We had the good fortune of connecting with Elizabeth McBryde and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Elizabeth, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I chose an artistic career because it gives me the most joy, sense of self and is deeply fulfilling. My happiest days are when I’m working on a project and collaborating with other artists.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am the family weirdo. I’ve always loved being in plays, singing along and making up words to songs and raiding anyone’s costume collection. I tend to see life in an abstract and metaphorical way, relating one thing to another and seeing the world through different lenses. These traits made me well suited to become a Young American and perform variety shows in their music outreach tours. YA’s gave me a broader sense and love of different cultures, that has expanded my understanding and curiosity of people. Being a native Michigander, I became immersed in the automotive world and found a stage as an Emcee and Spokesperson for various brands. My love of theater has since planted me in NYC, the capital of individuality and in my eyes a place with a bunch of fellow weirdos! I’ve recently started a singer songwriter, alternative/folk band named Human + Human, and sing in open mics around the city. I am also producing a short film titled “Control,” with a company called Alpha Stella Productions. I love creating all types of characters and expressing myself through acting, singing, modeling and recently, producing. I believe there is so much you can give and receive from the world through these forms of story telling. It makes me feel invigorated when I am collaborating with other artists and have found that I truly enjoy learning from those around me. To be a deeply fulfilled and working artist is my life-long goal.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
One of my favorite places in the city is the Cloisters. It’s located in Fort Tryon Park and has a Metropolitan Museum of Art, nestled in the middle of it. We’d spend the day walking in the park, taking in the museum and then end it at the Fort Tryon Public House bar and grille.

The next day we’d rent bikes and ride them through Central Park then make our way to Harlem Public and the Chipped Tea Cup for food, drinks or coffee. Even if you’re a carnivore I’d definitely bring anyone to Seasoned Vegan in Harlem, their vegan soul food is something that everyone can enjoy.

A broadway show is a New York City MUST and will hopefully be up and running sooner than later. Otherwise, there are tons of street performances, theater in the park and live singing indoors and outdoors.

For an active afternoon, I’d take someone to a dance class at Steps on Broadway and then go for a long walk along East River. We’d go for a ride on the tram to Roosevelt Island and also take the ferry around Manhattan, then grab sushi from one of a many sushi places available.

I’d love to take someone thrifting in East Village then go to Big Gay Ice Cream and eat it in Washington Square Park. I also highly suggest finding a Drag Brunch and indulging in a mimosa morning.

Another fun thing to do is walk across the Brooklyn Bridge and get a bubble tea in China town. Then take a ferry to Governor’s Island, rent a tandem bike and pack a picnic. Or enjoy some fresh oysters and take in the view of the city.

The Museum of Natural History is absolutely delightful and so is the Museum of Modern Art. That’s a whole day within itself!

For a day of whimsey and delight I’d take someone to Serendipity for a frozen hot chocolate. Hop down to The Dead Rabbit near Battery Park then to The Cauldron NYC Magical Pub on Stone Street. We’d make the journey down to Coney Island for the boardwalk, beach, a mermaid pilsner and the Freak Show. The trip would end with a night of dancing at the House of Yes in Brooklyn. Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Three years ago I had an overwhelming urge to find a mentor. I asked my acting teacher if he knew of anyone who might be a good fit for me and he introduced me to, Sandra Bargman. She is an NYC based actor, singer and interfaith minister. She has been a guiding light in my life, in countless ways. For one thing, she has more talent in her pinky than most people have in their whole body, and walks through the world with humble strength and a keen sense of knowing exactly who she is. She is bold, speaks up for what she believes in, has a uniquely fabulous sense of style and is hilarious! She has helped me to move through different phases of my life and experience them with an open heart and mind. I am deeply grateful to her and her husband, Tom, for treating me like family and truly caring about me.

Website: www.elizabethmcbryde.com

Instagram: @livelikeliz @human_plus_human_official @alphastellaproductions

Linkedin: Elizabeth McBryde

Youtube: Elizabeth McBryde, Live Like Liz

Other: https://seedandspark.com/fund/control-2#story

Image Credits
Photographers listed in order of appearance, from left to right, Chuy Gutierrez – Boslabs Photography Autumn Luciano – Luciano Studios (Emily Bigard is the other model in the picture) Peter Figetakis – Figgi Film Htet Wonn Thawtar – XLR8R Photography Dylan Stuckey – Dylan Stuckey Photography Francis Hills – Figjam Headshots Chuy Gutierrez – Boslabs Photography

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