We were lucky to catch up with Mario Greiner recently and have shared our conversation below.

Mario, appreciate you joining us today. Can you take us back in time to the first dollar you earned as a creative – how did it happen? What’s the story?

That’s an amazing question. It brings back beautiful memories! While being in German high school, I participated in a program of the European Union called Comenius programme. There, the renowned public German theater “Theater Hagen”, the German Reichenbach Gymnasium, as well as the French Théatr’ Action-Bordeaux, Espace Treulon Bruges and the Lycée in Bordeaux worked together to create a French-German show, written by students and professionals. One of the directors, Werner Hahn, would play a big role later on in my career. I participated in a showcase at Theater Hagen and during class there was an announcement by the school for me to come to the director’s office. Little did I know that Werner Hahn was working on a new show called “Räuberhände”. They wanted to cast me as the leading actor based on my work that they had seen! Shortly after, I found myself in my first big professional production, including radio interviews and campaigns on TV showcasing parts of our work. We even went touring with that production. My high school at the time gladly collaborated with the Theater and helped me make my dream a reality.

Mario, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been passionate about acting, music, and dance. During elementary school, I tried different sports, but it quickly became clear that my true calling was in the performing arts. With a grandmother who was a ballet dancer and a mother who plays piano and cello, I started performing in community theater and dancing hip-hop at a young age. Musicals came in shortly after, and after high school, I finally began taking voice lessons, determined to develop my singing abilities.

Now, I live in a shared apartment in Lower Manhattan, and my career in the musical and film industry has truly taken off in recent years. Besides singing for Kristin Chenoweth in the Stephen Sondheim Theatre on Broadway, I’ve had the pleasure of performing as a lead, and understudy or ensemble in numerous productions in New York City. In my free time, I like to dive deeper into Swing dance and tap dance are my favorite styles, and I’m continuously honing my skills in these areas.

One of my proudest projects was playing Riley in the film “Blue Wednesday,” a movie musical directed by Broadway star and award winning director Pierre Marais. I am equally as proud and grateful for playing the leading role of “Victor Frankenstein” in the new Off-Broadway musical “The Frankenstein Project”, written and directed by Emmy-winner Ian James “William Electric Black”. I also got to star in a beautiful production of “Cinderella” in New York City by Felisha Heng. In addition to my stage and screen work, I regularly perform at the renowned Tony award winning 54 BELOW, known as the “living room of Broadway.” I’ve performed there as Marius from “LES MISÉRABLES,” joining the ranks of notable stars who have graced that stage. I was also cast in the Amazon Prime series “THE COLLEGE TOURS,” which showcases my life coming to the United States as a musical theater artist.

Living and working in New York City is a dream come true for me. Being at the heart of the theater industry allows me to experience new, unique shows and be part of groundbreaking projects. The diversity and opportunity here are unparalleled, which is also why I have been fortunate enough to be cast in a variety of short films, too. Whether in New York or elsewhere, I’m always open to new challenges and excited to continue living and sharing my dream.

Have you ever had to pivot?

Absolutely! After making the first move to the United States to attend a musical conservatory program in Manhattan, I ended up having to pivot because of the Covid Pandemic. I moved back to Germany, switched gears and built on existing skillsets from my time working in business and IT while staying in training taking acting, singing, dancing and accent coaching classes. I had the absolute honor of working with Deloitte as an IT consultant in Hamburg, Germany. Not only did that help me build important business, project and time management as well as communication skills, I also made great friends along the way that I am still in touch with today.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect of being a creative, for me, is the profound connection it allows me to forge with others through the unique lens of the human experience. As an actor, singer, and dancer, I get to explore and express a vast array of emotions, stories, and perspectives that resonate deeply with people. There’s something truly magical about embodying a character and bringing their journey to life, knowing that it might touch someone’s heart or make them see the world in a new light.

The real magic, however, happens in front of a live audience. There’s an unparalleled energy in the air when you’re performing live—an electric connection between the performer and the audience. It’s a shared experience that’s fleeting yet unforgettable. Each performance is unique, shaped by the reactions and emotions of those watching. This immediate feedback and exchange of energy fuel my passion and remind me why I chose this path every time.

Being a creative allows me to contribute to this beautiful world of storytelling and emotional experience. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that my work can evoke laughter, tears, reflection, or inspiration. It’s in these moments of genuine connection and shared humanity that I find the greatest reward in what I do.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://mariogreiner.com
• Instagram: themariogreiner
• Other: Broadway World Performer Profile: https://www.broadwayworld.com/people/Mario-Greiner/

Image Credits

Marth Brown
Desiree Conston
NYFA
Theater Hagen
Krishna Adoni