Alex Brightman Discusses His Everyman Role in Broadway's Schmigadoon!
Alex Brightman stars as Josh Skinner in Broadway's Schmigadoon!, a role that lets him play a more grounded character after parts like Beetlejuice. The Tony nominee discusses his comedic approach and singing in his natural voice. The production was named Best Musical at this year's Tony Awards.
Alex Brightman plays Josh Skinner, an orthopedic surgeon hesitant about commitment, opposite Sara Chase as Melissa Gimble in Broadway's Schmigadoon! The production, this year's Best Musical Tony winner, places the couple in a fantasy town filled with Golden Age musical-theater references, romantic distractions, local politics, and a box-social auction.
Brightman is a two-time Tony nominee for Beetlejuice and School of Rock. His Broadway history includes Wicked, Glory Days, Big Fish, and a 2023 Spamalot revival. Offstage, he has written books for musicals with Drew Gasparini and a solo show for Marc Summers.
Brightman's turn may draw theatergoers who know him from Beetlejuice and School of Rock, potentially broadening Schmigadoon!'s audience beyond musical-comedy fans. His discussion of understated acting and natural singing could encourage performers and students to see range as a career asset. The show's Tony recognition may also support Broadway tourism and commercial interest in Golden Age-inspired productions, though its broader cultural reach will depend on ticket access, word of mouth, and how widely the production is seen.