Will Nunziata, a writer, director and creator of theater, television and film, got his start as a singer and has lived in Hell's Kitchen for over 10 years, six of those years with his husband Joseph. This is Will's West Side Story.
So what's the New York story? Were you born here or did you just come here?
I was born at St. Vincent Hospital on Staten Island, lived in Brooklyn for six months, and basically grew up in Pelham Manor, New York (30 minutes north of New York City). I have lived in the Hell's Kitchen area for over 10 years. For six of those years, she has lived with her husband Joseph.
What was your first job? What are you doing now?
As a child, my first job was singing jingles. I then continued to perform professionally for about 25 years with my twin brother Anthony (an accomplished singer-songwriter) before moving on to my current job directing, writing, and producing for theater, television, and film media. I moved.
What is your favorite moment (or moments) in New York so far?
There are three! Professionally: As a performer, co-headlining New York with His Pops at Carnegie Hall in December 2016 was a dream come true.As a director, he will make his off-Broadway debut this year with an exciting and moving original show White Rose: The Musical. Personally: March 23, 2019 — The day she married her best friend Joseph Amodeo in a special ceremony and reception at 54 Below.
Why do you love Hell's Kitchen?
Hell's Kitchen has everything that I think makes New York the greatest city in the world: Broadway, great restaurants, incredible coffee shops, great shopping, great delis, and a wonderfully diverse community all within a 20 radius. Something to celebrate within a block. !
What is your superpower or hidden talent?
Ellen Green's singing is very memorable. somewhere green from little shop of horrors. At least that's what I was told!
What else should we know about you?
I love talent. Witnessing the incredible richness of artistry in this city every day is the most exciting thing in the world.
Will's Favorite Hell's Kitchen Place
Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts — Lincoln Center Plaza
I don't know if this qualifies as Hell's Kitchen, but I often take “artist walks” by myself to Lincoln Center. Walk around the square to clear your head, head to the Performing Arts Library to research your next project, or catch a show at Vivian Beaumont, Mitzi's New House, Opera, Ballet, etc. We've got it all. .
dots cafe — 515 West 52nd Street (bw 10/11th Ave)
I love going here for coffee meetings, Zoom calls, or just for a great crunchy garden salad or mocha latte.
54 Below — 254 West 54th Street (off 8th Avenue and Broadway)
When I was a performer, I had the opportunity to perform at 54 Below several times. Now I love going to my friends' shows! Also, when I started my career as a director, I produced and performed many theater concerts here. But most importantly, 54 and under is where I got married!
Ardesia Wine Bar — 510 West 52nd Street (bw 10/11th Ave)
Run by the same people as Dot's Cafe, this wine bar has a great atmosphere, friendly staff, and some of the best wines in the city.
Joe Allen — 326 West 46th Street (bw 8/9th Ave)
When you step inside, you can “feel” the history of the entertainment industry. It's also a great place to meet up with showbiz friends you haven't seen in a while. I often take a seat at the bar, catch up with the bartender, and enjoy the best burger in town (Joe Allen Burger, make sure the fries are crispy!).
Ariba Ariba — 762 9th Avenue (corner of W51st St)
The combination of endless margarita and food options and a convivial atmosphere is always my go-to when I want to (quote quote) “escape” into the world. sweet charity) We had fun, laughed, and had a great time. My favorite day is Taco Tuesday when all tacos and empanadas are 25% off.
westway diner — 614 9th Avenue (West 43rd/44th Street)
I consider this place my place. cheers — where everyone knows your name! I often have business meetings here because it's very relaxed and the wait staff and owners are very friendly. Also, I hate breakfast all day long, so every time I come in, day or night, they already know I'll probably get chocolate chip pancakes and a big iced coffee.
Bee — 403 W43rd Street (bw 9/10th Ave)
We love that when you walk through Bea's front door, you're in another world: a brick-walled underground facility with its own private courtyard. Specialty drinks and small plates – green pasta is my favorite. Bee is perfect for a pre- or post-show “vacation” with her friends visiting from out of town, or a date night with her husband.
Mama's Kitchen & Bar — 701 9th Avenue (corner of W48th St)
It's like stepping into a 1950s cartoon. My favorite is Bedrock Pancakes. Yes, you heard that right – Fruity Pebbles pancakes layered with berries, berry maple syrup, and whipped cream.
VV Bar — 325 W 51st Street (bw 8/9th Ave)
Save the best for last! When I returned to New York after spending four years at Boston University, the then-Vice Versa Restaurant became my “second home.” I eat there at least three times a week and it was my most frequented restaurant until the pandemic hit. Vice Versa Restaurant, owned by my dear friends Franco and Stefano, is now VV Bar. We're so excited for the Hell's Kitchen community that Vice Versa is back with new and exciting properties.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
of course! The two main theater productions I am involved in are: Figaro: Original Musical and White Rose: The Musical. Both musicals have just released their world premiere recordings. Figaro: Original Musical More information on both can be found on their respective websites: figaromusical.com and whiterosethemusical.com.
You can follow Will's Instagram is @willnunzofficial. If you know someone who would make a great West Side Story (or would like to nominate one yourself), please fill out this form at w42st.info/WSSminations.
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