If you’re a fan of *Dancing With the Stars*, you already know the show is a masterclass in glitter, glam, and jaw-dropping dance routines. But did you know that a surprising number of its celebrity contestants have also graced the stages of Broadway? That’s right—the crossover between ballroom brilliance and Broadway magic is stronger than you might think.
Let’s talk about some of the standout performers who’ve made their mark in both arenas. Take **Heather Morris**, for example. Sure, she wowed us as Brittany on *Glee*, but before that, she was backing up Beyoncé as a tour dancer and even made her Broadway debut in *The Phantom of the Opera*. On DWTS, she brought that same precision and flair, proving that Broadway training translates beautifully to the ballroom.
Then there’s **Corbin Bleu**, who went from *High School Musical* to Broadway’s *In the Heights* and *Kiss Me, Kate*. His DWTS season was electric—you could see his stage experience in every sharp cha-cha and elegant waltz. Broadway performers know how to tell a story through movement, and Corbin did just that, week after week.
And who could forget **Amber Riley**? After stealing hearts on *Glee*, she took her powerhouse voice and commanding presence to the West End and Broadway, starring in *Dreamgirls*. On DWTS, she owned the dance floor with confidence and soul, a testament to her stage-honed performance skills.
Even non-dancers like **Kyle Massey** (who appeared in *The Lion King* on Broadway) brought a theatrical energy to the competition. It’s clear: Broadway training doesn’t just teach you how to hit your mark—it teaches you how to connect with an audience, sell a performance, and embrace character work, all skills that shine under the DWTS spotlight.
What’s so fascinating is how these performers bridge two worlds that, at their core, are all about artistry and entertainment. Broadway requires endurance, emotional depth, and technical skill—sound familiar? It’s the same recipe for success on *Dancing With the Stars*.
So the next time you’re watching a contestant absolutely own a tango or a contemporary routine, take a closer look. They might just have a Playbill® or two tucked away in their dressing room.
Who’s your favorite Broadway star-turned-DWTS contestant? Drop your thoughts below—I’d love to hear which performances left you cheering!
