Stage Stars Share What They Love About NYC Broadway.com February 2008   Photo credit : Greg Gilbert for the Seattle Times

He may have been born in a suburb of Atlanta, but Shuler Hensley's heart belongs to New York City. Though he's traveled the world showing off his glorious voice in all kinds of musicals (from his Tony- and Olivier Award-winning performance in Oklahoma! to a stint in Germany starring in The Phantom of the Opera), Hensley, now wowing Broadway audiences as the Monster in Young Frankenstein, knows his way around Manhattan. The talented star (and father of two) brings enthusiasm to everything he does—even answering Broadway.com's questions about his adopted hometown, and offering ideas for enjoying city life without spending a fortune.

What is your quintessential New York meal, and where would you eat it?
Bagels from H&H (2239 Broadway at 80th St.) and lox from Zabar's (2245 Broadway at 80th St.), eaten on the Sheep Meadow in Central Park (mid-park, between 66th and 69th St.) with a Sunday New York Times.

Who is your favorite New Yorker?
The Naked Cowboy...living proof you can do anything in this town and make a living!

If you had to recommend three must-see places for visitors to New York, what would they be and why?
Riverside Park in the spring, Rockefeller Center in the winter, and Delacorte Theater shows (in Central Park, mid-park at 80th St.) in the summer - all FREE.

Do you root for a New York sports team? Which one(s)?
Mets & Giants!

What are three items that every New Yorker should own?
Sunglasses, a MetroCard and an unbreakable umbrella!

What's the biggest misconception about New York City?
That everything is expensive (see question 3).

What stereotype about New York City is true?
That it never...and I mean NEVER…sleeps!!

What is your favorite neighborhood and why?
Upper West Side. I've lived half my life between 77th and 106th. It's all there!!!

Is there something you've always wanted to do in New York, but have not yet accomplished?
Sing at the Metropolitan Opera, perform at the Delacorte Theatre and run the New York City Marathon.

What is the best thing you've bought in New York, and where did you get it?
Margaritas at Arriba Arriba (762 Ninth Ave at 51st St, and other locations). It's where I met my wife!

What song lyrics sum up New York for you?
“Take me back to Manhattan...” (Enough said.)

What do you love most about being part of the New York theater community?
The energy, the tradition and the fans!!!

What's your most cherished New York theatrical memory - of a show you saw, or one you were part of?
The first day back on Broadway after 9/11. The theater was a haven for so many weary people. Our art form was redefined for me then.