Disney Stars Shine on Broadway's Gatsby Stage

Ryan McCartan and China Anne McClain, recognizable from their Disney Channel careers, are currently captivating audiences on Broadway as Jay Gatsby and Daisy Buchanan in the musical adaptation of The Great Gatsby. They share the stage with Corbin Bleu, another Disney alum playing Nick Caraway. While grateful for their dedicated fanbase, McCartan views Broadway as an environment where he can learn from exceptionally talented individuals, describing it as a place that challenges his capabilities.

McCartan, who starred in Liv and Maddie, and McClain, known for A.N.T. Farm and the Descendants films, both credit their early television experiences with building a strong foundation for the demanding eight-show-a-week schedule of Broadway. McClain, in particular, noted that her initial role at 11 prepared her for the constant learning curve of live performance.

Both actors emphasize the profound difference between television and live theater. McClain points out that prioritizing vocal perfection on Broadway can detract from authentic storytelling and audience connection. McCartan elaborates, stating that while Disney productions aim for perfection, Broadway embraces imperfection as an inherent part of its raw, live nature, mirroring the complex stories being told.

The Great Gatsby, which premiered at New Jersey's Paper Mill Playhouse in 2023 and transferred to Broadway in 2024, has achieved significant success, playing over 1,000 performances and selling over 1 million tickets. The stars hope that theatergoers recognize and appreciate their current artistic achievements beyond their childhood roles.