Broadway performers, although accustomed to wearing costumes nightly for their roles, also find time to celebrate Halloween with inventive outfits. This year, notable figures from Broadway and beyond embraced the spirit of the holiday, dressing up for various events and backstage moments, showcasing creativity and homage to iconic characters.
Among the most talked-about costumes were those inspired by musical theater and Hollywood legends, capturing the attention of fans and followers alike.
Jonathan Groff, Sarah Hyland, and Sadie Dickerson Tribute the Chess Playbill
Tony Award recipient Jonathan Groff donned a costume as a nod to his close friend and former Glee co-star Lea Michele, who currently stars in the Broadway revival of Chess. Groff posed alongside Sarah Hyland and Sadie Dickerson, both of whom wore hats shaped like chess pieces, reflecting the imagery seen on the show’s Playbill and promotional materials.
Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter Honor Sunset Boulevard During Waiting for Godot
In a creative crossover, Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter, stars of the Waiting for Godot revival on Broadway, paid tribute to Jamie Lloyd’s recent bloody reinterpretation of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Sunset Boulevard. During their curtain call, the overture from Sunset Boulevard played in the background, linking their current production with a memorable previous revival known for its striking visual style, including shirtless bowing amidst theatrical blood effects.
This gesture connected the two revivals, both directed by Lloyd, the latter also involving a similar dramatic scene in the London Palladium’s production of Evita, where the star, Diego Andres Rodriguez, appeared shirtless and covered in a blue fluid.
Jenna Bainbridge and Danny Quadrino Bring Dr. Seuss Characters to Life
In a charming pairing, Wicked performers Jenna Bainbridge and Danny Quadrino dressed as Thing 1 and Thing 2 from Dr. Seuss’s classic stories. Their costumes cleverly echoed the playful and mischievous dynamic between their stage characters, Nessarose and Boq, highlighting their onstage chemistry with a Halloween twist.
Lin-Manuel Miranda Joins the TikTok Hamilton Trend
Original creator and star of Hamilton, Lin-Manuel Miranda, embraced a viral TikTok trend that sees fans imitating his iconic performance while lip-syncing to “It’s Quiet Uptown” and crawling through a window. Miranda’s Halloween look humorously referenced this phenomenon, blending his theatrical legacy with online culture.
Ariana DeBose Channels Elizabeth Taylor’s Glamour
Oscar-winning actress Ariana DeBose chose to embody classic Hollywood elegance by dressing up as Elizabeth Taylor. This costume paid tribute to one of pop culture’s most glamorous icons, fitting perfectly with DeBose’s own celebrated status in the entertainment world.
Ben Platt and Noah Galvin’s Playful Playboy-Themed Couple’s Costume
Tony Award winner Ben Platt and his husband, Noah Galvin, known for his role in Dear Evan Hansen, opted for a cheeky Halloween nod to Playboy culture. Platt wore a 1970s-style robe and sunglasses, while Galvin complemented the look dressed as a Playboy Bunny in a one-piece corset and fishnets. Their coordinated costumes exemplify the duo’s flair for making bold, memorable appearances both on and off the stage.
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This year’s Halloween on Broadway not only celebrated the holiday but also honored theatrical history and popular culture through thoughtful, playful costumes. As these stars continue to captivate audiences with their performances, their Halloween looks offer fans a glimpse into their creativity and camaraderie. Moving forward, such celebrations highlight the vibrant energy of Broadway both on and off the stage, contributing to the community’s enduring appeal.
