Photographer Jenny Anderson has amassed a vast collection of photographs over the past 18 years, covering prestigious events like the Academy Awards, Tony Awards, and numerous Broadway premieres. In an exclusive interview with Parade, the 40-year-old photographer revealed that she can easily capture over 3,000 photos in a single night at an opening event, leading to an impressive archive built over nearly two decades.
Anderson has become a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, capturing candid and intimate moments with notable personalities such as Patti LuPone, Hugh Jackman, Zendaya, and Andrew Garfield. Her latest endeavor involves curating over 100 of her favorite photographs into a coffee table book titled “The In-Between: Intimate and Candid Moments of Broadway Stars,” featuring a foreword by Oscar winner Ariana DeBose, set for release on April 15.
Reflecting on her journey, Anderson shared a memorable experience with actress Glenn Close, describing a surreal moment of capturing Close in her iconic Norma Desmond costume. The photograph, featured on the cover of her book, symbolizes a significant milestone in Anderson’s career, showcasing the depth of her artistic vision and access to the industry’s elite.
Coming from a family with a strong artistic background, Anderson’s passion for photography led her to New York after graduating from the University of Mississippi. Starting with an internship at Broadway.com, she quickly established herself as a rising talent in the field, documenting the vibrant world of theater with a keen eye for detail.
While Anderson has covered countless red carpet events, her true passion lies in capturing the behind-the-scenes moments that often escape public attention. By preserving these fleeting and intimate interactions, she sees herself not only as a photographer but also as a guardian of theater history, ensuring that these precious moments are immortalized for future generations.
One poignant photograph that holds special significance for Anderson features the late Gavin Creel, a talented actor who tragically passed away in September at the age of 48. Through her lens, Anderson continues to honor the legacy of performers like Creel, immortalizing their contributions to the world of theater and entertainment.
During his time in “Hello, Dolly!” Gavin Creel won the 2017 Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical. Reflecting on this special moment, a photographer recalls capturing a poignant image of Gavin and his co-stars, Caissie Levy and Will Swenson, during rehearsal. The photograph symbolized a historic and joyous moment, with the young actors exuding freshness and sweetness on stage. The photographer cherishes this memory and the sentiment it carries.
Reminiscing further, the photographer shares a personal connection with Gavin, noting that he was the first person she informed about her book deal. Despite his illness, Gavin expressed immense pride and support for her, demonstrating his kindness and generosity. This heartfelt interaction resonates with the photographer, underscoring the meaningful relationships fostered within the Broadway community.
“The In-Between: Intimate and Candid Moments of Broadway Stars” is now available for pre-sale, capturing authentic glimpses of the lives and experiences of theater luminaries.
