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M/A Coverstory:
New York - Based Multidisciplinary Performer Randall Holloway on Building Creative Longevity
Manhattan Avenue | Jan 12, 2026
Randall Holloway embodies the versatility and discipline demanded by today’s performance-driven creative economy. As a New York City–based actor, singer, and performer, his work reflects a command of craft across multiple stages and formats. Moving fluidly between theatre, music, and live performance, Holloway represents a new class of talent - one that understands longevity, adaptability, and the evolving standards of professional excellence in the entertainment industry.
Photographer: Simi Vijay
Q&A
Q: What’s something the audience never sees, but is essential to every performance you give?
A: Before every performance, I commit to the essential behind the scenes work that enables me to share my gift. On the day of, I usually engage in a physical exercise and practice deep breathing to get into the right mindset. I listen to music that sets the tone for what I'm about to do and offer a prayer for myself and the audience. Then, I trust in the preparation I've done and let it go.
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Q: If your journey was a set list or a script, what would the title of the current chapter be - and why?
A: In this chapter of my life, I would name it "Still Standing." This title embodies my distinct outlook on life, shaped by the various experiences I've faced. Throughout my journey, there have been times when I’ve been pushed up against the ropes, moments where survival was my only focus, and I've often found myself calling out to my family and God for guidance. However, I’ve also celebrated incredible victories that have fueled my soul. At the end of the day I’m responsible for my life, my happiness, and my joy and the peaks and valleys are an essential part to the human experience to grow. Each of my setbacks have taught me resilience, while each success has fostered my personal growth. Ultimately, I am just grateful to wake up everyday and to continue this journey, growing and evolving into the person I am today Randall Holloway.
Q: Growing up when did you realise you had such a talent for the arts and singing?
A: From an early age, my parents placed me in performing arts schools, they believed it was crucial to expose their children to diverse experiences to find what truly resonates with them. This early exposure sparked my passion for the arts. However, it wasn't until I gained admission to the Milwaukee High School of the Arts that I truly recognised my potential as an artist. During my time there, I began to refine my vocal abilities and also ventured into acting with various theater companies across the city. These experiences have profoundly shaped my artistic journey to this day.
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Q: What would you say was a defining moment in your career - and why?
A: That's a great question. I honestly feel like I'm still discovering that defining moment because the best is yet to come. However, a couple of years ago, I found myself in a unique position serving as a COVID supervisor for The Lion King on Broadway. Even though I wasn't performing, the position allowed me to be inspired by every moving part both on and off the stage. Each day, I worked alongside top performers, crew members, makeup artists, designers, and more. It was a constant reminder that what we do is bigger than ourselves. The experience was truly humbling, as it allowed me to provide peace of mind to people and their families, ensuring that the show could go on. Afterward, I made a promise to myself to carry that experience into everything I do moving forward professionally.
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Q: What’s your favourite thing about performing live?
A: The exchange of energy and emotions between myself and the audience is something that captivates me every time when I perform. It’s a dance that I get to take with the audience. As an artist, I have the power to evoke a wide range of emotions from those watching, and honestly the rush you get from that is the best feeling in the world.
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Q: With the 2025 Met Gala right around the corner, the theme being “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” it honors the creativity, resilience, and spirit woven into Black culture. When you think about your art and story and the way you present yourself to the world, how do you feel you’re carrying forward that legacy = and shaping it in your own way?”
A: I feel I'm carrying forward the legacy by embracing my authenticity as a source of power. By staying true to who I am I honor the ancestors who paved the way before me, and honor their contributions by acknowledging the past and advancing the legacy that defines our community today.
