From Boyband to Broadway: Joey McIntyre's Versatile Theatrical Journey

Joey McIntyre's path to stardom has been anything but conventional. From his humble beginnings on the community theater stage in Boston to his current starring role in the off-Broadway musical "Drag: The Musical," the multi-talented performer has carved out a remarkable career that spans music, television, and the theater. This article delves into McIntyre's diverse artistic endeavors, showcasing his unwavering passion for the performing arts and his ability to captivate audiences in a wide range of roles.

Embracing the Spotlight: From Childhood to the Stage

McIntyre's love for the stage was ignited at a young age when he first stepped into the spotlight at the Footlight Club in Jamaica Plain, Boston, performing "Gary, Indiana" from the musical "The Music Man." This formative experience, which occurred when he was just six years old, would set the course for his nearly four-decade-long career in the entertainment industry."It was just for fun and my family used to do community theater, but I remember it was like something clicked and I knew I wanted to do it again," McIntyre, now 51, reflects. "What can I say: I'm a theater kid, and always have been one."

Navigating the Diverse Stages of His Career

McIntyre's professional life has taken him on a remarkable journey, from the global stages of the boyband powerhouse New Kids on the Block to the silver screen and the bright lights of Broadway. His versatility as a performer has allowed him to seamlessly transition between various mediums, captivating audiences with his acting prowess and vocal talents.One of his latest endeavors is his starring role in the raucous, wig-tastic off-Broadway production of "Drag: The Musical." In this production, McIntyre portrays Tom Hutchinson, a tightly-wound, emotionally guarded accountant who serves as a foil to the larger-than-life cast of drag queens. The role has allowed him to showcase his range, as he navigates the complexities of his character's journey from discomfort to understanding within the vibrant LGBTQ+ community.

Embracing Diversity and Challenging Stereotypes

McIntyre's portrayal of Tom Hutchinson in "Drag: The Musical" reflects his commitment to exploring nuanced and multifaceted characters. He has worked to ensure that his character is not simply a one-dimensional "straight man," but rather a complex individual who undergoes a transformative learning experience."I tried to advocate for Tom to be that fish out of water, and not only being that stereotypical straight man," McIntyre explains. "Yes, he's uncomfortable in this [drag queen] world, but being uncomfortable doesn't make him homophobic. It's not all black and white, and I think portraying him brings the grayness, which I think is important. He just needs to learn and be open to understanding, and eventually he is and does."This approach aligns with McIntyre's desire to create a space where audiences can see themselves reflected on stage and engage with the nuances of the LGBTQ+ experience. By challenging stereotypes and embracing diversity, he hopes to foster a more inclusive and understanding environment.

Harnessing His Vocal Prowess

In addition to his acting chops, McIntyre's powerful voice and impressive range have been showcased in his various theatrical endeavors. In "Drag: The Musical," he takes center stage with his standout satirical number "Straight Man," which allows him to flex his vocal abilities while delivering a witty and insightful commentary on the character's perspective."It's really a fun song to sing," McIntyre says. "We've been calling it a palate cleanser because it comes out of nowhere but, so far, everyone has been loving it. It's so smart and witty, but it's also great songwriting at its core."McIntyre's musical talents extend beyond the stage, as he continues to collaborate with his New Kids on the Block bandmates, releasing new music and embarking on tours that captivate audiences worldwide.

Balancing Family and Artistic Pursuits

While McIntyre's passion for the theater has taken him to the bright lights of New York City, it has also required him to make sacrifices, including time away from his family based in Los Angeles. Married to his wife Barrett since 2003, McIntyre is the proud father of three children: Griffin, Rhys, and Kira."I'm this theater kid, and you can't do theater in New York without being in New York doing theater. So here I am, 3,000 miles away from my family, and it's a commitment," he acknowledges. "It's thrilling and wonderful to originate a role on or Off-Broadway but, at the same time, it's eight shows a week so it's meant being away for long stretches."McIntyre credits his wife's unwavering support as a crucial factor in his ability to pursue his theatrical dreams. "I'm so lucky that my amazing wife is letting me live out my dreams. It's not easy having three kids at home and your husband on the other side of the country, but she knows this is my dream — and she's letting me follow it."

A Multifaceted Entertainer on the Rise

As McIntyre continues to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the entertainment industry, he remains committed to exploring new creative avenues. In addition to his starring role in "Drag: The Musical," he will soon be gracing the small screen in the new Christmas movie "Jingle Bell Love" for The Roku Channel, and he has also written an original song for the film.Moreover, McIntyre's enduring connection to New Kids on the Block remains a significant part of his professional life. The group's recent album release and upcoming Las Vegas residency are a testament to their enduring popularity and McIntyre's ability to seamlessly balance his diverse artistic pursuits."There's a lot going on and it's all exciting, but I know it's a process," McIntyre reflects. "I'm really thankful and satisfied with everything right now. That's a good place to be, I think. There's a lot to look forward to."As Joey McIntyre continues to captivate audiences with his multifaceted talents, his journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring performers, showcasing the power of perseverance, versatility, and a deep-rooted passion for the arts.