Andrew Barth Feldman is set to take over the role of Oliver in the Tony Award-winning musical “Maybe Happy Ending” from Darren Criss. Starting September 2, Feldman will portray the retired robot for a nine-week run until November 1. Criss, who was the original actor to embody Oliver, received significant acclaim for his performance, winning a Tony Award and becoming the first Asian American to win best leading actor in a musical. He has been in the role since October 2024.
Feldman, known for his performance in “Dear Evan Hansen” and the film “No Hard Feelings,” will share the stage with his real-life partner, Helen J. Shen, who plays Claire, the other lead character. Original cast members Dez Duron and Marcus Choi will join them, along with understudies Steven Huynh, Hannah Kevitt, Daniel May, Christopher James Tamayo, and Claire Kwon. This casting marks what appears to be the first instance of a white actor taking on the role of Oliver in a musical that originated in South Korea.
The creators of “Maybe Happy Ending,” Will Aronson and Hue Park, along with director Michael Arden, expressed their excitement about Feldman’s casting in a statement. They emphasized that the musical revolves around themes of connection and the human experience, which are universal and can be interpreted through various perspectives.
Feldman shared his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “I am so in love with this show and with Helen J Shen. I’ve been a plus one on this Broadway journey from the beginning, and this brilliant team and beautiful company have already become such a big part of my life.” He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to share the stage with Shen, reinforcing the musical’s emphasis on emotional connections and collaborations.
“Maybe Happy Ending,” which explores the relationship between Oliver and Claire, has won multiple Tony Awards, including the prestigious best musical award and accolades for best score, best book, and best director of a musical.
The casting of Feldman highlights the ongoing commitment to diverse interpretations in theater, showcasing how stories can resonate across different backgrounds. As audiences look forward to this new pairing, there’s an exciting anticipation for what Feldman will bring to the beloved role of Oliver.