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If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere. New York City has more potential stars per square mile than any other city in the world. An artist’s repeated resilience is what sifts the stars from the hopefuls. The prospect of finding your own corner of this city’s expansive musical stage can be daunting. But that is precisely what Astoria’s Brook Wood is attempting to do. A native of Indianapolis, Indiana, Wood moved to New York in August 2013 to pursue a career in musical theater. Though she was met with several encouraging moments of success and numerous affirmations of her talent, Wood soon realized that singing her face off with a full rock-band was much more her cup of tea. Brook has performed as a principal singer for Holland America Cruise Lines, starred in Jeremy Schonfeld’s musical “SPUN” at The Adirondack Wood Bro k Theatre Festival, and just premiered her first solo show at The Bitter End, which featured an entire set of Schonfeld’s music. “It can be really tough knowing when to say yes, and when to say no,” admits the young singer, just 25 years old. “But I have learned you don’t have to say yes to everyone, and you shouldn’t do things you don’t feel passionate about. As long as you are humble, kind, and grateful, you just need to be you.” The beginning of what promises to be a tremendous career can be the most exciting time to watch such a gifted singer. Wood’s voice ranges from a soft intensity that lends itself to intimate storytelling to an astonishingly big, brassy belt that catches audiences by surprise. But her performance is always genuine, sincere, and sung from the heart. This is an Astoria star worth keeping an eye on. Wood will be performing a full set on May 9th at New York City’s oldest rock club, The Bitter End, at 9 p.m. featuring tunes by Schonfeld, accompanied by what Wood likes to refer to as “a kickin’ band.” Wood will once again take the same stage shared by Janis Joplin, Norah Jones, The Grateful Dead, Lady Gaga, and Carole King, among so many other greats. Be sure to block off that Monday on your calendar, and prepare to witness something special. Brook Wood may be a tiny little match, but she ignites a brilliant fire. May 9, 2016 at 8 p.m. The Bitter End 147 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10012 Story by Bradley Hawks 46 I BOROMAG.COM I APRIL 2016 THE ARTS


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