The CultureMap Interview
New dad, future movie star? Ex Idol Constantine Maroulis set to rock Houstonwith big dreams
Constantine Maroulis in "Rock of Ages"Photo by Joan Marcus
Constantine Maroulis on "American Idol"
Constantine Maroulis
Boy meets girl. Girl meets boy. They fall in love and they sing '80s hard rock.
He's a big dreamer, she's a small-town girl. Big hair, bodacious and totally awesome tunes make this an ideal fit for American Idol Season Four contestant, Constantine Maroulis.
Maroulis is playing Drew Bowie in Rock of Ages, which starts a Houston run Tuesday night at the Hobby Center in a Theater Under the Stars (TUTS) presentation.CultureMap caught with the busy rocker prior to his visit.
CultureMap: I remember watching your live performance of "Bohemian Rhapsody" on Season Four of American Idol and I was hooked. I think it defined your hard, bad-ass approach to rock.
Recently, we saw you on American Idol with a softer of version of you, performing "Unchained Melody."
Though American Idol gave you a push, you are a trained musician, having attended the Boston Conservatory. How much do you credit American Idol in helping you propel your career?
Constantine Maroulis: These experiences were a part of my whole process, part of what makes me today and the artist that I am. American Idol was a tremendous adventure where I learned about myself, about the business, about being a complete performer and work under those type of circumstances, meaning, on the greatest facilities with a lot at stake. It was an amazing learning experience, one that I draw from to help me excel in my future.
My training at the Boston Conservatory? It's what worked for me. It's not what works for everyone. Some people can do this at a very young age, go to New York and find work. Everyone has their own path. But I do believe in higher education.
It was an honor to return recently to American Idol after I had experienced success in the world of entertainment. They invite those that have had a positive experience. It was great to be recognized and the opportunity to come back on the show was huge. I had a long stretch without doing a performance like that because of Rock of Ages, so it was very exciting to do it.
It's different to perform there (American Idol stage). It's a cavernous space, if you are not used to it, the sound can really escape you and you run the risk of getting off the song easily. It's quite daunting, so was excited to learn that it was received well.
CultureMap: Rock of Ages seems like it was written for you, showcasing '80s metal, Bon Jovi, Pat Benater, Twisted Sister, Steve Perry and others. You play Drew Bowie, a musician that comes of age, finding success and maturing through music. It appears to be your story.
Maroulis: The great part about creating a role from the very beginning is that I have quite a say in how the character develops. It gave me an opportunity to inject myself and my life experiences into the role. It was wonderful to be able to work with a young writer and director along with other amazing performers and creators.
I injected a lot of myself into Drew. He had to leave something behind, a crappy job and bust his ass. The girls didn't pay him any attention because he wasn't a rock star. At one point, he meets the girl who changes everything about his world. I have had that experience.
CultureMap: You were nominated for a Tony for Best Performance by a Leading Actor for the role. Gosh, what did it feel like to receive such an honor?
Maroulis: I felt like I did win. The committee obviously recognized the work. It's the highest honor and something I dreamed about as a kid. I always wanted this and I plan on doing more good work.
CultureMap: You've dabbled with television already. You had a run at The Bold and the Beautiful, served as American Idol expert for Good Day New York and almost launched a sitcom. Rock of Ages, the movie, is coming in 2012, though Diego Boneta will be playing Drew. Is movie stardom next for you?
Maroulis: The thought of being in the movies has always been a dream of mine. Right now, I am trying to concentrate on doing my best in Rock of Ages, though it's very exciting to think that the movie is in the works. It's a testament to the hard work that the cast has put forth.
CultureMap: You are a new father! With such a hectic schedule, how do you balance between work, play and family responsibilities?
Maroulis: Malena James Reed-Maroulis was born December 23. She is amazing, my greatest gift. She changes everyday and it's cool to see. It's difficult to be away from her, but that's part of the lifestyle of a traveling musician, a sacrifice you make.
I am looking forward to returning to Houston. Last time I was there, I did Rent. It's really a great city.
Watch Constantine Maroulis and Amy Spanger sing "High Enough" at the 2009 Tony Awards Nomination concert:
Theater Under the Stars (TUTS) presents Rock of Ages from May 31 to June 12 at the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets start at $24. VIP stage-side seating with food service available. Pre-party at Saint Arnold Brewery on Thursday night.
For more information, click here. To purchase tickets, click here.
