BroadwayWorld Special: Over 60 of Broadway's Brightest Tell Us 'What Are You Most Thankful For?'

By: Nov. 27, 2013
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Broadway has a lot to be thankful for this year, with 41 productions having opened in 2013 and two more to go before the end of the season. Below, we bring you a classic Thanksgiving table tradition--Broadway style. BroadwayWorld brings you entries from over 60 of Broadway's brightest stars who have shared what they are most thankful for this year.

Find out why Broadway's elite will be counting their blessings this holiday season!



Wesley Taylor

Little Miss Sunshine, Smash, Rock of Ages, The Addams Family

I'm thankful for my genius onstage lover in Little Miss Sunshine, Josh Lamon.



Zachary Levi

First Date

The opportunities I've been given to make people happy. :)


Mandy Gonzalez

In the Heights, Wicked, Lennon, Dance of the Vampires

I am thankful my loved ones are happy and healthy!


Patrick Wilson

The Full Monty, Oklahoma!, All My Sons, Barefoot in the Park

I'm thankful for the time spent with my family. That, and pumpkin pie. Lots of pumpkin pie.

Brandon Ellis

Once

This year I am thankful for mine and my families health and to be doing what I love to do for a living. These are things that are easy to overlook, but are so important.


Montego Glover

Memphis, The Color Purple

I'm thankful for being cast on The Following and that I haven't been killed yet.. or have I?



Taylor Richardson

Annie

I am so thankful for my very supportive friends and family, especially my mom, dad, and little brother Sawyer who put up with my crazy vocal exercises every day! I am thankful for my extremely talented Annie family. I am also thankful for my two cats, Mittens and Sox, and my dog, Ronny!


Patti Murin

Lysistrata Jones, Love's Labours Lost

This year, I am most thankful for my family and my close friends, who have been there for me through thick and thin. Oh, and I'm also thankful that The Bachelor is coming back on in January!

Matthew Morrison

Hairspray, The Light in the Piazza, South Pacific, Glee

This past year has been a blessing for me, and I have all that I need. I'm most looking forward to spending time with my fiancé, family, and friends. So glad that I have the gift of music to enjoy and to spread around!


Allison Blackwell

A Night with Janis Joplin, The Gershwins' Porgy & Bess

I am thankful for so many things but the top 2 things I am grateful for are: 1. Having an amazing job (A Night With Janis Joplin) that has allowed me to become a better musician and actor. 2 Having the best family and friends in my life that stand by my side no matter what and challenge me to be a better person.


Scott Alan

Home

I'm most thankful for my incredible family and friends who surround me with such accessible incite. The knowledge they share continues to help me grow on a day to day basis.


Mary Michael Patterson

The Phantom of the Opera, Anything Goes, The Sound of Music

I am most thankful for the city of New York. As frustrating, smelly and exhausting as it can be, I'm grateful to live somewhere so diverse and rich with inspiration. If I'm feeling blue, I know I can go walk the High Line with a delicious cup of Intelligentsia or meander around the Strand for hours. There's not a better place on earth.


Sadie Sink

Annie

I am thankful for my family being all together again in our new home.

De'Adre Aziza

A Night with Janis Joplin, Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown, Passing Strange

My mom's support, my son's happiness, Randy Johnson's faith, and Derrick Baskin's love.


CJ Wilson

Bronx Bombers, The Voysey Inheritance

I'm most thankful for my friends.


MATILDA's Mrs. Wormwood (Played by Lesli Marguerita)

I am so thankful I don't have to microwave dinner on Thanksgiving. It is such hard work, and terrible on my nails. We have a Turkey person come in so I can use the extra time to rehearse with Rudolpho. The Turkey person gets up at 5am, and prepares the dinner in the kitchen... I think that's what that room is called. We use the same Turkey person every year. Her name is Matilda.


Nick Adams

Priscilla Queen of the Desert, La Cage Aux Folles, Guys and Dolls, Chicago

This year I've once again been reminded how thankful I am for all the wonderful people theatre brings into my life. Every time I start a new project I walk away with incredible memories and new friendships. I'm thankful that I'm surrounded by creative, remarkable artists.


Steven Pasquale

The Bridges of Madison County, Reasons to Be Pretty

This year I'm most thankful to be living and working in New York. Best city in the world.



Emily Rosenfeld

Annie

I'm thankful for my wonderful and supportive family...this includes my "Annie" family too!


Kara Lindsay

Newsies

I am most grateful for the relationships in my life: my amazing family and friends... they are the reason I breathe :). And of course, I am uber grateful for the yummy food we eat on Thanksgiving Day!

Tracee Chimo

Bad Jews, Harvey, Irena's Vow

I'm grateful for Josh Harmon for writing a female character that rivals some of the most challenging male characters to date. And to the cast members of Bad Jews, for being so uniquely incredible



Jeremy Hays

The Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables

This year has been filled with visits from friends and family. Simply walking down the street next to my Dad showing him the sights is what I'm most thankful for. Seeing the ones I love face to face makes me feel so fortunate.


Russell Fischer

Jersey Boys

This thanksgiving, I am thankful for family, the fellowship of friends and colleagues, opportunities to create and express myself, the ability to live out the truest, happiest version of myself, and to love freely.


Lea DeLaria

The Rocky Horror Show, On the Town

I am most thankful for Big Boo. Screwdrivers. The repeal of DOMA. And Natalie Portman

Kate Loprest, Wonderland, Xanadu

First Date

This year and every year, I'm thankful for my grandparents and their presence in my life. I recently turned 30 (guess that's something else to be thankful for - having made it through basically unscathed) and there has never been a day in my life that they haven't been a part of. Everything I am, I owe to them; my strength and vulnerability, my strong work ethic (German heritage), my love of story telling and making people laugh, my connection to nature, specifically to animals, my need to create and nurture, and most importantly, the ability to enjoy the simple things. Unfortunately, all 3 of my grandparents have been battling major health crisis' this year. It is evident now, more than ever in my life, that every minute I share with them precious. This year, more than ever, I am most thankful for them.


Kelli O'Hara

The Bridges of Madison County, South Pacific, The Light in the Piazza

I am thankful for my husband, my children, spanx, coffee and the chance to make music, but not always in the same order.


Jennifer Cody

Shrek, The Pajama Game, Taboo, Seassical

I am most thankful that our home has become a haven for our friends and family. Each Thanksgiving, I am reminded that we have created a home that our friends, our parents, our siblings and even a slew of dogs come to often and consider it as much their home as ours.long live The Hot Pee house!

Eric Anderson

Soul Doctor, Kinky Boots

I'm most thankful for the family I've gained, blood and otherwise, this year. And salmon. Raw and glorious, salmon. #bearnecessities


Anika Larsen

Beautiful, Xanadu, All Shook Up

I am thankful for my colon, or as I now affectionately refer to it, my semi-colon. In August, four days into rehearsal for Beautiful - The Carole King Musical, I had to have emergency surgery to have 8 inches of it removed. If I'd waited 5-10 hours to go to the hospital, my colon would have burst and I would have died. So I'm also grateful to be alive. And incredibly grateful to everyone involved with Beautiful, since they helped make it possible for me to recover on the job. But as your turkey and stuffing successfully pass through you this year, you should take a moment to be grateful for your colon too.


Brooklyn Shuck

Annie

I'm thankful for what my family has sacrificed to let me live my dream!

Will Van Dyke

Kinky Boots, The Addams Family

I'm most grateful for my KINKY BOOTS family. It's so wonderful to work with a group of people who care so passionately about the show, from the actors and musicians to the entire crew!

Kyli Rae

Jersey Boys

I'm most thankful for being a part of such an amazing show, and all of the incredible opportunities it has brought to my life. I reached two major milestones in my career this year due to my involvement with the show. I recently had my Broadway debut playing the role of Lorraine in Jersey Boys, at the August Wilson theater. I also had the experience of shooting my first feature film, where I will be playing the role of the Lead Angel, singing My Boyfriend's Back, in the screen adaptation of Jersey Boys, directed by Clint Eastwood. I am beyond grateful.


Charl Brown

Motown, Sister Act

I am most thankful for being able to attend the Tony Awards for the first time this year, not only as a performer but also a nominee! And getting to share that experience with the people that I love most and have been my biggest supporters over the long journey to that dream come true!

Chris Henry Coffey

Bronx Bombers, Frank's Home

I try not to take things for granted, though inevitably, by posing the question, it does give me a moment to reflect and articulate what it is I'm truly most thankful for - and it changes every year. This year, I was reminded how delicate and lucky I am to have my good & strong health. I was reminded of how important family is: parents, siblings, nieces & nephews - to reach out whenever possible, near and far, to express the love and appreciation of a family I'm so inspired by. I was reminded of how little time we have here and to appreciate the smaller things in the day-to-day: a good meal, a warm apartment full of love, friendly neighbors, and the love of my life to share it all with. I was reminded of how through hardship, real friendship and love flourishes. And finally, I was reminded of how truly lucky I am to be doing what I love to do - not only as a profession, but as a way of life. I have so, so much to be thankful for indeed.

Liz Larsen

Beautiful, Hairspray, The Rocky Horror Show

All my son (who is now 17) ever wanted to do was play sports, and I couldn't have been happy. But about eight month ago, he got involved in a teen theatre company that does very high end productions, called kidz theatre. (Forget the name. The talent and the work ethic are both off the hook.) Being an actor is now all he wants! So what I'm most grateful for this year: BEFORE kidz theatre: "Mom, if you are so talented, why aren't you rich or famous?" NOW: "No one can believe you are actually my mom!"

Andy Karl

Rocky, Jersey Boys, The Mystery of Edwin Drood, Legally Blonde

So thankful that I only had to act and sing at the Rocky auditions. Sylvester Stallone could have asked me to fight him to get the part then we'd all be reading my obituary. Did you see Expendables? Man!...that guy still "throws down". He has my utmost respect and profound thanks.

Michele McConnell

The Phantom of the Opera

This year, I am most thankful for making sure I spent more time with my family back home in Indiana. Thanks, PHANTOM, for giving me the extra time off! ;)

Kirsten Scott

Big Fish

This year I am most thankful for the chance to bring Jenny Hill to life while swimming nightly with my big beautiful Big Fish family. I am so blessed to have this new family of fishes in my life!

Cast of La Soiree

We, the half-naked, completely naked, latex-covered, leathered-up, sparkled, muscular and dripping wet cast of LA SOIRÉE give thanks to New York City for welcoming us into your bosom (literally), and for the warmth and hospitality you've shown us. Forget post-Thanksgiving shopping. After dinner, you'll find us misbehaving at the Union Square Theatre that night. Much more fun than being trampled at a discount outlet. We promise.


Aaron Nelson

The Lion King

I'm most grateful for my beautiful wife, my amazing son, and being able to do what I love for a living!

Dominic Scaglione, Jr.

Jersey Boys

I'm most thankful for my family living and passed that keep me inspired and protected. I'm also thankful for my bongo drum.


Stevie Holland

Love, Linda: The Life of Mrs. Cole Porter

I'm most thankful that my Mom survived grueling cancer surgery, and that my family will be blessed by her loving presence for much longer. I could leave it at that, but having the gift of a wonderfully creative husband and collaborator, Gary William Friedman, and the opportunity to work with the super talented Richard Maltby, Jr., in bringing our show LOVE, LINDA, back into the world, leaves me filled with even deeper gratitude this year.

Brandon Victor Dixon

Motown, Rent, The Color Purple

I'm most thankful for time. Time to figure it out. Time to get better. Time to show my appreciation to those who help me along the way...time.



Tommy Bracco

Newsies

Being an Italian family guy who is still a kid at heart, I am most thankful for my family, my mom's baked ziti and Walt Disney World!


Bianca Amato

Macbeth, Arcadia, The Coast of Utopia

I'm thankful for ongoing possibilities and new experiences.

N'Kenge

Motown, Sondheim on Sondheim

I'm most thankful of having the best of both musical worlds this year. In addition to being in Motown, I was able to fit orchestral and opera performances in my schedule whereas in the past I always had to choose. I'm also a native New Yorker so being home for the holidays is such a great thing and being able to spend it with family and friends I've grown up with!

Justin Matthew Sargent

Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark, Rock of Ages

I'm most thankful for marrying my best friend, this year!

Desmond Richardson

After Midnight, The Look of Love, Movin' Out, Fosse

What I am most "Thankful for this year "is the opportunity to be back on the Broadway Stage In the hit production of "AfterMidnight " the entire family that surrounds this production is quite extraordinary and I'm honored and humbled to be a part.


Chantel Riley

The Lion King

I am so grateful that I am working in a place I have always dreamed of and doing what I love to do. I am also so grateful for the amazing friends that I have met here in New York. Since I am originally from Toronto and all my family and friends are there it is so amazing to have awesome people here that I can now call my family.


Rebecca Henderson

Too Much, Too Much, Too Many

I am thankful for many things, but in this moment I am feeling the most thankful for my loving generous hilarious genius perfect beautiful friends.


Ciara Renee

Big Fish

I am, of course, most thankful for the opportunity to perform in my first Broadway musical, and to do it with such an amazing cast, crew and creative team. #bigfishisrad

Kacee Clanton

A night with Janis Joplin

I am profoundly grateful to be living my art. It's a blessing to make a living as a singer on any level, but I am truly humbled to be part of such an amazing production on Broadway. Living the dream baby!

Bryan Terrell Clark

Motown

I'm thankful for family and time! My family suffered two great losses this year. It's made me grateful for every moment I have, and all the people with whom I share those special moments.

Skye Alyssa Friedman

Annie

I am thankful for my family, friends, their never-ending support, and the opportunity to spend this Thanksgiving on Broadway and in NYC, my favorite place in the world!


Josephine Rose Roberts

Rock of Ages, How the Grinch Stole Christmas!

I am most thankful for my families, at Rock of Ages and at home in Ohio.


Dee Dee Bridgewater

Lady Day, The Wiz

I am most grateful for the chance to spend this season with Billie Holiday at the Little Shubert Theatre and ‎for the opportunity to use her dramatic acting chops.

Bree Branker

Big Fish

As cheesy as it sounds - the answer is without a doubt my Big Fish family. It was around this time last year that I found out I would be a part of the show, and to look back on the last calendar year is eye opening. I never expected the lessons, relationships, hard times, laugh until you cry and maybe pee a little times... We've been through a lot as a company, and it is because of these people and their work that made my Broadway debut so special.

Andrew Call

Rock of Ages, American Idiot, Glory Days, Cry Baby

I am thankful for my Family most of all. But my friends and acquaintances that have come into my life and served to make it better throughout the year are a close second. Thank you one and all.

Ellen Harvey

The Phantom of the Opera, How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, The Music Man

I am so thankful that my parents are both healthy and happy. They celebrated their 50th Anniversary this year and I couldn't be more proud. Oh, and that my dog has stopped chewing up things.


Sara Chase

First Date, The Toxic Avenger

I am most thankful for the most amazing Broadway experience this year and all the people involved...and seeing Zachary Levi shirtless.


Amaya Braganza

Annie

I am thankful for my family and the many blessings I received this year like the friends I have, the new friends I've made and the opportunity of being part of the wonderful Annie musical production.

Marva Hicks

Motown, Caroline, or Change, The Lion King

I am so thankful this year for answered prayer. Motown The Musical has been a prayer answered for me. With the unpredictable twists and turns in our careers, we have to always remain hopeful that we will get work in this chosen profession of ours. I have been blessed with great survival jobs to get through the tough days. But nothing compares to working in a hit show! To be chosen by a director and the creator of a project is a gift. I like presents and I loved the process of opening this one up. I am thankful for the people that believe in me. I am for people who never give up on people. It is a valuable lesson I have learned this year. We all have value no matter what we are doing or what we have to do to survive. I am thankful for the lessons I have learned being in a large company of people that I value and I strive to always show each of them the respect they deserve. #believe


Karine Plantadit

After Midnight, Come Fly Away, Saturday Night Fever

What I most thankful for the year is the legacy I'm part off... I get to carry the torch of one human being 's dream, aspiration , spark, struggle and vision every night when I hear stand by..... ladies and gentlemen welcome to After Midnight


Tyrah Skye Odoms

Annie

I am thankful for a lot of stuff! Most of all my family and friends both off (home), and on Broadway (community)and the continued support and encouragement that help me reach my dreams!


Alton Fitzgerald White

The Lion King, The Color Purple

What I am most grateful for this year is the gift of still being a part of an amazing, hit show that not only allows me to exercise what I love to do at least 8 times a week and affords me a great life in NYC, but also allows me to take wonderful care of my favorite person on this planet, My Phenomenal Mother, Marietta White!


Ellyn Marie Marsh

Kinky Boots, Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Enron

I'm thankful for my daughter and husband and their good health. I'm thankful for good friends, and a fun working environment at Kinky Boots. I'm thankful that Schmakery's is on the same block as the theater, and that I don't have to wear a corset in this show! And I'm thankful Obama got re-elected. He IS my homeboy."


Leah Hofmann

Big Fish, War Horse

I am thankful for pumpkin spice donuts and also for my devoted parents who continue to love and encourage me through all of my endeavors.

Kellen Blair

Murder for Two

I'm thankful to have parents who taught me to prioritize "following your dream" over more rational considerations like food and money and stuff.



Kate Rockwell

Rock of Ages, Bring It On, Hair, Legally Blonde

I would say I'm most thankful this year for my fiancé Spencer, who takes such great care of me and our little dog, and who I cannot wait to marry next year!



Anthony Pierini

Big Fish, Mary Poppins

My family! Without them I wouldn't have been able to be in Big fish! I am also thankful that my friends and cast mates are healthy!

Gaby Bradbury

Annie

I'm thankful for family, friends, and for this opportunity.



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