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Broadway’s Maybe Happy Ending: A New Musical Sparked by Friendship and Adventure
On December 16, Broadway enthusiasts can catch an interview with Darren Criss and Helen J Shen on Late Night with Seth Meyers. The pair will discuss their experiences in the new Broadway musical Maybe Happy Ending, which is currently running and will be available through September 7, 2025. The show is scheduled to air at 12:35 AM ET/11:35 PM CT on NBC.
Maybe Happy Ending features the talents of Darren Criss and Helen J Shen, with music composed by Will Aronson, lyrics penned by Hue Park, and a collaborative book by Aronson and Park. This vibrant production is directed by Tony Award winner Michael Arden, with a supporting cast that includes Steven Huynh, Hannah Kevitt, Daniel May, and Christopher James Tamayo.
The narrative centers around Oliver (played by Criss), who resides in a modest one-room apartment on the outskirts of Seoul. Here, he finds solace in his passion for jazz records and his care for a beloved plant. Oliver’s existence takes an unexpected turn when Claire (portrayed by Shen), a fellow HelperBot 3 who is now outdated, approaches him for a charger. This seemingly mundane request triggers a charming series of events, leading to an unlikely friendship that could blossom into romance. This whimsical tale won the prestigious Richard Rodgers Award and explores the idea that even those deemed obsolete can experience profound connections and feelings.
Directed by the innovative Michael Arden, known for his work on Parade and Once on This Island, the production is brought to life through striking scenic designs by Dane Laffrey, recognized for A Christmas Carol. The musical is an original piece that celebrates the small joys that make life meaningful.
Notably, Maybe Happy Ending has been crafted in both Korean and English, showcasing its international appeal. The original Korean-language version debuted in December 2016 at DaeMyung Culture Factory in Seoul, where it garnered six Korean Musical Awards, including Best Musical. The English adaptation premiered at the Alliance Theatre in Atlanta during the 2019-2020 season, also under the direction of Arden, and received the esteemed 2017 Richard Rodgers Production Award.
Source
www.broadwayworld.com