Lord Nil: 7 Deadly Sins Star Steph Payne Shares His New York Loves
Step Payne stars as the namesake character, and I had a chance to catch up with the talent about what he loves most in New York.
Where do you live in NYC?
When in NYC, I love staying in Hell's Kitchen. That is where I've chosen to stay for the duration of our run.
What is your favorite neighborhood here and why?
That's such a hard question to answer. The culture here is runs so deep and that is what makes the city so wonderful. While I'm still exploring— I'm in love with Midtown Manhattan's Broadway culture, and Harlem's rich history. Especially Sylvia's, the soul food restaurant!
Can you share some of your favorite spots in a Theater District and what makes them so great?
Shubert Alley for all the Broadway history. The Drama Book Shop is a must for anyone in acting. From the plethora of acting literature to the coffee, this is one of my favorite places. Little Italy Pizza is the best stop for a sick slice of New York pizza. The sauce and crust are to die for!
The best place for a pre-or post-theater meal and why. What are the dishes to order?
I like a classy, old glamour vibe, so I fell very hard for a hidden gem next to Stage 42 called, 'Chez Josephine.' A lovely French restaurant themed after Josephine Baker (and formerly owned by her family). They have a cute bar where I often enjoy a delicious meal and a Bakertini. The owner, Manuel and his sons have been very kind to me and even gave me a book about Josephine. They have live piano just about every night which adds to the vibe.
Best watering hole near your theater and the drink to get?
I discovered Bar Centrale, a well-known, but very unmarked spot where it's easy to strike conversations with other performers and theater enthusiasts. It's hard to find bars that make a good Paper Plane martini. Theirs is the best I've had in town. The way it's served adds to the experience. I won't spoil that for you.
Insider tips for enjoying a thrilling show like yours? Anything to make the experience better?
I would advise theater-goers to ditch expectations for any show and just allow yourself a raw experience. Our show is anything but traditional theater. Lord Nil's story unfolds more like a dream than a linear plot, and my character, Vice needs no reason for her chaos. Expect a drop dead gorgeous, talented cast, complete with beautiful scoring and choreography that is silver screen worthy. This show is psychologically challenging and emotionally charged. In the end, you will question yourself.
The New York City theater you love to go to and why?
I love the Broadway theaters! The Al Hirschfeld Theater is one of the most beautiful I've ever seen. I walked in to see Moulin Rouge! for the first time and was blown away. I felt like I was transported to another place and time. The Ambassadors Lounge is quite charming for a pre-show cocktail and the Can-Can seat experience is a must. Experiencing the energy that close to the stage is awesome.
What other shows are on your radar right now?
I have to see Moulin Rouge! again. I'm thrilled to see Wayne Brady join the cast. I randomly met him outside our rehearsal studios and I was taken aback at how kind and humble he was. I also have to see Gypsy. It would be very remiss of me not to see Audra McDonald. Death Becomes Her, Cabaret, and Hell's Kitchen are also on my list.
Share your insider New York gems.
Okay, I'll give you a, 'Vice & Velvet,' night out:
I would put on a stylish black outfit with Smokey eyes, red lips, and start with a cocktail rapture at Dear Irving on Hudson for pre-show bites & drinks. Next, the immersive experience- Lord Nil: Seven Deadly Sins at right around the corner at Stage 42. Then, late night jazz at The Django in Tribeca or The Blue Note. After Hours at Bar Centrale. Then, a late night walk through Shubert Alley. That's my vibe for a beautiful night in NYC.
Can you share your favorite theaters around the world and why?
The Pasadena Playhouse. My grandfather, Jimmy Payne performed there and I did as a child as well. The Apollo in Harlem. I grew up watching Showtime At The Apollo. It's a cornerstone of Black American performance history. The Royal National Theater in London is a favorite of mine. I enjoyed several productions when I lived there. Reynolds Hall at The Smith Center in Las Vegas in another theater I've been fortunate to perform in. The design and sound resonance are like something out of a movie.
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