P!nk, the pop superstar, is set to make history by hosting the Tony Awards, Broadway's biggest night. But this isn't just a one-time gig; it's a celebration of her own childhood dreams and a love for musical theater that runs deep. Growing up, P!nk was a theater kid, acting in classic musicals and singing Phantom of the Opera from her lungs. Now, her daughter Willow Sage Hart, a devoted musical theater fan and aspiring performer, is following in her footsteps. Despite her own music's Broadway presence, P!nk has never stepped foot on the stage. But that's about to change.
In an exclusive interview with Billboard, P!nk opens up about her musical theater past, the shows she and Willow are constantly listening to, and the possibility of a jukebox musical based on her own catalog. She reveals that while she hasn't been approached to do so yet, she's open to the idea if it's done right. But for now, she's focused on her upcoming performance in Chicago, alongside Queen Latifah and Jesse Tyler Ferguson, to celebrate the musical's 30th anniversary.
P!nk's love for musical theater is evident in her choice of music for her family. She and Willow are big fans of Newsies, The Notebook, and Waitress, with Willow particularly drawn to Hamilton and The Greatest Showman. When asked about her personal Mount Rushmore of musicals, P!nk doesn't hesitate to name Les Misérables, praising its great songs and fun. She also highlights the overlap between the pop and theater worlds, crediting Willow for bringing her into the theater scene.
But P!nk's connection to musical theater goes beyond her personal life. Her innate sense of theatricality has influenced her live shows, which combine elements of circus, theater, and rock opera. She describes her performances as a movable stage, with a focus on staging and what's possible. Despite her success in pop music, P!nk is taking a break from writing new songs, focusing instead on being a mom and seeing where the day takes her.
As she prepares to host the Tony Awards, P!nk is embracing the unexpected, living out her childhood dreams. Her performance in Chicago and her hosting gig are not just achievements to add to her resume, but a testament to her enduring love for musical theater. In my opinion, P!nk's involvement in the theater world is a fascinating development, and I can't wait to see what she brings to the stage. It's a reminder that dreams, no matter how big or small, are worth pursuing.
