I keep "leave me alone, I'm busy " pretending to work sign with me because my dad once told me to find a job that you would do for free and I would do this job for free. But I would be a performer for free because that's all I've ever loved to do. I've worked so hard to get to the point where work doesn't feel like work. So when I come to work, I'm actually coming to play - I'm coming to recess. So, when you see me, leave me alone, I'm busy ... pretending to work.
James Monroe IglehartAnd also, folks live in a regular world, so when they come to our show [Aladdin], we want to take that away from them for a little bit. Just give them two hours to make up for the train that didn't come on time or the terrible news you get from TV.
James Monroe IglehartWhen people come to our show [Aladdin], I want them to forget about that for a little while and enjoy the moment. That's what I want to give them. I loved performing since I was a little kid.
James Monroe IglehartI have to maintain the weight. This is the second show [Aladdin] that I have done where I am not allowed to technically lose any weight. I'm supposed to be big. It's impressive to see someone of my size.
James Monroe IglehartWhen you see big people, they expect them to wobble or something. The whole feeling of bigger people in this country is so negative. This works for me.
James Monroe IglehartI always keep some form of cartoon or comic book with me, especially Batman - he's my favorite. The reason I keep them around is that it keeps the kid in me alive. Some older folks, they like to drink - can't wait to get old. Me? I like to stay young. I know I'm going to be get older, but I can at least be young at heart so I read these comic books so I keep myself right on that level of kid to keep me having fun on stage.
James Monroe Iglehart