Ridge resident is the next Idol

By Matt Lysiak
for The Brooklyn Paper

A local actress may have what it takes to be America’s next American idol, or at least cash in a little on Aiken-mania.

Bay Ridge’s Dawn Barry-Hansen recently landed a role in the new Off-Broadway musical. “Idol: The Musical.”

The show, playing at the 45th Street Theater in Manhattan, is a satire of the television show “American Idol” and, particularly, the worship of Clay Aiken, one of the its more famous finalists).

Barry-Hansen will play the role of a dance teacher, which isn’t much of a stretch considering her experience.

“When I read the role I felt like it was written for me,” said Barry-Hansen. “I have choreographed shows in Bay Ridge since 1975, so my role is quite true to life.”

This is hardly Barry-Hansen’s first time in the limelight.

She practiced her craft as long time member of Bay Ridge Narrows Community Theater, where her many talents were hard to miss.

“Dawn is really a great talent,” said Narrows Community Theater Vice President Ann Gubiotti. “Not only can she act, but she is also a talented dancer, chorographer, and she also recently made her directorial debut at the Narrows Theater.”

The curtain opens to the public on Aug. 12 and is billed as “a satirical musical comedy that focuses on the outrageous and delusional fan base of the hit television show,” by the musical’s web site.

“It is really a great show with a very talented cast,” said Barry-Hansen. “I must admit I do watch American Idol, but this show is really for everyone.”

The 45th Street Theatre is located in Manhattan at 354 West 45th St., between Eighth and Ninth Avenues. Tickets, priced $60 (general admission) and $25 (students), are available by calling (212) 868-4444 or by visiting www.smarttix.com.