In a captivating episode of The Jay Franze Show, Broadway veteran and recording artist Ann Kittredge takes listeners on a journey through her fascinating career in theater and music. What emerges is a masterclass in authentic performance, creative persistence, and the courage to reinvent oneself artistically after life’s inevitable detours.
Kittredge establishes early in the conversation that her approach to music is fundamentally driven by storytelling rather than showcasing her vocal abilities. “What really intrigues me is what does this song need?” she explains, detailing how her album “Romantic Notions” spans genres from country and folk to jazz and swing. This versatility isn’t random – it’s purposeful, allowing her to serve each song’s unique narrative requirements. As she puts it, “I don’t ever want it to be about my voice. I always want it to be about the storytelling.” This philosophy, firmly rooted in her theatrical background, illuminates why Kittredge refuses to be confined to any single vocal style or genre.
The conversation delves into the fascinating distinction between performing as a character versus performing as oneself. Kittredge makes the compelling observation that “it’s harder to be yourself than a character.” Drawing from her extensive theater experience, she explains how performers often find parts that unconsciously force them to confront aspects of their personality requiring attention or growth. The vulnerability required to perform without the safety net of a character represents both a challenge and an artistic breakthrough. This authenticity becomes particularly evident in her solo shows, where she must remain present and adaptable, responding to audience reactions rather than rigidly following prepared dialogue.
One of the most compelling stories Kittredge shares involves her determination to include Bob Dylan’s “Mr. Tambourine Man” on her album against her team’s resistance. Over four months, she repeatedly brought the song back to her team, ultimately declaring that she “had to do this song” even if it meant finding new collaborators. This artistic stand-off exemplifies her creative conviction and willingness to take personal risks. The song ultimately became one of the most requested from the album, validating her artistic intuition and demonstrating how creative friction can lead to breakthrough moments. As she reflects, “It’s courage to really believe, sometimes, even when the people that you respect the most think you’re crazy.”
Perhaps most inspirational is Kittredge’s candid discussion about her career path, which included a ten-year hiatus to raise her children. When she returned to performing, she faced significant confidence challenges, admitting, “At first I knew I wasn’t good. I was rusty, I was trying something I’d never done before.” Yet she persisted through that discomfort, recognizing that growth required pushing through initial inadequacy. Her journey from Broadway performer to recording artist showcases the resilience needed in creative careers, particularly when navigating life’s complexities and personal priorities. This vulnerability and honesty make her current success – including over a million streams on Spotify – all the more meaningful.
Throughout the interview, Kittredge returns to themes of artistic integrity, personal growth, and the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive, honest collaborators. Her experiences offer valuable insights for anyone pursuing creative endeavors, particularly those who may have stepped away from their passions and wonder if returning is possible. Kittredge’s story definitively answers: yes, with courage, persistence, and willingness to be vulnerable, creative reinvention is always possible – sometimes leading to unexpectedly beautiful new chapters.