Mariska Hargitay is currently captivating audiences on Broadway in the one-woman show *Every Brilliant Thing*. The actress, best known for her role as Olivia Benson in *Law & Order: Special Victims Unit*, has taken on the challenging task of leading this heartfelt performance, marking her debut on the stage.
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Ahead of her opening at the Hudson Theatre in New York City, Hargitay received invaluable guidance from her former co-star Raúl Esparza, who has an extensive background in theatre. “I told her it’s going to be hard,” Esparza shared in an exclusive interview. “I also said, ‘Take care of yourself. It’s okay.’ This is going to be harder than anything you’ve ever done and also more rewarding,” he added. With a strong emphasis on self-care, Esparza encouraged Hargitay to allow herself moments of rest amid the demands of theatre.
Hargitay portrays an unnamed protagonist in *Every Brilliant Thing*, a play that explores themes of depression and the little joys in life. Although this represents a new chapter in her career, Esparza is no stranger to the rigours of Broadway. He made his debut in 2000 with a revival of *The Rocky Horror Show* and has since become a prominent figure on stage, celebrated for his performances in productions such as *Tick, Tick… Boom!* and *Company*. Esparza is set to return to Broadway in November 2026 to star as Galileo Galilei in the rock musical *Galileo*.
While reflecting on his own theatrical experiences, Esparza shared his excitement for *Galileo*, stating, “The music is extraordinary. It’s nothing but bangers and it has something to say about the way we live right now.” He noted that despite the play’s Renaissance setting, its themes resonate with contemporary society, particularly in how we grapple with truth and authority.
Esparza nostalgically recalled his time in *Tick, Tick… Boom!*, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary since its Off-Broadway run. The show, which was later adapted into a film by Lin-Manuel Miranda, holds personal significance for Esparza. He described how the experience of hearing the moving song “Come to Your Senses” during rehearsals was emotionally profound, allowing him to connect deeply with his character.
Additionally, Esparza highlighted the impact of *Tick, Tick… Boom!* during the post-9/11 era when many found solace in its messages amid widespread uncertainty. He explained how its exploration of identity and self-worth resonated with audiences during a time when many were questioning their place in the world.
Hargitay’s enthusiasm for her role in *Every Brilliant Thing* is palpable. She expressed her eagerness to share the narrative with audiences, describing the play as “extraordinary and beautiful.” For her, it is less about personal acclaim and more about the collective experience of storytelling. “It’s so human in that way that it’s not one thing, it’s a lot of things,” Hargitay explained, underscoring the essence of theatre as a communal celebration of shared emotions.
Describing the collective experience of performance, Hargitay noted, “Here we all are… a thousand people sitting together telling a shared experience of what it is to be human.” This sense of unity and connection, she believes, underscores the sacred nature of storytelling in a theatrical context.
*Every Brilliant Thing*, which explores themes of hope, love, and loss, is running through Sunday, July 5, before being taken over by actress Tracee Ellis Ross. The production invites audiences to reflect on the beauty of life, reminding them of the brilliance found in the simplest moments.
Tickets for Hargitay’s performance in *Every Brilliant Thing* are currently available, providing an opportunity for theatre-goers to engage with a narrative that highlights the significance of compassion and connection in our lives. As both Hargitay and Esparza continue their respective journeys in theatre, their stories offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of human experience conveyed through the art of performance.