock in Rockefeller Center is also one of my favorite spots to see the city from above.
What is your favorite meal to enjoy in NYC, and where is it best?
Muñoz- ROKC in Harlem on Broadway and 141st!
What do you love best about New York City?
Muñoz- No matter how long you have lived here or how much you plan your day, the moment you leave your apartment in the morning, you never know where the day will take you! I love being surprised, and I’m constantly amazed by the endless possibilities and adventures this city (and its people) has to offer!
Follow Pepe on social media at @p.e.p.e.munoz!
