Ben Platt is lighting up the West End like a supernova – and he's not just shining bright as the star of Midnight at the Never Get, but also as a beacon of authenticity. The 32-year-old musical theatre sensation, widely hailed as the biggest star of his generation, makes his long-awaited London debut in this intimate new production at the Menier Chocolate Factory, and it's a moment that will leave fans and critics alike breathless.
Platt's journey to the stage has been one of passion and self-discovery – and he's not afraid to get personal. Speaking candidly about his experiences, he revealed that while he officially came out to his family at 12, they insist they always knew. We're talking pre-teen Platt here, who was already rocking a bedroom production of Cinderella complete with fog machine and individual trash cans (clip-on microphones were the icing on the cake) – it's clear this little theatre whiz had drama in his DNA from day one.
From his breakout role as Evan Hansen in Dear Evan Hansen to critically acclaimed turns in The Book of Mormon, Parade, and more, Platt has made a name for himself playing characters that aren't necessarily reflective of his own identity – but he's relishing the chance to break free from typecasting. "It's like being handed a box of treats," he exclaims about landing the role of a wistful lounge singer in Midnight at the Never Get, where he gets to unleash his full 'feminine expression and flamboyance and elegance'.
The musical, set in a late-Sixties New York dive bar between life and death, is a real showstopper – but Platt wants audiences to know that this isn't just about the music or the magic of the stage. "It's about being seen," he says, highlighting the importance of representation on screen and off. And London theatregoers, take note: Platt praises your crowd for their respect and etiquette, saying you're a cut above those in New York – but only if phones are switched off, that is!
With an illustrious career spanning over two decades (he booked his first professional tour at just 10 years old in Caroline, or Change!), Platt has amassed a staggering array of accolades, including a Grammy, an Emmy, and a Tony Award for his performance in Dear Evan Hansen. His London debut is a significant moment for UK theatre audiences – and it's not just about seeing him shine on stage; it's also about witnessing a performer who's unapologetically himself, in all his glory.