Dentistry and performance: creating characters from a smile

Smiling woman with movie clapper [Curtain rises.]
[Spotlight, stage center]
[Loupes flicker on and illuminate an ensemble of teeth]

This is Broadway, and these aren’t just any teeth. What if all the actors playing the revolutionaries in Les Misérables had bleached, orthodontically straightened teeth? Would you believe Dracula to be a successful vampire if he were a severe bruxer? An actor’s presentation on stage conveys their character’s story to the audience. Similarly, the appearance of the teeth can speak volumes about its owner’s experiences.

[Enter stage right: theatrical dentistry]

Lessons to learn from Broadway musical “Hamilton”

If you’ve been watching late night talk shows or national news programs like “60 Minutes,” you may have heard about the Broadway phenomenon, “Hamilton.” The production is written by and stars musical-genius Lin Manuel Miranda and has been grabbing headlines across the nation. I had the opportunity to see this musical in New York City this past summer and have learned a lot about one of our nation’s founding fathers in a new, more engaging way. If you haven’t heard about “Hamilton” I encourage you to at least listen to the Original Broadway Cast album, which has a hip-hop, R&B, and even Beatle-esque style influence.

Hamilton’s history would take volumes to examine, but a few lessons worth noting can be learned from this man’s resilient, unforgiving, go-getter attitude. Read on for my top tips adapted from this musical…