An Interview with Actress, Susan Anton

Fabulous 70's & 80's demi-goddess Susan Anton returns to Las Vegas this winter for a plum role in the award winning stage production of HAIRSPRAY. Anton reminisces with us about her grounded up bringing, adventurous past, and giggle-fits with David Hasselhoff.

You got started as an action/adventure star, right?
When I was on Stop Susan Williams in the 70s, it was a great time for women in action roles on television. Lindsay Wagner carved that out, along with Charlie's Angles and Lynda Carter (Wonder Woman), and Angie Dickinson with Police Woman, I was glad to be part of it. It was a terrribly good time for female roles, and I had so much fun with the project.

I saw some clips of Stop Susan Willaims on Youtube!
Isn't that amazing? Youtube is incredible. Everytime I do a new production, all the castmembers who are in their 20s all Youtube me. I am amazed what is on that site.

When did you get involved in music?
Oh always, I'm a singer at heart. I began performing early, and while I adore acting, I love the combination of singing and acting. That is why I am drawn to musical theater, it serves all my needs.

So did you start as early as high school or was it college? What developed your musical talent?
I wasn't a great mathematician or scientist. I am a creative spirit. If it hadn't been for musical programs and outlets in my school, I don't know what I would have done...Music education made me what I am today. I have a brother who is a history teacher, and I understand the budget cutbacks in schools. I understand that programs are all being dwindled down, and you want to protect the core stuff. But it is important we find a way to raise funds for schools to have music and creative programs.

You had a very non-showbiz childhood.
Yes, I had a very rooted upbringing, growing up on an apple ranch in California. I was raised in nature. I changed irrigation pipes, raised a dog, rode horses. It was a very organic connection to the nuts and bolts of life. I got my hands dirty and mud underneath my nails. It was not glamorous, it was very real and wonderful. Showbiz is fantastic, but it is all made up.

Speaking of all made up, let's talk about Baywatch...
Talk about an easy gig, I got up at 5 in the morning, drive to the beach. watch the sun come up, do a few scenes, go home. That was my work day. I got paid to go to the beach! Who would ever consider turning down a gig like that? I was a lucky one, didn't even have to put on a bathing suit. It was a good production to be involved in, very low stress. The cast was hysterical, especially David Hassleoff, he was a riot. People don't know how funny he is!

Music Ed: I wasn't a great mathematician or scientist. I am a creative spirit. Music education made me what I am today. I have a brother who is a history teacher, and I understand the budget cutbacks in schools. But it is important we find a way to raise funds for schools to have music and creative programs.

And now, HAIRSPRAY?
Yes! I am ecstatic, what a show! It is a huge honor to be part of this production,and to be back in Vegas at the Luxor. I'm playing the bitch, so itis going to be alot of fun for me every night.

It's nice to play the bitch sometimes, isn't it?
Absolutely!

susananton.com