From Fynsworth Alley chat (October 20, 2003)

(Why does Deborah think she hasn't been asked to do "Chicago" on Broadway yet?)

• "For a while they were casting the role of Velma a bit older. When I auditioned for it, I was playing Belle [laughs], which I think definitely gave them the wrong idea in the perception area. After doing it twice regionally, I am quite satisfied at no longer persuing [sic] the role on Broadway."

(What Broadway role is Deborah going to jump into next?)

• "My goal is to originate something, with the exception of Gypsy. I would love to do Gypsy with Patti LaPone as Mama Rose. I am also quite interested in playing Mary Poppins on the West End next year."

(Has Deborah been working on any workshops or readings of new shows?)

• "No. But, I have had interest in TV and film development and have been focusing on writing and developing more than reading at the moment. I think Mary Poppins would be a natural fit for me and I would love to revisit London. I have not performed there since doing Grease."

(What plans and hopes does Deborah have for the next 12 months?)

• "I would love to see this album continue to bridge the gap between the pop world and the theater world. I would like this album to reach both die hard theater fans and those who have resisted theater. My biggest goal is to tour with this album."

(What was it like getting to play both Sandy and Rizzo in "Grease"?)

• "I felt a bit schitzo at times. I feel I got to play the better role in each production. One featured Sandy and the other Rizzo so it was the best of both worlds."

(Any truth to the rumor that Deborah will be touring over the holidays?)

• "We do not have a holiday tour together as of yet, but I will be doing TV, radio, and in store promotions. Definitely in NY and LA and possibly in Dallas, as well as the cities that have yet to be confirmed."

(Any news on the "Skirts" musical?)

• "We're still in a holding pattern. Although, it did feel good to record the song "Sex" for this album. Working on a new musical is not something I take lightly, so I want to make sure I can really devote all of my time and effort to it. My collaborators feel the same."

(What is Deborah's favorite song on "Colored Lights"?)

• "It's so new that I'm pretty much into everything on it at the moment. Although, I would have to go with "I'd Rather Leave While I'm In Love" as one of the songs I feel most connected to."

(What kind of challenges does Deborah face in getting "cast" on stage, as opposed to getting "signed" to record?)

• "I feel that getting cast in theater is a bit less political and more about ability and simply being "right" for a role. One of the interesting things that people may not realize is that in theater sometimes having a "name" works for you and other times against you. Getting a record deal is sometimes more about style than substance."

(Are there any shows currently playing that Deborah would like to appear in?)

• "After doing Cabaret the list of shows I wanted to do got shorter because of how fulfilling playing Sally was."

(Does Deborah feel that the fans she has now are a lot of the same people who grew up listening to her earlier in her career?)

• "I think that a lot of the fans have taken the journey with me. And others may have disappeared for a while and came back on board through the roles I've done on Broadway."

(Will Deborah be performing at the Thanksgiving parade this year?)

• "No, this year I will be just having dinner with the family on Thanksgiving."

(Does Deborah have a multiple album deal with Fynsworth Alley, or is "Colored Lights" the only one?)

• "At the moment, it's just this one album."

(Is there a possibility that Deborah will be in the UK soon?)

• "No plans right now, but I really miss being there and hope to perform there in the near future. I did tape an appearance for a show called "Through the Key Hole" which should be airing in the UK this spring."

(What would Deborah like people to get out of listening to "Colored Lights"?)

• "I guess I just want each song to take them to a different place emotionally. I also want people to maybe take away the idea that there can be a different approach to doing theater material. I feel that this is a newer younger approach to a very traditional art form."

(What advice would Deborah give to people who want to do Broadway?)

• "Work on technique, train, and go on every audition possible to gain confidence and experience. Also, when auditioning for a role, go in with your own unique view point and take on the role as opposed to imitating."

(Would Deborah be interested in being in a cast for "Victor Victoria"?)

• "Maybe when I'm a bit older."

(What has been Deborah's most memorable moment on stage up to this point?)

• "Acting opposite Betty Buckley and playing Sally Bowles."

(Where does Deborah get all her energy and positive feeling from?)

• "The energy comes from loving what I do and through my constant interaction with my audience. Positive thinking, I have found, is a daily choice. I choose to always see the glass as half full. But don't think that doesn't take work!"

(How does Deborah feel about music downloading?)

• "I feel that snippets of songs should be used as a promotional tool, but the downloading of songs in their entirety with no financial compensation going to the people that create the music, has already begun to kill the music industry."

(Would Deborah like to play Amneris is "Aida"?)

• "That has been a discussion I have had with the folks at Disney. It is definitely a possibility in the future. I love that role also and have had such an amazing experience working with Disney on Beauty and the Beast. Amneris has a lot in common with us Long Island gals. lol"

(Would Deborah like to return to "Les Miserables" as another character?)

• "Although Les Miz has closed on Broadway, I would still love to play Fantine regionally or on tour."

(Does Deborah want to get married and have kids?)

• "I definitely want to get married and have kids, but it is something that I take too seriously to rush."

(Is Deborah thinking about coming to Europe to promote "Colored Lights"?)

• "I would love to! Start badgering the folks at Fynsworth Alley about that one!!!"

(How about a holiday album?)

• "Colored Lights can also refer to Christmas! HA HA HA. But seriously, wouldn't it look great under your tree! I do want to do a holiday album at some point in all seriousness."

(Would Deborah consider filling in Millie's shoes?)

• "I do really love that role, although that style of belting is truly not my forte. Sutton can hit those notes in her sleep. And I know first hand because I toured doing Grease with her! But, with a slight key change "anything is possible"!"

(Are radio stations interested in "Colored Lights"?)

• "We have a ton of interest in stations wanting to talk to me about it and help promote it. But, until we release a single to radio, we won't know for sure."

(Which song is Deborah leaning towards as a single?)

• "I feel "I'd Rather Leave While I'm In Love," "Blame It On The Summer Night" and "Sex" are all radio contenders. "I'd Rather Leave..." especially with "The Boy From Oz" having just opened."

(Who are some of Deborah's favorite artists at the moment?)

• "I just bought Clay Aiken's CD, Jason Mraz, Michael Buble, John Mayer... and Mya."

(How did Deborah get involved with "Beautiful Girl"? Does Deborah plan to record the songs herself?)

• "Marissa threw my name in the ring. I submitted songs, and they loved them! The producers of the film have suggested I record pop versions of the songs, and fans of my website have expressed the same feelings."

(Has Deborah considered doing a concept album of songs from "Skirts"?)

• "I have thought about it, but my priority was to do the "Colored Lights" album. I will think about the idea of a Skirts concept recording in the future."

(What made Deborah decide to record "Portrait In Loneliness" for the Japanese tribute CD?)

• "It had been awhile since I had done something specifically for the Japanese audience, and I really love the song."

(How does Deborah compare performing in theater to performing a pop concert?)

• "They are both exciting in different ways. Performing theater requires more focus and stillness on my part, whereas performing pop concerts uses more of my hyper active energy. I couldn't imagine life without either one of them!"

(Where's Deborah's first stop for promoting "Colored Lights"?)

• "I am doing a satellite radio tour on Oct. 29, 30 and 31. Check www.deborah-gibson.com and Fynsworth Alley's website for listings. Also, I will be appearing on WB 11 Morning News at 8:45 am tomorrow to talk about a charity event I am doing later tomorrow morning as well as to talk a bit about the album. For the in store appearance itinerary check both websites."

(Who would Deborah like to do a duet with?)

• "Of course there is my long standing wish to record with Billy Joel. But, I would also love to sing with John Mayer or Michael Buble. Queen Latifah would be fun too!"

(Has Deborah recorded something for VH1 in connection with "Colored Lights"?)

• "I am a part of the VH1 special airing on Thanksgiving Day, but it is not to specifically promote the album. They have expressed interest in doing more promotion for Colored Lights, so stay tuned!"

(How about a duet with Clay Aiken?)

• "Ooo, that would be fantastic. (Clay) Talk about a pop theater cross over duo! Maybe Clay and I could do AIDA together!"

(How does it feel to be a source of inspiration to others?)

• "Well...thanks for reminding me that I am an inspiration because some times on a day to day basis I forget. It feels really good just hearing that comment inspires me to do bigger and better things!"

(When is Deborah going to do movies?)

• "I have recently come very close to getting some amazing roles in feature films after signing with amazing new agents. Like anything else, it is a process, introducing myself to the film community. But, I am building my reputation as an actress now more than ever and I am "feeling it in my bones" that a feature film or TV show is in my near future."

(Would Deborah consider going on "The Ellen Show" to promote "Colored Lights"?)

• "My PR company has been working on getting me a spot on Ellen's show. Any and all emailing directly from you guys to Ellen's show may help secure me a spot! I am a fan of her show too!""

(Is Deborah computer savvy? Does she surf the web?)

• "I use my computer mainly for emailing friends, but mostly I am a face to face or phone person. I also use it for researching roles and occasionally shopping. LOL. Mainly books and music."

(Would Deborah like to visit Israel?)

• "OMG, I would LOVE to visit Israel! I have never been!"

(Does Deborah get comments such as Britney Spears would get: "You're hot, but your music sucks?")

• "I am happy to say that comments like that (Britney) pretty much stopped after high school! People are pretty respectful when they approach me these days, but back then I had to deal with a lot of what Britney deals with."

(What city does Deborah call home?)

• "I am officially bi-coastal back and forth between NY and LA, but NY will always be home!"

(Do people ever complain about the direction Deborah's music has gone in, or do they go with the flow?)

• "People pretty much go with the flow and respect the fact that I have a definite sense of where I am headed. Sure, people have their opinions, but if I listened to them all, I'd be running in 18 different directions."

(Does Deborah see herself in a TV sitcom?)

• "Yes, I definitely see a sitcom future for myself and have a lot of interest from networks at the moment!"

(Does the pressure of being an icon ever get too much?)

• "I put more pressure on myself than the industry could ever put on me. Any pressure or problems that come along with getting to do what I do publicly are what I call happy problems."

(Why does Deborah think she is such an idol to gay men?)

• "I have often pondered the gay thing myself. I have always felt a connection with the gay community and it may be because I am a very open person who has had to constantly fight uphill battles in my career. Much like people in the gay community have to fight uphill battles daily to gain acceptance."

(Any ambitions to host "Saturday Night Live"?)

• "I have always wanted to host SNL! And, I always feel I am one hit record, tv show, or film away from doing so! Did you guys catch Justin hosting? He rocked!"

(If Deborah could cover a whole CD by one person, who would it be?)

• "I'd have to say Billy Joel."

(Will Deborah be signing copies of "Colored Lights" for Fynsworth Alley purchasers?)

• "Sure, why not!"

(Who is Deborah's idol?)

• "In my personal life, my Mom. In the songwriting world, Billy Joel and Elton John. In the theater world, Liza Minelli. Whom I saw perform the song Colored Lights in the musical the Rink when I was 14 years old."

(Will Deborah make an appearance on "The Oprah Winfrey Show"?)

• "Oprah has not called as of yet! But, email her as well as Ellen! lol"

(What kind of battles has Deborah faced since becoming famous?)

• "Although I have always considered myself to be lucky for being able to live my dream, nothing good comes without a price. I have dealt with anxiety problems, stalkers, as well as dealing with cynics and critics on a daily basis. But, in 17 years none of that has derailed me. If anything it has all given me more of a backbone."

(What famous people would Deborah have over for dinner, dead or alive?)

• "I love this game! lol. Liberace would at the head of the table for sure! Judy and Liza... Barbra Streisand, Diane Lane and JFK Jr. and Sr."

(Will Deborah be at the Actors Fund honoring Kander and Ebb?)

• "I was asked to participate, but we are firming it up. Check my website for more details."

(What is Deborah's favorite song that she has written?)

• "One is "We Could Be Together" an oldie but still a fave. Another is "Think With Your Heart.""

(Is there anyone that Deborah has met that has been a dream come true for her?)

• "Elton was a dream come true, because he is as nice and gracious as I'd hoped he'd be. So was Michael Jackson. I would still like to meet Barbra Streisand."

(When does Deborah think she'll tour again?)

• "Hopefully I'll be able to tour next year."

(Does Deborah plan to record a spiritual album at any time?)

• "I would like to always incorporate inspirational themes into my music. But, don't have any plans right now to do a spiritually themed album."

(Does Deborah still own Liberace's piano? Does she also own the candleabras?)

• "Yes, and I will own it FOREVER!! No, but I do have an 8X10 of Liberace standing by the piano that came with the piano. lol"

(Is Deborah in love now?)

• "Many years into a relationship, I sure hope so."

From Ostrich Ink (Exact date unknown)

(Do you still have a vial of Electric Youth perfume?)

• "I do."

(What would you say it smelled like?)

• "As Julia Roberts said on Letterman, "smells fruity." Not your Grandma's perfume!"

(Was it hard for you to see all those stage moms at the American Juniors auditions, and did you just want to smack them?)

• "They pretty much weeded them out before I got there. I wish there were some around. I would have gladly put them in their place!"

(That's what the show was missing! Honestly, "One Step Closer To Heaven?" You totally could have written a better first single for the American Juniors.)

• "Don't get me started....how many times did I pitch "Electric Youth?""

(Would you have tried out for American Juniors or American Idol when you were that age, even if it meant that you would have to sing other people's songs?)

• "Most definitely! I wish I had an opportunity like that! Although, if I did, I might have developed a different work ethic, because fame comes way too quickly for those kids. It's a bit deceiving for them to think the biz works that way all the time."

(About Kelly Clarkson you said, "Being crowned the American Idol is going to be a double-edged sword. It may carry a stigma, because she's manufactured. She's just gotta speak up and make sure she loves what she's singing, because she's gonna have to sing those songs 8 million times." Have you ever spoken with Kelly, and how do you think her career is going so far?)

• "She is a doll. She is overwhelmed, but handling it well. I thought her second single showed that she has her own identity."

(So if you were sixteen today and just starting out your music career, how do you think you would have done it differently?)

• "I would be a cross between Avril, Mandy, Vanessa, and Britney. Or maybe closest to Beyoncé...she is an all-around entertainer. I would've had to sex it up a bit more, be a bit more image-conscious, but I still would have had my singer/songwriter/pianist moments."

(How did older musicians react to you as a 16-year-old kid producing on your first album?)

• "I had a lot to prove. Looking at it now, it seems strange. But then it was a natural thing for me. It wasn't until I'd say things like "try a mj 7th there" or dictate notes I wanted for a guitar run - things like that - that I gained their trust. But I eventually did. I had been producing for four years...every day in the studio. My confidence showed."

(Out of The Blue was delivered in just six weeks. Does that blow your mind now? How much time do you like to spend developing an album?)

• "I have spent anywhere from two weeks to a year. It all works. Quick equals spontaneity, so sometimes the energy is better on an album that is produced quickly. It isn't brain surgery!"

(So do you think that the current wave of teen pop is too overproduced?)

• "I am a sucker for slick teen pop. No one would accept Hilary trying to be Sheryl Crow...maybe later, but not right now."

(I know at the beginning of your career you got a lot of flak for writing love songs when you were at an age deemed "too young to understand." Now that you're older, what do you think of that?)

• "What teens think of love should be valid. High school kids spend most of their time thinking about it. I do think you can only scratch the surface, though. Sometimes I now expound on thoughts in songs and other times I purposely keep it simple. "Lost in Your Eyes" is still played at weddings because its sentiment is simple and pure."

(Was it hard for you to be a pop artist when music started heading in the grunge direction? Did the label try to push you in a direction you didn't want to go in?)

• "At a certain point, I could not turn the label around to my way of thinking. I saw the future of pop people crossing over into other genres, but they didn't want to take the time to groom me to be Bette or Babs. They wanted me to be Mariah. I tried it and knew it wouldn't work, but it stretched my voice and my songwriting ability, so it wasn't all bad."

(When your "Anything is Possible" video came out, its racy tone was scandalous.)

• "So right. I got hate mail for wearing a black miniskirt."

(If it were to be released today, though, no one would bat an eye. What do you think that says about today's music scene?)

• "I don't think I would have survived today. I would much rather go to a vocal lesson than the gym. But, I think if Brit really wants to shock us, she'd spend time training her voice, like Madonna did for Evita, and come out singing like a diva. She has the goods. She has let them slip, however, by prioritizing her workouts over her singing. It wears thin. I love her though...she is a great entertainer, I just think she needs a bit of a reality check."

(Where is the famous black hat?)

• "The hat is in storage."

(Do you look back at some of those costumes and laugh?)

• "No, I'm proud of the "anti high fashion" statement I made!"

(What was the first love song you wrote for someone?)

• "I wrote a song for a boy named Pete in the 10th grade called "Love You More Than Yesterday." He loved it, walked around school playing it in his Walkman."

(Stevie Nicks says that her advice to people who want to write songs is to keep a journal because it helps a person get their feelings out in a coherent way, and because it can be a good place for ideas. What sort of advice would you give to aspiring songwriters, and would you agree with what she says?)

• "Yes, write things down and refer back to them later. But my main advice is find your own path, your own way of writing, demo-ing, and reaching out to business people. There is no map. Network and use your gut."

(Are you influenced by any new artists? How does it feel to know many were influenced by you?)

• "I love it when people come up and say 'you inspired me'...it happens with pop people and theater people. It is FAB! LOVE John Mayer, Jason Mraz, Micheal Buble, Pink, the new Cher... "

(How was Hollywood Squares? Hot or not, didn't you just want to smack Ty Pennington?)

• "Hot and sweet!"

(You and your "Momager" made a big deal about having a normal childhood, a normal life. But some things fell by the wayside - like only getting a checkbook a year ago. Are there other things you're catching up on now?)

• "I am a late bloomer. I am finally comfy with being a boss. They are now "my peeps" - biz manager, assistant, etc. Back in the day, I didn't want to know about the business end...only the Reader's Digest version. Now, I want to know EVERYTHING. My mom constantly has to adjust to my ever changing moods. She is amazing!"

(You have an album of Broadway tunes, Colored Lights, streeting at the end of October. Any plans to return to the Great White Way? When are we going to get to see the musical you've been writing?)

• "Creating a new musical takes years of clearing your schedule, and my collaborators and I work constantly. It will happen when the time is right. I want to originate a role on Broadway, or play Liza in The Boy From Oz. I came down to the wire on that one, much like Les Miz at 16."

(How do you approach your career differently now, as opposed to ten to fifteen years ago?)

• "I have a sense of humor and I let go of trying to control things I can't, like perception and politics. I like being a grown-up!"

(You've set and achieved many goals for yourself. So when are you gonna get that Grammy?)

• "Hopefully with this Broadway album. Even a nom would be nice. Is Babs' Movie Album in the same category? Just my luck, it will be. Oh well, next one!"

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