Actress, singer-songwriter, and whistler (yes, I said whistler) Lauren Elder, living in New York City, has been seen on Boardwalk Empire (HBO), Louie (FX), Law & Order (NBC). She also appeared on Broadway and West End revivals of Hair; and the Broadway revival of Side Show. She performs regularly in NYC at 54 Below, Joe’s Pub, Birdland, and other local venues. She also writes original music blending the sweet sounds of the ukulele with her expert whistling and influences of folk, jazz, and pop to create her unique, whimsical sound. She recently released her debut album, which is available on iTunes. In addition, Lauren teaches musical theater at New York Film Academy.
Lauren now joins the fun in Granny’s Blue-Mers, opening in October (see artcile on Rachel Kaufman)
This ambitious woman ain’t just whistlin’ dixie! Let’s hear all about it…
This is one of my favorite genres, so it feels less like tackling, and more like swimming in a beautiful lake of songs! I’m always looking for songs that are underdone, forgotten, or never got the chance to shine.
I’ve always sought out my own path, which has luckily delved me into both indie and commercial theater, tv, and film. I feel like people know that I love to do offbeat pieces, and they seem to just find me now. But even most of my commercial work has been more indie at heart. I’m often cast in shows that are full of what I like to call misfits – performers who don’t fit the traditional molds. It feels to me like indie is being embraced more and more, especially with the unpredictability and risk involved in commercial art. Videos:
Videos of my whistling:
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I’m an actress, singer-songwriter, and the 2017 Female Whistling World Champion. I’ve performed on Broadway (Hair, Side Show) and London’s West End (Hair), and on TV (Law & Order SVU, Boardwalk Empire). I released my self titled debut album of original music this year, which also features my award winning whistling.
I’m playing my ukulele in this show, and these old songs have some complicated chord progressions that I’m not used to. But it’s a challenge I welcome with open arms. I’m always looking to improve my playing, and this will definitely help!
I LOVE THEM! They are so important, because they give voices to those are not usually (or ever) in the spotlight. Some of the most innovative art is done in the indie realm. People aren’t afraid to take chances, which makes it more interesting and thrilling.
Drama Queens, a five-star arts journal focusing on female artists 
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