Musicals have been a staple of the entertainment world since their inception more than a century ago. During this time, the genre has seen many of the world’s most iconic actors, singers, and dancers rise to fame from their starring roles in these spectacular productions. It’s no surprise then that some of the most famous actors in history are those that have graced the stages of musical theatre for years. If you were thinking of checking out a betting company, you’ll want to change your focus to theater companies—here are some of the best figures in the musical field.
Hugh Jackman
An obvious start would be the one and only Hugh Jackman. Jackman has been a theatre star for decades, and his roles in the original production of The Boy From Oz and his award-winning turn as Jean Valjean in Les Miserables have cemented his place in the history of musical theatre. Jackman’s charm and charisma have been unmistakable in every role he’s taken, and there’s something special about seeing him in a musical.
Julie Andrews
Chances are you’ve heard of the one and only Julie Andrews, who is probably the most well-known musical theatre star of her generation. She made her Broadway debut in 1954 in the musical The Boy Friend and later won the Tony Award for Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Musical for her iconic role in the hit My Fair Lady. She also had success in numerous other musicals such as Camelot, Victor Victoria, and The Sound of Music, in which she won a Golden Globe and an Academy Award for Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role.
Idina Menzel
Another name that comes to mind is Idina Menzel. After her breakout performance as Maureen in Rent in the late 90s, Menzel has become a Broadway phenomenon and a household name. She was a Tony Award winner for her role as Elphaba in Wicked and has since starred in other musicals like If/Then and her current role as Donna Sheridan in Mamma Mia!
Eddie Redmayne
Eddie Redmayne has proven himself to be one of the most distinctive and versatile actors of our time. He earned his first Tony Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role for his extraordinary performance as Tevye in the recent production of Fiddler on the Roof. This is just another reason that Redmayne is so beloved by theatergoers and his peers alike.
Bette Midler
Bette Midler is another musical theatre star who has enjoyed much success over the years. She debuted on Broadway in 1972’s Fiddler on the Roof, and since then she has gone on to win several Tony Awards for her performances in musicals such as Hello Dolly, A Little Night Music, and most recently The Golden Girls: The Musical. She has also enjoyed success in film as well, proving that she can tackle any role with ease.
Gene Kelly
Finally, no list of musical theatre’s most famous stars would be complete without the man behind the classic film Singin’ in the Rain. Gene Kelly made his Broadway debut in 1945 and won his first Tony Award in 1953 for his performance in the musical Theanna. His other famous stage roles include roles in Anchors Aweigh, Brigadoon, and Can-Can. He also wrote and choreographed various iconic musical numbers including the much-loved Singin’ in the Rain and Embraceable You.
These renowned musical theatre stars have become ingrained in the culture, and their influence on the genre can be felt to this day. While there are many other stars in the musical theatre world, these three are among the most celebrated, and they remain an inspiration to aspiring actors, singers, and dancers. So if you dream of stepping onto one of the world’s most famous stages, remember the names and performances of these unforgettable musical theatre stars.