Joshua Rivera
Updated on: October 10, 2024 8:07 pm GMT
Michael Urie is enjoying a vibrant period in his career, characterized by exciting theatrical performances and a successful television series. Just hours before a performance of his latest Broadway show, “Once Upon a Mattress,” Urie reflects on the past few years, stating, “It’s been a dreamy couple of years.” Known for his role as Marc St. James on the popular sitcom “Ugly Betty,” Urie is also making waves in the Apple TV dramedy “Shrinking,” which premieres its second season on October 16.
A Rising Star in Theatre and Television
Urie has taken the stage by storm in recent years, featuring prominently in Broadway’s revival of “Spamalot” before his latest role in “Once Upon a Mattress,” which previously ran at New York City Center. His current portrayal of Prince Dauntless in “Once Upon a Mattress” marks a significant achievement in Urie’s career, as he has transitioned into musical theatre, a domain he initially regarded with trepidation.
“I fell in love with theater because of musicals…[but singing] didn’t come naturally to me,” Urie admits. Despite this, the opportunity to perform in musicals such as “Spamalot” and “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying” aligns more closely with his aspirations.
A Unique Approach to Musical Comedy
Urie describes his latest role as unexpected. “Here I am chasing after the musicals I think I’m capable of, and here comes one that I didn’t even realize,” he says. The whimsical production, a retelling of “The Princess and the Pea,” allows him to demonstrate his comedic talents while embracing the musical format.
In his portrayal of Prince Dauntless, Urie employs physical comedy, giving the character an air of arrested development under the influence of an overprotective mother, played by “Saturday Night Live” alum Ana Gasteyer. “I think of Dauntless as a child at the beginning of the play and a man at the end of the play,” Urie explains. This character development is punctuated by moments of humor, particularly when he comedically struggles with stairs, eliciting laughter from the audience.
Collaborations and Stage Presence
The chance to reunite with Sutton Foster, his co-star from the television series “Younger,” was a significant factor in Urie’s acceptance of the role. “I didn’t even listen to the music. When they offered me the job, I just said yes, because I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to play alongside her,” he recalls. Foster’s charm and joy add to the show’s allure, making their on-stage dynamic particularly enjoyable.
Reflecting on the contrasts between his career choices, Urie notes the difference in themes across his recent projects. “Getting to go from adult shows where we say the ‘F word’ to kids shows where you can hear the laughter of children is for me…the best,” he states.
Creating Laughter on Stage
In both “Once Upon a Mattress” and “Spamalot,” Urie emphasizes the importance of humor, especially in moments of improvisation. “Sutton and I have some moments that are kind of loosey goosey that are not nailed down, and so that is hard,” he explains. The unscripted exchanges often create hysterical moments that resonate with audiences, enhancing the performance.
As Urie balances his role in the theatre with his involvement in “Shrinking,” he acknowledges the excitement surrounding the show’s upcoming season. “The first season ended with a literal cliffhanger, and everyone knows now that Brett Goldstein has a role,” he shares. The ability to navigate between genres highlights Urie’s versatile talent, allowing him to engage with a broad audience.
The Multifaceted Career of Michael Urie
Throughout his career, Urie has established himself as a skilled performer capable of handling diverse roles, both on stage and in television. His dedication to the craft of acting allows him to transition seamlessly between musical theatre and comedic drama, showcasing a wide range of skills.
While Urie remains focused on his current projects, he continues to explore opportunities that challenge him as a performer. The enthusiasm he expresses towards his work underscores his passion for the arts. As he prepares for the premiere of “Shrinking” and the continuation of “Once Upon a Mattress,” audiences eagerly anticipate what Urie will take on next.
Michael Urie is an interesting actor with a lot of great performances and exciting projects coming up. He has been in many shows and movies that people really enjoy.
