Helen J Shen's career took a remarkable turn when she landed the role she had been waiting for in the new musical 'Maybe Happy Ending'. This 24-year-old actress, who identifies as she/they, made her Broadway debut opposite Darren Criss at the Belasco Theatre in New York City on November 16. The work, directed by Michael Arden, follows two retired robots in the distant future as they form an unlikely relationship.

A Dream Come True on Broadway

From Off-Broadway to the Big Stage

Shen was no stranger to the stage when she got the role of Claire. She had already starred in Off-Broadway's 'The Lonely Few' and 'Teeth' earlier in the year. But this Broadway debut felt extra special. "Any Broadway debut is a huge accomplishment. It takes so much work and dedication. For me, to debut in this way, with this group, telling this story, it's just perfect," she said.This experience was a dream come true for Shen. She had a lot of freedom and access to resources. As the show had its world premiere in Seoul in 2016, she was able to learn from those who had been working on it for over a decade.

Value of an Original Musical

Shen sees value in making her debut in an original musical with an original score. In today's Broadway stage, where revivals and jukebox musicals are popular, original works are becoming rare. "As a theater artist, it's important to champion new works. This is a unique opportunity for me," she explained.Growing up in the theater scene, many actors connect with dream roles early. But Shen struggled to find hers. She often felt that her dream roles hadn't been written yet. "I would love to embody iconic characters, but now I realize I was waiting for this role," she said.

Instant Connection with Darren Criss

Starring alongside Emmy winner Darren Criss was a special experience for Shen. They were both University of Michigan alumni and self-proclaimed music nerds. In the rehearsal room, they would talk about scansion and rhymes. "We've both been open and receptive to telling this story. We care about the characters and want to portray them well. It's been great," Shen said.Despite their similar backgrounds, their characters have very different personalities. Claire's sarcasm and dryness contrasts with Oliver's rigidity. "He's a bit more rigid at first, while Claire is more nonchalant. It's fun to play these contrasting characters, especially since we have a fun banter as friends," Shen added.

Impact on the Audience

The production's star power attracts people from all over. "We have people coming from Chile and Australia just to see this show. It's amazing," Shen said. But what really touched her was seeing more Asian faces at the stage door. "It means a lot to me. It shows that people can see themselves in this story," she shared.Shen related to this experience. She remembered seeing an understudy in 'Billy Elliot' when she was 12 and how that moment stayed with her. "The photo turned out a bit 'derpy', but it's a core memory," she said.

Advice from Fellow Actors

Shen has met many fellow actors over the years who have given her advice. "I did a regional production with Pearl Sun, and she's been like a big sister to me. She's an amazing Asian American actress and always there for me," she said.Her partner, Andrew Barth Feldman, is also in the industry. "Having these amazing people around me has been a great support. It's an experience beyond words, and I'm grateful for them," she added.As for the future of the musical, tickets are on sale through September 2025. Shen hopes it runs for a long time. "The story itself can survive in a smaller theater. I hope it gets done in high schools and becomes a new classic," she said.Tickets for 'Maybe Happy Ending' are now available.