To many “Gleeks,” seeing their favorite stars on the hit TV show Glee was only an introduction to the wonders of the musical world today. Now, many years after the airing of Glee, multiple of the cast members are starring in Broadway or off-Broadway performances. Darren Criss, Lea Michele, Jonathan Groff, and Kevin McHale all take the stage for amazing performances each night. To many, it’s not just the performances themselves; it’s that these performers continue to work hard, grow as actors, and use their craft to connect with audiences.
Darren Criss, whom many know as Blaine from Glee, is actively starring in the hit Broadway musical Maybe Happy Ending, a relatively new musical about two “helperbots” building a connection in their own futuristic world. Criss’ character deeply connects to Blaine through his character development, identity, and expression of love. His performance earned him a Tony Award for “Best Actor in a Musical,” exemplifying how hard work pays off in musical theater.
Similarly, Lea Michele, who took on the leading role of Rachel Berry in Glee, stars now as Florence Vassy in Chess, which is known for a dramatic story and powerful performance, similar to Rachel’s personality and strength in Glee. Michele also took on the role of Fanny Brice in Funny Girl back in 2022. Franny’s role is specifically considered one of the “most difficult and demanding roles,” but it is no match for an actress as talented as Michele. All of these characters are ambitious women with strong voices that are driven by passion and confidence. 
Just like Rachel, her character in Chess balances love, competition, and striving for success. As Michele takes the stage, her vocal power stuns the audience each night, leaving viewers in awe and reviews of the show amazing.
In addition, Kevin McHale, best known for his role of Artie Abrams on Glee, took his talents to live theater, similarly to his fellow castmates. As of 2025, McHale performs as William Barfée in the off-Broadway revival of 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Though it is his first New York debut, his abilities in musical comedy and ensemble teamwork have made a huge impact on crowds. The comedic musical is about a group of middle schoolers competing in a country spelling bee; as the words get relatively harder, it frames the challenges and how to overcome them. Just like Artie, McHale’s character is funny and energetic, showing that his sense of humor extends beyond television.
Finally, Jonathan Groff, who played Jesse St. James in Glee, is starring in a lead role in Just In Time. The musical—concerning Bobby Darin’s life and his rise to fame as a performer in the 1950s and 60s—captures his hit songs, relationships, and health struggles that helped grow his career. Groff’s role requires vocal strength, charisma, and emotional depth, commonly portrayed by Jesse in Glee.
Just like many LM students learning voice, acting, and movements, performers like Criss, Michele, McHale, and Groff are strong inspirations. LM students who attend rehearsals after school or practice scenes with good friends are doing the same work that these professionals take part in each night. And, whether you’re performing in front of parents or audiences in New York City, theater continues to connect people through emotion, storytelling, and shared experiences. For me, seeing former Glee members on Broadway is inspiring and captures just how powerful live performances can be.
