Meet Bar Daniel | Performing artist and an all around musical theatre nerd

We had the good fortune of connecting with Bar Daniel and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Bar, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
Throughout my journey, I’ve found that embracing leaps of faith is fundamental to being an artist. Every day presents new opportunities that require risk-taking, and I’ve learned to thrive in that environment. When I reflect on my decision to pursue my passion for performing in Los Angeles, it’s clear that it was a defining moment for me. Some may have doubted my choice, but I was driven by a deep conviction that this path was meant for me, and I still hold onto that belief today.

Immediately after my high school graduation, I got drafted to the IDF (Israeli Defense Forces), where I served as the spokesperson for the bereaved families and lost soldiers unit. Those years shaped me and my viewpoints on life, they were filled with meaning and taught me invaluable lessons about living life to its fullest through the incredible stories of the amazing families I had the privilege of telling. However, my passion for performance beckoned me back, and 48 hours after my release from the military, on June 17th, 2021, I embarked on a journey to the US. I wasted no time and began my first semester at AMDA College as a Musical Theatre Major.

The transition to my new environment was both exhilarating and challenging. In my first week, I was humbled in ways I hadn’t anticipated. From navigating the intricacies of opening a bank account to mastering the art of doing laundry, I was thrown into a crash course in adulthood. Amidst it all, I was reminded of the power of love—the love for my craft, and my country, and made sure I do my absolute best to represent my heritage proudly. As the only Jewish Israeli on campus at the time, I embraced the responsibility of being a cultural ambassador, wearing my uniqueness with pride.

Looking back at the person I was three years ago, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude for her bravery and determination. It’s because of her unwavering resolve that I stand here today, holding a BFA in my hand and on the brink of realizing dreams that once felt beyond reach. If you had asked me three years ago, I never would have imagined achieving the goals that now lie within my grasp. But through perseverance and a steadfast commitment to my passion, I’ve defied my own expectations and emerged stronger than ever before.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Of course! Well, hi there! I’m Bar Daniel (Yup, like a pub, or a rod). and I’m a Los Angeles-based singer, actress, dancer, and probably the biggest Broadway nerd you’ll ever meet. These three disciplines that make a musical theatre performer are not just skills I’ve acquired; they’re an intrinsic part of who I am. I often joke that I was singing before I even knew how to talk – it’s truly my greatest passion.

My journey into the world of Musicals began In third grade. I was introduced to the iconic film ‘Grease,’ which left a permanent mark on me. Despite its less-than-PG-13 content, that for the most part went completely over my head. What captivated me most was the realization that there existed an art form that seamlessly integrated all three of my favorite disciplines, with the fourth one being John Travolta as Danny Zuko.

Despite facing a language barrier at the time, my enthusiasm for musical theatre knew no bounds. I embarked on a mission to immerse myself in this captivating world. Hours spent devouring content on YouTube became the norm, each video expanding my vocabulary and understanding. Cast recordings became the soundtrack of my days, with every lyric and inflection committed to memory through sheer determination, I think I can confidently say that Broadway taught me English.

As a performer, I’ve had the privilege of gracing the stage in a diverse array of productions, spanning from original works to globally recognized classics. Among my credits, I’ve inhabited iconic roles such as Dorothy Gale in “The Wizard Of Oz,” Ivy Robinson in “Bare: A Pop Opera,” Hope Cladwell in “Urinetown,” and Maggie Winslow in “A Chorus Line.” Each character has allowed me to delve deep into their unique journeys, connecting with audiences in profound ways. I’m thrilled to continue this journey, eagerly anticipating the opportunity to step into more inspiring stories and bring them to life on stage.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Although I’ve lived here for more than 3 years, I feel like I discover new, overlooked gems that I never heard about almost every day.

Currently, my favorite place to escape from the city (and touch some grass) is the Huntington Botanical Gardens in Pasadena, it’s so peaceful and provides the perfect escape when my mind’s a little clouted.
when I have friends and family over for a visit, I take them to a tea garden for brunch before visiting the botanical gardens.

When it comes to food and unique shops, my top pick has to be little Tokyo, is it just me or it California sushi underrated?
There’s so much to do in the area too! Especially with the BROAD museum being nearby.

Speaking of the arts, I love catching the national tours that come to LA at the Amhanson or the Pantages, not to mention the incredible regional theatres operating in LA and OC (La Mirada, MTW, 5 Star Theatricals, etc) the Hollywood Bowl currently has a very fun line up and I’m looking forward to catching a show there soon!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I owe my success to my incredible, larger-than-life family. My parents, in particular, have been unwavering in their support, even with an ocean between us, I am without a doubt the luckiest person in the world because I was born into the best parents, the best family cell a person could ask for. Every achievement I make, whether big or small, is dedicated to them. My biggest goal has always been to make them proud. Their belief in me has been a driving force in my journey.
תודה לכם משפחה יקרה שלי, שראיתם אותי ואת האושר שלי, כל צעד במסע הזה הוא בשבילכם ובזכותכם.

Website: https://bardaniel050.wixsite.com/mysite

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_bar_daniel/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bar.daniel.9/

Image Credits
Melissa Baxter