Lea Michele shares how Idina Menzel has been an inspiration for her latest role in the iconic Broadway musical “Chess”. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Michele opened up about the influence Menzel had on her decision to take on the character of Florence Vassy in the Broadway revival of “Chess”.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/lea-michele-idina-menzel-112025-661ea06e5e9b4066a031752a6b5f3660.jpg)
The former “Glee” star expressed her admiration for Menzel, citing her performance of the song “Nobody’s Sides” from “Chess” as a pivotal moment that motivated her to pursue the role. Michele, 39, recalled hearing Menzel sing the number and feeling compelled to perform it herself every night. The bond between the two actresses goes beyond the stage, as Menzel played Michele’s biological mother in several episodes of “Glee”, further deepening their connection.
Michele’s involvement in “Chess” marks a significant milestone in her career, as she navigates the challenges of balancing motherhood with her passion for performing. The actress, who is a mother of two, acknowledged the difficulty of being away from her children but expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work with a talented cast and bring her character to life on stage.
The Broadway revival of “Chess” features an ensemble cast including Aaron Tveit and Nicholas Christopher, telling a riveting tale of two chess champions embroiled in a high-stakes battle with a woman caught in the middle. The musical boasts music by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus of ABBA, along with lyrics by Ulvaeus and Tim Rice, offering audiences a captivating blend of storytelling and music.
Michele’s journey from her days on “Glee” to the Broadway stage reflects the ongoing success of the show’s cast members, with fellow alumni such as Jonathan Groff and Darren Criss also making waves in the theatre world. The camaraderie among the former “Glee” stars serves as a testament to their collective talent and enduring friendships.
As Michele immerses herself in her role as Florence Vassy, she embraces the challenges and rewards of performing in a beloved musical that resonates with audiences. “Chess” provides her with a platform to showcase her vocal prowess and acting skills, captivating theatregoers with each compelling performance.
With tickets for “Chess” now available, audiences have the opportunity to witness Michele’s portrayal of Florence Vassy and experience the magic of the iconic musical. Michele’s tribute to Menzel and her dedication to her craft underscore her commitment to delivering a memorable performance that honours both the character and the production.
In a poignant reflection on her latest creative endeavour, Michele’s collaboration with Menzel serves as a poignant reminder of the lasting impact of mentorship and inspiration in the world of theatre. As she continues to explore new horizons in her career, Michele’s connection to Menzel remains a source of strength and motivation as she takes on the challenges and triumphs of the Broadway stage.