JLO: What was your first memorable public performance?
JS: My first public performance was a Juneau-Douglas High School production of Peter Pan in the late 1980s. I think I was in fourth grade and Peter Pan made a wrong turn to Neverland and wound up in Alaska. We danced as Native children.
JLO: Who are three singers who have influenced you throughout your singing career?
JS: I hate to sound cliché in this answer, but the singer who has influenced me the most is my mother. She inspired and continues to do so while singing in our church choir. I continue to give homage to her every week. Julie Andrews taught me to sing. Do, a Deer! Finally, I didn’t really listen to music as a child. But I watched all the Disney princess videos. I loved and still to love singing with Ariel, Belle and Anastasia (I know, not Disney). Yup, I want to be a cartoon.
JLO: Who are local performers who inspire you?
JS: I am absolutely awed and inspired by our local Family Von Trapp, the Smiths. Doug and Angela Smith and their beautiful daughters and son all have more talent in their little fingers than I do in my whole body and their caring spirit is quite humbling.
JLO: What are three songs you absolutely love to sing?
JS: I love singing Ave Marias. They are a calming devotional to end my crazy day. And as there are so many I often go for the Gregorian Chant or the Gounod.
JLO: What is your favorite local role or performance?
JS: I believe my favorite local role was in the JDHS production of Joseph and the Amazing Techni-Color Dream coat in the mid 1990s. I didn’t have a particularly large role (in fact I was a cow! A fine, healthy animal, to be exact). But, to participate with such a large cast and to perform in front of sell-out crowds was exciting and electric.
JLO: What is your favorite place to sing (besides the stage)?
JS: Again cliché — I sing in my shower and the car. I sing for myself to uplift my spirit. “To sing is to pray twice.” — St. Augustine
JLO: What is a famous movie or theatre role you would love the chance to play?
JS: I would love to play any of the Disney princesses. I especially relate to Ariel and Belle.
JLO: What are some of your other interests besides singing?
JS: I enjoy spending time with my two beautiful children as well as practicing my artistic skills, whether it be face-painting, teaching painting pARTies or designing fantastic birthday or wedding decor.
To vote for Jessica Snyder, text DivaJessie to 71777 or visit her campaign page at http://igfn.us/vf/DivaJessie.
