January 11, 2023
The Products that 'Preludes'' Anthony Pires, Jr. Can't Perform Without
Christopher Ehlers READ TIME: 9 MIN.
Currently appearing in The Lyric Stage Company of Boston's production of Dave Malloy's musical "Preludes," Anthony Pires, Jr. is one of Boston's greatest musical talents. From his Elliot Norton Award-winning performance in last season's "Passing Strange" to his recent dazzling turn in "Ain't Misbehavin'", things seem to be getting better and better for the triple threat. In "Preludes," a musical fantasia about Rachmaninoff's struggle to rediscover his genius, Pires plays Feodor Chaliapin, a dear friend and colleague to the frustrated composer.
Here are the things that get him through a full week of performances:
Gemini Podcast
"I love to start my day off with listening to my horoscope. Who doesn't, right? I'm a Gemini and I'm a social butterfly. I like to be in the know if I can. So every morning I listen to the Gemini Podcast on Spotify to get a sense on how I should approach my day. #loveandlight" Spotify.
Hann Facial Steamer Professional Sinus Steamer
"Thank you to my friend Lovely Hoffman, I was introduced to a facial steamer to help clear the mucus and to just pamper myself to a personal facial sauna. This helps me tremendously during shows, especially in the winter." $25, Amazon.
Beyoncé's 'Renaissance'
"To help me get in the mood or in the zone for a show, I love to start off with listening to instrumental jazz to get the mind, body, and soul centered. Then once the show day is over, I end it with the Queen Bee, Beyonce. "Energy" is currently my favorite song." Streaming on Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon, or Tidal.
A Fresh Cut & Creme of Nature's Argan Oil Treatment
"Every two weeks I try to treat myself to a haircut and lineup – gotta make sure the smile matches the looks;) But I like to have a grooming routine to keep me relaxed, and it gives me a reason to channel my Inner Tyra Banks." $12, Amazon.
Twizzlers & Gummy Bears
"I'm still a kid at heart. Something that keeps me going and gets me through a full week of shows is a large pack of Twizzlers or Gummy Bears. Any time I have a break in between scenes, you will be sure to see me in my station eating."
My Vocal Mist
"At times, when I feel that my voice is getting a little tired or hoarse, I use my vocal mist nebulizer to sooth the voice and to make sure I protect the gift." My Vocal Mist.
Skincare
"Before and after a show, I try to wash my face using CeraVe to make sure the skin is fresh and clean. After makeup use, I use CeraVe makeup wipes for sensitive skin. To keep my skin smooth and hydrated, I use Cocoa Butter Vaseline."
Shenanigans with the Cast
"The most important thing for me in a show outside of making sure I know my lines and lyrics is sustaining the connections with my fellow cast members. After a few weeks of rehearsal and shows, you start finding new things about the show and start making inside jokes. I enjoy and laugh every day with this talented cast of 'Preludes.'"
Runs through February 5 at The Lyric Stage Company of Boston, 140 Clarendon Street. Tickets available here.