When pursuing a career in the arts, particularly in theatre, artists often confront two vital questions: what does one value most deeply, and how far are they willing to go in the relentless pursuit of their passion? Jonathan Groff, an accomplished Tony Award-winning actor now gracing Broadway in Just In Time at Circle in the Square Theatre, navigated these questions with remarkable sincerity and dedication.
For Groff, the intertwining of personal values and artistic expression has always been evident. He has poured his heart into every performance, using his craft as a means to connect—not only with his audience but also with himself. Groff made a noteworthy leap of faith at the age of 21, marking the beginning of his illustrious career.
Reflecting on his journey, Groff recalls a pivotal moment. "I went to an open call," he reminisces with a warm smile. Unsure about his singing abilities, he sought advice from his father the night before a significant audition. “I remember saying, ‘I can’t quite play this role yet, but I know if they give me the chance, I could get there.’” Thankfully, his determination paid off, as the audition led to his breakout role in Spring Awakening, a show that catapulted him into the spotlight as one of Broadway’s most promising stars.
The essence of Groff’s artistry can best be summed up as earnest. While his charm and work ethic are widely recognized, it is his genuineness that serves as his defining characteristic. This sincerity stems from his upbringing in Pennsylvania, where his love for musical theatre was birthed amidst the heartfelt compositions of icons like Howard Ashman, William Finn, Stephen Sondheim, and Jeanine Tesori.
However, Groff’s journey has not been devoid of challenges. After the success of Spring Awakening, he ventured into various Off-Broadway productions. One notable decision was turning down the chance to play Finn in the television series Glee, a decision driven by his desire to refine his craft. Throughout this period, Groff experienced both affirmation and adversity, with the latter paving the way for transformation.
Recollecting a profound experience, Groff reflects on his role in the 2009 production of The Bacchae at Shakespeare in the Park. The reviews were harsh, and he was deeply affected: "I got personally called out for being horrible in this play." In a moment that shifted his perspective, he recalled feeling the weight of negative critiques before stepping onto the stage. “I just decided to be confident and to own whatever it was I was doing on stage,” he shares. This pivotal performance not only empowered him but also influenced his portrayal of Jesse St. James in Glee.
Groff’s foray into television and film followed this empowering phase, but it wasn’t long before he returned to Broadway. In 2015, he joined the cast of Hamilton—an experience he described as “winning the lottery.” Initially stepping in to play King George III for a limited engagement, Groff was amazed by the spirit and energy of the production. “I used to sneak into the house Off-Broadway, and I would watch the show from the vom,” he laughs, reflecting on the unforgettable moments.
His dynamic performances over the years culminated in a Tony Award for Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical for his role as Franklin Shepard in the revival of Merrily We Roll Along. Groff treasures this production for both its emotional depth and for the invaluable connections he forged with his co-stars, Lindsay Mendez and Daniel Radcliffe. He perceives the show as a monumental gift, touching on their shared experiences and the emotional excavation each performance demanded.
Today, Groff holds the audience’s attention once again as he embodies singer Bobby Darin in Just In Time. Each performance reveals layers of his identity, fostering a deeper connection with the audience. “The first preview, when I came down the elevator after singing ‘Mack the Knife’ for the first time, I just lost it. I was just weeping,” he admits, acknowledging the meaningful bond he shares with the audience—one that mirrors the struggles and triumphs of the character he portrays. “To feel that connection to the crowd is such a spiritual experience for me.”
As Groff continues to immerse himself in his craft, paving new paths with each performance, his story serves as an inspiration to those who follow a similar journey in the arts. The moments of vulnerability, resilience, and profound connection to his work encapsulate the essence of what it means to be an artist.
In a world that often feels disconnected and ephemeral, Jonathan Groff’s journey exemplifies the beauty of pursuing one’s passion relentlessly. Amidst accolades and challenges, it is his authenticity and earnest pursuit of connection that resonates most powerfully with both audiences and fellow artists alike. As he demonstrates with each role, the arts are not merely a career but a profound relationship, one that continues to evolve with every performance, every applause, and every tear shed on stage.
