Renee Matthews is a beloved Chicago singer and actress. Her long and storied life includes debuting at The Chicago Theatre at the age of 6 and studying voice at the Metropolitan Opera. She played the harp for Harpo Marx (and brother Groucho) at Harpo’s Beverly Hills mansion, and toured the country as a solo vocalist. Renee entered the world of musical theatre at the age of 50, appearing at all the Chicago theatres, including the Goodman, Candlelight, Marriott, Royal George, Mercury, among others. She won two Joseph Jefferson Awards along the way. Renee is also proud of her family life. She is the daughter of a famous singer and concert pianist, and wife of another avid harpist. She is the loving mother of two sons, and grandmother to six grandchildren. Besides that, she’s also a hoot.
Great stuff, Shawn. And Renee is magical. And the clever fadeout…loved it. Bravo, Shawn!
Renee is remarkable. She is so full of love, humor, a sense of fun and expectation. She is just a delight. She is also the most positive, kind, generous person I know. Her energy level would be amazing for a person twenty years younger. I am very proud to call her a friend and proud of her remarkable talent. I live in New York and don’t get to see her very often, but that’s reason enough for a trip to beautiful Chicago. I was so glad to hear this podcast. Thank you for a warm, intimate 45 minutes listening to your interview. I learned many things I never knew about Renee.
Renee is an inspiration to me. I’m so lucky to say I know her. Admittedly, not as well as I’d like, but every interaction has meant the world to me.