"The Robe tradition symbolizes two very important ideas for me: the first is that it celebrates the importance and the hard work of the ensemble. Very often the ensemble is not recognized for the day-to-day amazing dancing, singing and acting that they do, without which a show would in no way be complete. The second is that it is a way to appreciate that a particular actor/ensemble player has continued to work and make a living in the business! That is no small feat. So thank you for that recognition. I felt very honored and humbled to be among the extraordinary list of men and women who have gone before me. Many I know, and many, of course, I don't, but we are all part of an incredible family of devoted, hard-working creatives!"
Name: Joanna Glushak
Hometown: Born and raised in Manhattan, on the Upper West Side
First Broadway Credit: I was Bernadette Peters’ standby on the original Sunday In The Park With George
Professional Training: I started out as a ballerina (Harkness, ABT) and changed directions at 16 when I landed the lead in a PBS TV series called Watch Your Mouth, at which time I decided to go to NYU for acting. I studied at Circle in The Square with Nikos Psacharopoulos
I then went back to Yale School of Drama after a long career and graduated in 1999.
I’ve studied voice with many teachers in NYC, and I continue to study at varying times to keep up my acting, singing and dancing skills.
Year Joined Equity: I believe I joined equity in 1977 or thereabouts.
How I Got My Equity Card: At the time you could pay into Equity to get your card if you were a member of another union and I was a member of AFTRA and SAG, so I paid for the card.
Number of Broadway Chorus Contract Credits: I've done ten Broadway shows and 6 of them have been chorus contracts.
Fun Fact: I like helping Juanita Ramirez with her charity. She's on YouTube.
View the full gallery of photos
Watch the video of the ceremony