Heather Morris, well-known for her role as Brittany Pierce in the hit TV series “Glee,” is making a noteworthy return to the stage. The actress and dancer, now 39, has joined the cast of the Off-Broadway production “11 to Midnight,” a dance show that revisits her roots in performance. This new venture comes after many years of focusing on acting, and it appears to excite her as she reconnects with her dancing background.
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In a recent conversation with PEOPLE magazine, Morris reflected on the lasting friendships she formed during her time on “Glee,” which has been over a decade since the show ended. Among her fondest memories, she highlighted the importance of the off-set moments shared with her fellow cast members. “It would be the in-between moments, like being in the makeup trailer or getting lunch together or going and grabbing coffee,” she reminisced, noting that they often ventured out to Larchmont for lunch breaks. These personal interactions, she believes, define her experience more than any on-screen moment.
Morris’s character, Brittany, was known for her quirky lines and memorable quotes, many of which still resonate with fans. When asked about her favourite line from the show, she noted how her preferences have evolved over the years. Initially, she adored the humorous line, “Dolphins are just gay sharks,” but now she holds dear the poignant phrase, “Stop the violence.” This line, delivered during a tense scene in Season 2, illustrates her character’s innocent approach to conflict. “She doesn’t know how to deal with it,” Morris explained, highlighting the depth of Brittany’s character despite her comedic nature.
In “11 to Midnight,” Morris is stepping into a role that allows her to showcase her dancing skills rather than engage in singing—as was the case on “Glee.” The show, co-created by the duo of Austin and Marideth Telenko along with Hideaway Circus founders Josh and Lyndsay Aviner, promises to be a new and invigorating experience for the actress.
Morris remains well-connected with her former castmates, who continue to thrive in the theatre scene. Notably, Lea Michele is currently starring in the musical “Chess,” while Kevin McHale features in “The 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee.” Similarly, Darren Criss recently won a Tony Award for his performance in “Maybe Happy Ending,” and Matthew Morrison has stepped into the role of Bobby Darin in “Just In Time.”
In her personal life, Morris has kept the lines of communication open with her “Glee” friends. Just the other day, she was in touch with McHale, whom she affectionately expressed her desire to meet up with again. “I was just texting Kevin this morning. I’m trying to get him to hang out with me at any chance,” she shared. Her connection with Morrison goes beyond their time on set, as she revealed that her husband, Taylor Hubbell, mentored Morrison in woodworking during the pandemic.
Morris expressed her enthusiasm about seeing her friends on Broadway. “I’m going to see Matthew Morrison in ‘Just In Time.’ I love him to pieces,” she stated, underlining the strong bonds that remain from their time together on “Glee.”
With the excitement of performing again, Morris is eager about her new role in “11 to Midnight.” When asked if any of her longstanding friends, like McHale, had offered her advice on stepping back into theatre, she noted the differences in their respective productions. “No, I mean, we have such different shows. I’m not singing, I’m dancing the whole time,” she clarified.
From Los Angeles to the Off-Broadway scene in New York City, Heather Morris is embracing a new chapter in her career while cherishing the memories and friendships cultivated through her journey. As she prepares to take the stage, fans are left anticipating this new exploration of her talents and the potential reunions that may accompany it.