PEOPLE’s 10 Best Broadway Performances of 2025
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The Broadway scene in 2025 was a platform for bold and risk-taking performances, ranging from solo acts to powerful ensemble casts. Noteworthy stars like Sarah Snook and Jonathan Groff left lasting impressions with their transformative stage presence. The female-led cast of Liberation and the flawless ensemble of Purpose demonstrated the power of collective storytelling. The standout performances of the season were not just about the grandeur but about actors immersing themselves in roles with clarity, confidence, and genuine connection to the material. These were the kind of performances that transcended the stage and resonated deeply with audiences.
Individual stars like Jonathan Groff showcased their talent through sheer presence and precision, while ensembles such as the women of Liberation delivered performances that sharpened with each interaction, highlighting the importance of collective impact over individual brilliance. The year 2025 was a testament to performers willing to push boundaries and bare their souls on stage, creating moments that will be remembered for years to come.
Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’ Purpose made a significant impact with its ensemble cast, including LaTanya Richardson Jackson, Harry Lennix, and Jon Michael Hill, who collectively portrayed a Southern Black household navigating complex dynamics and legacies. The production thrived on the cohesion of the cast, each member elevating the others to create a riveting family drama that resonated with audiences on a profound level.
Sarah Snook’s performance in ‘The Picture of Dorian Gray’ was a mesmerizing tour de force as she flawlessly inhabited 26 characters in a one-woman show. Her ability to transition between roles with precision and balance brought new life to the classic story, earning her accolades and cementing her place as a standout talent on Broadway.
Jasmine Amy Rogers captivated audiences in ‘BOOP! The Musical’ by bringing the iconic Betty Boop to life with charm, warmth, and show-stopping vocal prowess. Her magnetic stage presence and comedic timing added depth to the production, solidifying her position as a rising star in the theatre world.
Sadie Sink’s performance in ‘John Proctor Is the Villain’ showcased her emotional depth and nuanced portrayal of a high school junior grappling with power dynamics and truth. Sink’s raw and authentic portrayal drew audiences into the character’s journey, leaving a lasting impact with her quietly powerful performance.
Jonathan Groff’s electrifying performance in ‘Just in Time’ as Bobby Darin showcased his exceptional musical talent and stage presence. Groff’s embodiment of the iconic singer oozed charisma and magnetism, captivating audiences with his dynamic portrayal and engaging performance style.
Jinkx Monsoon’s portrayal of Mary Todd Lincoln in ‘Oh, Mary!’ was a masterclass in comic control and versatility. The RuPaul’s Drag Race winner commanded the stage with wit, humor, and pathos, captivating audiences with her dynamic and engaging performance.
Joshua Henry’s portrayal of Coalhouse Walker Jr. in ‘Ragtime’ was a standout moment in the Lincoln Center Theater’s revival. Henry’s resonant vocals and emotional depth brought depth and complexity to the character, making his performance a highlight of the show.
The women of ‘Liberation’ delivered a powerful and moving performance, exploring themes of power, identity, and freedom with honesty and vulnerability. Led by Susannah Flood, the ensemble cast brought their distinct voices together to create a compelling narrative that resonated with audiences on a profound level.
Kristin Chenoweth’s portrayal of Jackie Siegel in ‘The Queen of Versailles’ was a masterclass in subtlety and nuance, bringing depth and complexity to the character. Chenoweth’s performance elevated the production, showcasing her range and versatility as a performer.
Nicholas Christopher’s performance as Anatoly Sergievsky in ‘Chess’ was a revelation, drawing audiences in with his haunting vocals and emotional depth. Christopher’s portrayal of the Russian chess champion was a standout moment in the starry revival, solidifying his place as a formidable talent in the Broadway world.
In addition to these standout performances, several actors received honourable mentions for their exceptional work on the Broadway stage in 2025. Natalie Venetia Belcon, George Clooney, Lea Salonga, Bernadette Peters, Robyn Hurder, Louis McCartney, Andrew Durand, Rebecca Naomi Jones, Will Harrison, Laurie Metcalf, Micah Stock, Mark Strong, Lesley Manville, and June Squibb all contributed memorable and compelling performances to the Broadway landscape.
The Broadway scene in 2025 was a testament to the power of exceptional performances and storytelling, with actors pushing boundaries and captivating audiences with their talent and dedication to their craft. From ensemble casts to solo acts, the year showcased a diverse range of performances that left a lasting impact on the theatre world and will be remembered for years to come.