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New Jersey-born actor, singer, dancer and host of the Be The Good with Kate podcast, Kate Cherichello has lived in Hell’s Kitchen for a dozen years. This is her West Side Story.
So, what’s your New York story? Born here, or just arrived?
I’ve been a resident for a dozen years, originally from an hour west in NJ. From as far back as I can remember, my plan was to move to NYC after college to pursue performing. I’m grateful to have done just that. I moved to Hell’s Kitchen from the start and have been here ever since when I am not performing out of town.
What was your first job? What do you do now?
My first NYC job was subbing classes for a corporate fitness company in various locations in Manhattan while I was interning with Roundabout Theatre Co. To this day, I still teach for them, as well as train clients as a certified personal trainer. I coach in-person and virtually, and bring health and wellness expertise to business and corporate settings. I love to inspire others to live their healthiest lives!
I am an actor, singer, dancer and host, stage and screen — as a performer, I’ve toured with the USO Show Troupe, Jersey Boys and Broadway Tonite, and performed in numerous productions across the country. I have also appeared in commercials, television shows and films. I have a weekly show and podcast called Be The Good with Kate — so it all keeps me busy!
What’s your favorite New York minute (or moment) so far?
How can anyone pick just one?! But I will say being beyond surprised when my now husband proposed on Pier I on a gloriously sunny day in June 2017 probably takes the cake.
Share with us why you love Hell’s Kitchen
It is so convenient to everything. I can walk everywhere. The river is a few blocks away. When people are visiting town, chances are very good they will end up in Midtown and be able to meet up.
Being able to get to classes, auditions, theaters, grocery stores, and more all within a few minutes’ walk is so helpful with a busy and mixed schedule.
What’s your superpower or hidden talent?
Specific to living in Midtown Manhattan, it may be my weaving around tourists skills 🙂
But in life, right now it feels like my hidden talent is keeping up my energy while being five months pregnant!
What else should we know about you?
I host Be The Good with Kate each week. It began at the height of the pandemic as a way for me to do something to bring some good news to a time pulled down by the negative. I have had the honor of featuring guests from across the world to a block away from me in Hell’s Kitchen! Guests vary vastly in industry, background and just about every other way, except that they follow their passions and make a positive difference. I absolutely love getting the chance to share these incredible stories. Nearly 100 episodes in now, and every guest continues to amaze me.
Some of the New Yorkers featured include Alvin Hough Jr, Broadway music director; Rick DellaRatta, Jazz For Peace; Maurelhena Walles, Equity Design Inc; Eva Swan, Vocal Ease and Jennifer DiBella, Roundabout Theatre Education Dept.
read more west side stories
Kate’s Favorite Hell’s Kitchen Places
Westville — 809 9th Avenue (bw W53/54th St)
The healthy mix of fantastic food!
Giardino 54 — 400 1/2 W 54th Street (bw 9th/10th Ave)
The atmosphere, the staff is welcoming, the wine and food are wonderful, and it is tucked away off the main avenue which keeps it quieter. We love it and can’t wait to go back once we can drink again 🙂
Ardesia — 510 W52nd Street (bw 10th/11th Ave)
We love that we can bring our dog and sit outside out of the way of people passing by. One of the best outdoor seating set-ups in Midtown in our opinion, since it is set back and more secluded.
Hudson River Park
An escape from the chaos of Midtown. Calm, a variety of piers, gardens, running and biking paths, and a chance for car-free walks.
Jasper’s — 761 9th Avenue (bw W51/52nd St)
A great spot to meet up with friends! Manager Graeme is great, and in addition to the casual vibe, there are really good food options for all times of day.
Dillon Blake Photography
This is my headshot photographer who lives in Hell’s Kitchen! He’s such a warm person and deserves a shout out. 😉
Anything else you’d like to tell us?
Thank you for the opportunity!
You can follow Kate on Instagram @positively_kate & @be.bykate. If you know someone who would make a great West Side Story (or you would like to nominate yourself) please fill in this form — w42st.info/WSSnominations
You can check out more West Side Stories and reader recommendations on W42ST’s Hell’s Kitchen Local App.