Dare to Dance? Discover How 5 Ordinary Social Media Stars Stole the Spotlight on NYC Stages!

The intersection between theatre and social media is reshaping the landscape of live performance, particularly in New York City. Shows like 11 to Midnight, & Juliet, and Cats: The Jellicle Ball are engaging with audiences in ways that transcend traditional theatre, leveraging the power of online communities and the viral nature of platforms like TikTok and Instagram. This transformation is evident in the performances themselves, where dance serves as a universal language that connects with audiences on a deeper emotional level.

The philosophy of musical theatre often states that when emotions become too overwhelming to articulate, we turn to song, and when words fail, we resort to dance. This philosophy resonates in the digital age, where creators use dance videos on social media to express themselves. According to Ache Richardson, a cast member of 11 to Midnight, “Dance gives off a different emotion. We say something different [...] when you move compared to us just speaking to you.”

It's no surprise that the NYC theatre scene has embraced this trend, incorporating the vibrant, accessible styles of online dance into productions. 11 to Midnight was conceived by dance couple Austin and Marideth Telenko, known as Cost n’ Mayor, and Jacob and Lyndsay Magid Aviner of Hideaway Circus. The show features a range of dance styles, prominently showcasing street dance, which is heavily influenced by social media trends. Audience engagement is at the forefront of this production, which includes livestreaming a number on TikTok during each performance and incorporating a scene lit only by phone flashlights. This innovative approach caters to a generation accustomed to consuming content at a breakneck pace.

“What’s cool is that everybody’s a dancer,” Marideth Telenko stated, emphasizing the relatability of movement in daily life. The show, which runs for just 70 minutes, encourages audience members to connect with the choreography, mirroring how they interact with short dance clips online. Lyndsay Magid Aviner articulated the goal of expanding the vibrant, communal spirit of social media dance into a live theatre context, aiming to engage a global audience.

The trend is not limited to 11 to Midnight. The Broadway show & Juliet has also seen popular online dancers making a splash on stage. Notably, TikTok sensation Charli D’Amelio made her Broadway debut in this production, which combines pop music with a modern twist on Shakespeare's themes. Romy Vuksan, the show’s dance captain, praised D’Amelio's dedication and background in dance, noting, “She turned up every day and was so diligent.” The rigorous training they underwent together reflects not only D’Amelio's return to a competitive environment but also highlights the unique fusion of online fame and traditional performance arts.

However, not all social media stars come with the same level of training as D’Amelio. For instance, viral vocal coach Cheryl Porter is stepping into a role in & Juliet that showcases the growing trend of bringing diverse talent from online platforms into established theatrical roles. Vuksan believes this diverse representation can encourage a broader appreciation for dance, helping to normalize movement and its joys.

Meanwhile, Cats: The Jellicle Ball transforms the classic Andrew Lloyd Webber musical into a queer ballroom competition, celebrating underground dance culture that has recently found new life online. The revival's slogan, “come one, come all,” reflects its inclusive ethos. Prominent ballroom figures like Arturo Lyons and Omari Wiles tap into a global community, using social media to reach wider audiences and promote ballroom culture's rich history.

Lyons expressed the timeliness of this revival, suggesting that the authentic experiences of ballroom dance are more relevant now than ever, bridging the gap between online and in-person performances. As digital platforms continue to influence mainstream culture, shows like Cats: The Jellicle Ball exemplify how theatre can evolve while remaining accessible to various audiences.

As the lines between social media and traditional theatre blur, these productions not only entertain but also foster a sense of community and engagement, reminding us that whether on stage or online, art has the power to connect us all.