This year’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade was graced by a stellar lineup of Broadway stars who brought festive cheer and captivating performances to the iconic event.
Idina Menzel, the Tony Award-winning star known for her role in “Wicked,” made a memorable appearance on the “Wondrous World of Wildlife” float, performing “Great Escape” from her upcoming Broadway show, “Redwood.” This marks Menzel’s return to the parade, having participated in previous years including 2003, 2008, 2014, and 2019.
Cynthia Erivo, another “Wicked” alum, engaged with parade hosts Savannah Guthrie, Hoda Kotb, and Al Roker, unveiling a clip from her newly released film that debuted with a historic $164 million, showcasing her continued success in the entertainment industry.
Charli d’Amelio, who has recently joined the cast of “& Juliet” on Broadway, showcased her dance talents as part of the parade’s opening moments, bringing youthful excitement to the festivities.
Cole Escola, recognized for his work in “Oh, Mary!”, made a splash riding a flamboyant flamingo float along the parade route, adding a whimsical touch to the celebrations.
Ariana Madix, a familiar face from Bravo TV and a recent performer in “Chicago,” entertained the crowd from the Peacock float with a rendition of “Lovefool” by The Cardigans, highlighting her versatility as a performer.
Making his Broadway debut this week, Sebastián Yatra spread holiday cheer with a bilingual version of “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town” while riding a float representing Big Brothers Big Sisters of New York.
To cap off the joyous occasion, Jennifer Hudson, an Oscar winner for “Dreamgirls” and last seen on Broadway in “The Color Purple,” delivered a heartfelt holiday medley, embodying the spirit of celebration.
The blend of Broadway talent at this year’s parade not only brought joy but also showcased the resilience and creativity of the performing arts, particularly in a year filled with challenges. Events like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade serve as a reminder of the magic that live entertainment offers, inspiring hope and connection among audiences.
Overall, this year’s performances successfully highlighted Broadway’s enduring spirit and its ability to uplift and entertain, making Thanksgiving even more special for all who tuned in.