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February 20.2025
3 Minutes Read

Sarah Hyland’s Journey: From Fifth Grade Reader to Broadway Star in The Great Gatsby

Sarah Hyland smiling in an elegant outfit in a TV studio

How Sarah Hyland’s Early Love for Literature Shaped Her Role

As the curtain rises on Broadway's first musical adaptation of The Great Gatsby, audience members are treated not only to lavish sets and mesmerizing music but also to the fresh energy of Sarah Hyland in the role of Daisy Buchanan. In a recent interview, Hyland reflected on how her fascination with literature blossomed at an early age, revealing that she first encountered F. Scott Fitzgerald's iconic novel back in fifth grade. "I read the book...when I was in fifth grade," Hyland shared, a nostalgic smile breaking across her face. This revelation highlights a deep connection to the material, showing that her passion for storytelling was ignited long before stepping into the spotlight.

Exploring Daisy Buchanan: A Complex Character

Hyland's portrayal of Daisy is particularly compelling due to the character’s rich psychological depth. "Daisy Buchanan is such a beautifully complex, delicious woman in the 1920s...It's such a wonderful exploration of female characters in this musical...,” she explained. This nuanced view reflects a growing trend in contemporary theater that seeks to develop multidimensional portrayals of women, moving away from traditional stereotypes. Audiences not only witness Daisy's charm but also her struggles and aspirations, making her a relatable figure in today's context.

The Journey from TV Star to Broadway Leading Lady

Fans of Hyland might know her best from her role as Haley Dunphy in ABC’s Modern Family, but her journey to Broadway has been a rich tapestry of experiences. Before stepping into the dazzling world of The Great Gatsby, she made her professional debut as Jackie Bouvier in Grey Gardens at age 16 and portrayed Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors. Each role has not only honed her craft but has also prepared her for the demanding role of Daisy, demonstrating Hyland's resilience and passion for theater.

The Great Gatsby: A Musical for the Modern Audience

As The Great Gatsby celebrates its first Broadway adaptation, it’s worth noting how the production integrates classic literature into a contemporary musical format. With music and lyrics penned by Jason Howland and Nathan Tysen, the adaptation resonates with 21st-century sensibilities while retaining the thematic essence of Fitzgerald’s work. This fusion of old and new has garnered interest not just from theatergoers, but from literary fans eager to see how this timeless story translates to music and stage.

Theater’s Evolving Landscape: Women in Leadership Roles

The production of The Great Gatsby reflects a broader shift in the theater industry towards elevating female voices both on and off the stage. With strong female characters being at the forefront and women leading many creative teams—like Kait Kerrigan writing the book and Dominique Kelley choreographing—the show represents a changing narrative in theater. This evolution promises not only to engage audiences but also to inspire a new generation of theater makers, encouraging them to tell stories that explore diverse and complex female experiences.

Hyland’s heartfelt association with The Great Gatsby sets the stage for an exciting Broadway adventure that bridges the gap between classic literature and contemporary performance. As she dives into the complexities of Daisy Buchanan, audiences can look forward to a performance rich with emotional depth and artistic integrity. Theatre lovers should seize the opportunity to witness this landmark production that brilliantly showcases the evolving narrative of American theater.

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08.20.2025

Broadway Grosses This Week: MAMMA MIA! Rises as a New Hit!

Update MAMMA MIA! Shakes Up Broadway's Grosses The lights are shining brighter than ever on Broadway as MAMMA MIA! launched its much-anticipated revival at the Winter Garden Theatre, concluding the week ending August 17, 2025, with a staggering $1.6 million in grosses. This placed the show in the top five highest-grossing productions of the week, showcasing its powerful re-entry into the hearts of theatre-goers. Capacity and Attendance Fluctuations With 29 shows playing this past week, Broadway saw a total of 245,807 tickets sold and combined grosses amounting to $29,790,665. This week, attendance dipped by 2.31% compared to last week, sparking discussions among producers, artists, and fans regarding the overall health of the theatre scene. While MAMMA MIA! enjoyed modest attendance growth (up 0.3%), the departure of GYPSY led to a general surge in capacities among other productions. Shifts in the Top and Bottom Grossing Shows The ultimate leaders of the pack remain HAMILTON and WICKED, pulling in $2.2 million and $2 million, respectively. Meanwhile, GYPSY concluded its run this week, and though it was highly regarded, it still faced a decline leading to its closure, contributing to only $1.6 million in gross for its final week. The shift in dynamics raises the question: will these veteran shows maintain their dominance against the ever-changing landscape of Broadway? Insights on Ticket Pricing and Market Trends The average ticket price on Broadway hovered at $121.20, a slight decrease from the week prior. This number underscores the delicate balance between pricing strategy and audience engagement, as theatre enthusiasts weigh their options against a multitude of performances vying for attention. The most expensive show to secure a spot on Broadway was JUST IN TIME, averaging ticket sales of $227.49. The Emotional Connection to Theater The fluctuating grosses may seem merely numbers on a page, but behind those figures lie the stories of lives transformed through unforgettable experiences. Each show, from MAMMA MIA! to the newly launched JEFF ROSS: TAKE A BANANA FOR THE RIDE, is a chapter in a larger narrative that resonates with audiences. As Broadway continues to adapt and evolve, the connection to these productions often transcends ticket sales, hinting at a cultural and emotional anchor amid a sea of entertainment options. As the curtain closes on another week, Broadway remains not only a platform for incredible storytelling but a reflection of the collective sentiments of its audience. The surge of MAMMA MIA! combined with the farewell of GYPSY serves as a reminder of the dynamic nature of theatrical production where victory and closure intermingle.

08.19.2025

Experience the Magic of Die Mommie Die! with Stars at Sharon Playhouse

Update Die Mommie Die! Returns for a Special Benefit Reading The Sharon Playhouse is set to host an exciting, one-night-only staged reading of the cult classic Die Mommie Die!, written by Charles Busch. This special event will occur on September 12 at 7:00 p.m. in The Bobbie Olsen Theater, promising attendees a delightful evening of theatrics and laughter. A Star-Studded Cast to Bring the Comedy to Life Among the notable performers gracing the stage are Charles Busch himself, who will reprise his iconic role as Angela Arden, alongside Richard Kind, known for his role in Curb Your Enthusiasm, and Tony Award-winners like Celia Keenan-Bolger, recognized for To Kill a Mockingbird. Additionally, the ensemble features two-time Tony nominee Kristine Nielsen, Andrew Keenan-Bolger from Newsies, and Claybourne Elder of the musical Company. This remarkable cast promises to deliver the humor and drama that has made Die Mommie Die! a beloved staple. A Cult Classic That Has Stood the Test of Time Originally premiering in Los Angeles in 1999, Die Mommie Die! has evolved into a celebrated cult favorite, characterized by its parody of classic film thrillers. With its eclectic mix of scheming heirs, questionable romantic interests, and unexpected plot twists, the reading is sure to captivate both longtime fans and newcomers alike. Artistic Director Carl Andress shares, “It will be an unforgettable night of laughter, glamour, and pure theatrical fun.” Supporting a Good Cause Through Theatre Not only will the audience enjoy a fabulous performance, but all proceeds from the reading will benefit the Sharon Playhouse’s productions and educational programs. Such initiatives are essential for fostering the arts within the community, ensuring ongoing access to theatrical experiences and educational opportunities for aspiring talents. Get Your Tickets for a Night to Remember Tickets for this unique event are now available online at sharonplayhouse.org/die-mommie-die or by calling (860) 364-7469 ext. 200/201. Given the star power and the charitable cause, seating is expected to fill up quickly, so be sure to secure your spot for an evening of theatrical excitement!

08.18.2025

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