Matthew Morrison has made a much-anticipated return to Broadway after a ten-year hiatus, stepping into the spotlight as Bobby Darin in the musical “Just In Time.” This limited engagement at the Circle in the Square Theatre runs for three weeks, allowing Morrison to showcase his talents as he breathes life into the character of the iconic singer known for hits like “Beyond the Sea” and “Mack the Knife.”
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In a conversation with PEOPLE prior to his debut on April 1, Morrison expressed his feelings about returning to the stage, stating that the experience feels like a homecoming. He reflected on his absence from theatre, noting that it has profoundly affected his approach to performance. “I feel like there’s so much more gratitude and a lot less ego,” he remarked. This shift in perspective has made him aware of nervousness in a constructive manner, regarding it as a reminder of his passion for live performance.
Morrison, an Emmy and Tony Award-nominated actor, commanded the attention of the audience with his powerful vocals and charismatic stage presence. He adeptly navigated Darin’s repertoire, blending high-energy performance with poignant introspection, bringing depth to the character beyond just a musical tribute. His stagecraft has been recognised as a seamless mix of charisma and control, which contributed to an electric atmosphere during his opening night.
The actor’s return to Circle in the Square holds personal significance, as he last graced the venue over twenty years ago in “The Rocky Horror Show.” His Broadway journey began with productions like “Footloose” and “Hairspray,” and he earned his first Tony nomination for “The Light in the Piazza.” His ability to embody a range of characters has established Morrison as a leading man in the industry, making his comeback all the more poignant.
Morrison has taken over the role of Bobby Darin from Jonathan Groff, who received critical acclaim and a Tony nomination for his portrayal. While the new cast member looks to honour Groff’s hard work, he aims to infuse his own interpretations into the role. Acknowledging the challenges of following in another actor’s footsteps, Morrison expressed admiration for Groff’s performance, stating, “Jonathan set the bar so incredibly high in the best way.”
Despite not receiving direct advice from Groff, Morrison has drawn inspiration from the spirit and energy that Groff instilled in the production. He pointed out that rather than reinventing the performance, his focus is on joining the “beautiful conversation” that has already been established within the show. As he prepared for his first night, the excitement for the role was palpable, and Morrison was eager to embrace this unique opportunity.
In addition to Morrison, the cast also features notable talents such as Isa Briones and Debbie Gravitte, who together create a vibrant ensemble for “Just In Time.” The production is directed by Tony Award winner Alex Timbers and is noted for its heartfelt and cohesive design. Morrison emphasised the meticulous effort that went into the show, recognising the collaborative spirit of the creative team.
Looking ahead, Morrison shared a desire to savour this new chapter in his career in a way he hasn’t done before. “I’m actually enjoying not trying to be perfect in this process,” he stated, underscoring a newfound focus on being present rather than fixating on future opportunities. This philosophical shift, he believes, has liberating benefits as he engages fully with the material and the audience, aiming to create genuine connections through live performance.
Morrison’s stint in “Just In Time” spans from April 1 to April 19, with Jeremy Jordan set to take over the role of Bobby Darin after Morrison concludes his run. Tickets are available for those keen to experience this exciting revival that pays homage to a legendary figure in American music while showcasing the talents of a beloved Broadway star.
Through this return to the stage, Matthew Morrison not only reignites his career but also brings fresh insights into an iconic role, making his performances a compelling part of Broadway’s vibrant landscape once again.