We'll Miss You, Yitzhak! Hedwig and the Angry Inch Tony Winner Lena Hall Looks Back on Her Year in Drag

In the corporate world, employees leaving a job are often asked to sit through an “exit interview” with HR about their time at the company. That concept doesn’t exist for Broadway performers, but we love checking in with stars as they finish up a successful run. Lena Hall will conclude her Tony-winning turn as aspiring drag queen Yitzhak in Hedwig and the Angry Inch on April 4, but before she says farewell, she’s sharing the year she spent "shining like the brightest star."

How did you feel when you first got this job?
I felt amazing, of course. It was a part I had really wanted, and I knew I would do an awesome job at it. I loved the show previously and was so excited to get to work with Stephen Trask and John Cameron Mitchell, as well as Michael Mayer and Neil Patrick Harris.

How do you feel now that you’re leaving?
Ever since they announced my replacement [Rebecca Naomi Jones], I’ve been depressed (not because of her, but because it made it real). I love this show and have loved this part so much, so inside there is an overwhelming feeling of sadness, but I must move on and allow my body to repair itself from the damage playing a man has done to it.

What are three words you would use to describe your experience at this job?
Unbelievably life changing.

What was the easiest thing about the job?
The people. Everyone has been an utter joy to be with and work with.

What was the hardest thing?
Playing a dude.

What was the highlight of your time at this job?
The whole year has been incredible, but nothing can beat Tony morning/afternoon/night/late night.

What skills do you think are required for future job applicants?
Tambourine and shaker, headbanging, onstage sound technician and props master.

What advice would you give to future employees in your job position?
Listen to your body and get physical therapy when you need it ASAP.

How do you think you’ve grown?
I’m a better actor and listener. I’m good at playing percussive instruments while handling flailing mic cords and heavy mic stands. Physically, my body shrank, and from playing a man, my body has become flat as a board—but my head is now massive!  (That’s a little joke.)

Why are you leaving?
My body needs time to repair itself from the physical damage I have done to it. I put 100% of my soul and energy on that stage every night. The wear and tear of all of that headbanging, lifting really heaving mic stands and props and the posture have taken a huge toll. I also see no better way than to finish with the writer himself: John Cameron Mitchell. Though I’m sure I will be seeing this gang again in the near future.

What will you miss the most?
The people. From the crew to the band to the creatives to the fans and everyone in between. This show seems to bring truly amazing people together.