Seeing Elaine's performance in this was a master class in storytelling. No fancy set or costume…just a stool and tons of talent. I was a young actor starting out when this show was on Broadway. Talk about inspiring!
Of course, every performance in this show is outstanding, but I was thrilled to see Leslie shining in this role. He projects a smooth confidence and an almost dangerous ambitiousness, but underneath all of that is a world of insecurity and inadequacy. It makes for an exciting character.
Celia Keenan-Bolger in The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
It's hard to pick which of Celia's many amazing roles is my favorite. She is great in everything. I will always have a soft spot for her Olive Ostrovsky. As her character opens up throughout the play, you discover a more unsettling insight into this girl who you just thought was adorable and innocent. I saw this show probably six times.
Victoria Clark in The Light in the Piazza
When Victoria Clark started singing "Dividing Day" with that cigarette in her hand in the middle of this gorgeous musical, I was no longer in a theatre, but inside of her hotel room. She just pulled me into the sad struggle of this character, and I was blown away.
Alex Sharp in The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
I mean, what can I say? This performance was so captivating, committed and brilliant. His execution of the role was virtuosic — I don't know how he did that every day.
Chita Rivera in Kiss of the Spider Woman
This was the very first Broadway show I attended, and I've seen Chita in many shows since. This was Broadway showmanship at its best. I'll never forget her setting that stage on fire with "Where You Are."
Christian Borle in Peter and the Starcatcher
Christian's performance was wildly inventive and dynamic — both vocally and physically. I'll never forget him saying, "Oh my God. Oh my God…" for minutes at a time onstage and making me laugh with every variation.
Lin-Manuel Miranda in Hamilton
I look up to Lin-Manuel so much. Of course, it's astounding to think he wrote the book, lyrics and music of this show, but it can never be overlooked that he is a fantastic actor. He takes the audience on a complex ride into the heart and soul of this historic figure.
Kelli O'Hara in The Bridges of Madison County
This exquisite actress lights up any stage she sets foot on. In Bridges, she had that uncanny ability to make the audience internalize her struggle. You felt what she was feeling in your own heart.
She was center stage for probably ten minutes, and yet her performance brought me to tears, and had me jumping to my feet in the middle of her number. Anyone who saw this production knows exactly what I'm talking about!
