Broadway Stars Reflect on the Unmatched Experience of Performing at the Muny

Legends such as Cary Grant, Gene Kelly, Carol Burnett, Angela Lansbury, Ethel Merman, and Debbie Reynolds have all graced the Muny’s expansive stage. The theater has also been a launchpad for talents like Jennifer Holliday, Ben Vereen, Joel Grey, and Bernadette Peters.

Over the past century, the Muny has attracted a spectrum of performers—from seasoned stars to emerging artists—who often return year after year despite the rigorous summer rehearsal schedules and demanding performances.

As the Muny prepares to receive its regional Tony Award, several Broadway actors, including recent Tony nominees, shared insights about what continues to draw them to this St. Louis theater. Their reflections have been edited and condensed for clarity.

One Tony nominee for his role in “Gypsy,” Burstein, has appeared in 11 Muny productions, beginning his association at the age of 19.

He credits Ed Greenberg, the Muny’s executive producer and his former instructor at Queens College, for encouraging him to join the theater’s summer season, which marked his first Equity contract.