A bevy of Broadway’s brightest stars – from icons Jennifer Holliday and Andrea Martin to show-stopping newcomers Tom Francis and Jasmine Amy Rogers – lit up the Al Hirschfeld Theatre on April 28, 2025, at the inaugural Broadway Dream Roles, produced by and benefiting Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS.
The lineup brought to life the characters they’ve always longed to play through spectacular performances and heartfelt storytelling.
Sunset Blvd.'s Tom Francis, who was raised on rock bands like AC/DC, Guns N’ Roses and Led Zeppelin, didn’t realize musical theater could sound like the music he loved until he heard Rent. It opened a whole new world of musical theater for him. As a fellow guitarist, Francis feels a connection to Roger and dreams of one day playing the role on Broadway. He brought that kinship to life with a moving rendition of “One Song Glory.”
Broadway Dream Roles delivered an electrifying mix of more Broadway favorites – Erich Bergen, Liz Callaway, 2024 Jimmy Award winner Damson Chola Jr., Jennifer Holliday, Lesli Margherita, Andrea Martin, Jimin Moon, Zachary Noah Piser and Jasmine Amy Rogers – in a revealing, exhilarating and inspiring concert, which opened with a special performance by The Broadway Boys.
“Broadway is built on dreams, and it’s been magical to see our industry’s best bring those dreams to life at this inaugural event,” said Danny Whitman, executive director of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. “The evening also symbolizes the collective dreams made possible by everyone in that room – from the stars onstage to the teams behind the scenes and our dedicated donors in the audience – as they provide lifesaving meals and medication to people in need across the country with their unwavering commitment.”
"One Song Glory" from Rent Music & Lyrics by Jonathan Larson Video by Bardo Arts Production
Broadway Dream Roles Director: Kristin Newhouse Music Supervision and Orchestrations: Will Van Dyke Production Stage Manager: Jennifer Rogers Lighting Design: Katy Atwell Sound Design: Craig Cassidy Hair & Makeup: Justen Brosnen, Megan Burke
