18 • Aug 2 - 4, 2020 NATIONAL NEW YORK (AP) — Broadway seamstress Amy Micallef hasn’t put her talent on hold while theaters are shut. She’s been making plush toys — unusual plush toys. Micallef, who has worked in the wardrobe departments of “Hamilton,” “Waitress” and “Frozen,” makes gleeful representations of COVID-19, complete with a pair of eyes and faux fur. Each one goes for $23 on Etsy and she encourages buyers to unleash their anger on her creations — be merciless against a virus that has caused so much loss and disruption. “Sometimes you need to throw something against the wall, you need to step on something. Do you want to run that thing over with your car? Honey, be my guest,” she said. “Here is here is your chance for sweet, sweet vengeance.” While stages remain dark, Broadway workers like Micallef are finding ways to keep the lights on at home with side hustles. Some teach dance. Some offer music lessons or acting tips via Zoom. Some make jewelry or bransonglobe.com Plush toys, jewelry, dance lessons — Broadway’s side hustles prints of their art. Some sell skincare products or handmade journals. “Actors’ normal side gigs are catering and even those jobs don’t exist. No one’s hosting parties,” said Jeanna de Waal, who is to play the title role in the musical “Diana.” “A lot of people are having to learn new side hustles and utilize any skill that they’ve got to pay the bills.” The survival picture is certain to get darker when the government’s SEE BROADWAY, PAGE 20 Amy Micallef posing with her craft creations at her home. (Amy Micallef via AP) NOW OFFERING LEASE TO OWN OPTIONS 55+ Gated Master-Planned Community Located on Branson Hills Parkway in Branson, MO • Maintenance Free Living • Clubhouse • Discounted Membership at Branson Hills Golf Club • Amazing Location • Beautiful Valley Views CALL NOW 417.239.0951 SummitRidgeBRANSON.COm
21 Publizr Home