The conversation has been edited and condensed.
Vogue: I understand that youre usually based in Charlotte.
How has it been, settling down in New York again this year?
Photo: Evan Zimmerman
Stephanie Mills:I like it.
Can you tell me how you came to join this production?
I didnt know that much about it, so I went to see it and I liked it.
Mills with André De Shields in April.
And then I saw Andre and he really, really encouraged me to do it.
So I said, I believe I could do ituntil I got to the rehearsals.
Then it was hard.
Mills with Maia Reficco (as Eurydice) inHadestown.
This is the hardest thing Ive ever done.
Mills with Andre De Shields in April.
Were you actively seeking out theater roles at the time?
With Yola (as Persephone).
Well, not really, no.
I dont even know how they came about my name.
And I said, Lets see!
Mills as Dorothy inThe Wiz, circa 1975.
And once you saw the show, what struck you about it?
Im always up for new challenges.
How was the part tailored to your particular tools as a performer?
I spoke to Andre De Shields and he was like, You have to stay present.
And I said, Orpheus is my son.
Im a god, but Im more of a mother than a god.
Yolas absolutely wonderful, and Maia is just so sweet and nice.
Theyre doing a great job, for it to be their first time being on Broadway.
Mills with Maia Reficco (as Eurydice) inHadestown.
With Yola (as Persephone).
Have you learned anything about yourself as a performer during this run?
Im learning that I can stand on my feet for two and a half hours.
The older I get, the more confident I get in my acting.
Before, did you more consider yourself a singer who acts?
Yes, I felt like a singer who acts.
Now, I feel like Im an actress who just happens to have a recording career.
Has this run dredged up any memories for you from your earlier career on Broadway?
Or does this experience feel quite distinct from what you were doing 40 years ago?
Its a distinct experience.
I mean, I was 17 when I didThe Wiz, but its like riding a bike.
I love the smell of a theater.
I love being in the theater.
Ive always felt that way.
Mills as Dorothy inThe Wiz, circa 1975.
Can you tell me about your show-day routine?
How are you taking care of yourself?
Im pretty healthy anyway, and Im sort of a pamper puss.
Im a girly girl.
And Im not even in heels, Im just in little wedge boots.
Its just the standing that gets to you.
And Im not complaining about it, it comes with the territory.
But I just soak my feet, thats all.
Thats the only thing extra that Im doing.
I would love to release a Broadway album.
I love the music inHadestown.
It is absolutely beautiful.
And would you want to do more theater after this?
Will we see you treading the boards again soon?
Im already asking my agent.
But I would definitely come back to Broadway.
