Joshua Henry

Early life and education

Henry was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada to Zadoc Henry (a teacher at Calvary Christian Academy), and raised in Miami. He originally wanted to be an accountant, like his mother. However, he was cast as Harold Hill in his high school (Florida Bible Christian School) production of The Music Man and with the experience he changed his mind.

Henry studied theatre at the University of Miami, where he graduated in 2006.

Career

Theatre

2006-2010: Early career and Broadway debut

Henry made his acting debut when he co-starred as Judas/John the Baptist in the Paper Mill Playhouse (Milburn, New Jersey) production of Godspell in 2006. He was set to star in a 2008 Broadway transfer opposite Gavin Creel as Jesus and Diana DeGarmo, but the project was cancelled.

In 2007, Henry appeared in the ensemble of the Off-Broadway musical In the Heights, re-joining the cast for the show's Broadway production. For In the Heights, the entire cast won a Drama Desk Award, and Henry and the ensemble won an ACCA Award for Outstanding Broadway Chorus from Actors' Equity Association.

Henry starred in Serenade, which played off-Broadway from December 9, 2007, to December 15, 2007. In June 2009, Henry contributed original music to the off-Broadway musical Shafrika, The White Girl at the Vineyard Theatre.

In 2009, he also starred in The Wiz as The Tin Man at New York City Center as a part of their Encores! series.

From March 24, 2010 to July 20, 2010 he played "Favorite Son" in the original Broadway cast of the Green Day musical American Idiot. From March 15, 2011 until the show's closing on April 24, 2011 he returned to the role of "Favorite Son" in American Idiot.

2010-2011: ''The Scottsboro Boys'' and first Tony nomination

Henry then joined the Broadway cast of The Scottsboro Boys, directed and choreographed by Susan Stroman with a score by John Kander and Fred Ebb. He portrayed Haywood Patterson, for which he achieved critical praise. The Star Tribune wrote of his performance, "Joshua Henry ... ignites the role of Haywood Patterson as the lightning rod for our identification with the men." Charles Isherwood in The New York Times asserted that Henry "gives a performance of keen intensity as Haywood Patterson, an illiterate young man who becomes the focus of our sympathy as he steadfastly refuses to sign his name to a lie in order to obtain parole. Mr. Henry performs Haywood’s ballad of hopeless yearning, "Go Back Home," with a powerful simplicity that slashes through the evening's artifice." Despite these positive reviews, The Scottsboro Boys closed within a month. For his performance, Henry was nominated for the 2011 Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical, but lost to Norbert Leo Butz in Catch Me If You Can.

On January 22, he was among the performers in the Broadway Memories concert performance in New York, in which he performed selections from The Scottsboro Boys. On March 2, 2011, he performed with *The Scottsboro Boys''' original Broadway cast in *Stro!'', a gala celebration honoring Susan Stroman.

Henry attended and performed at a MCC Miscast Gala in New York, held on March 15, 2011. The performance showcases "Broadway's hottest stars performing songs from roles in which they would never be cast." On April 10, 2011, he returned to the University of Miami to perform in their Broadway Unplugged concert. In addition, Henry and the cast of The Scottsboro Boys performed in the May 16, 2011, performance of Broadway Sensation in New York City.

2011-2016: ''Violet'', concerts and more leading roles on Broadway

Henry performed the role of Jake in the American Repertory Theater's production of Porgy and Bess, which began previews August 17, 2011, at the Loeb Drama Center in Cambridge, Massachusetts. It officially opened on August 31 and ran through September 30, 2011. It transferred to the Richard Rodgers Theatre on Broadway where it played from January 12 until September 23, 2012.

In May and June 2013, he reprised his Tony nominated role in The Scottsboro Boys at the Ahmanson Theatre.

Henry performed the role of Flick opposite Sutton Foster in the Roundabout Theatre production of Violet which began in April, 2014. On April 29, 2014, he was nominated for a Tony in the category of Best Actor in a Featured Role in a Musical.

Henry performed in a one-night concert performance of Parade at the Lincoln Center. He starred as Jim Conley opposite Jeremy Jordan as Leo Frank, Ramin Karimloo as Tom Watson, and Laura Benanti as Lucille Frank.

He appeared in the role of Noble Sissle in the 2016 production of Shuffle Along, or, the Making of the Musical Sensation of 1921 and All That Followed at the Music Box Theatre on Broadway.

Henry starred as Jamie alongside Cynthia Erivo in a one-night benefit concert performance of Jason Robert Brown's The Last Five Years on September 12, 2016. Proceeds from the performance went to the Brady Center, a national gun violence organization.

2016-present: ''Carousel'', ''Ragtime'' and more Broadway revivals, ''Hamilton'', ''Waitress''

Henry originated the roles of Hercules Mulligan, James Madison, and King George III in the 2013 Vassar College workshop of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton. In 2016 and 2017, Henry starred in the lead role of Aaron Burr in the Chicago production of Hamilton: An American Musical at the CIBC Theatre. He reprised the role in the first United States national tour in San Francisco and Los Angeles. On November 18, 2020, it was announced Henry would reprise his role of Burr in a special performance with the cast of Hamilton for the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

In 2018, Henry starred and gained wide-spread acclaim as Billy Bigelow alongside Jessie Mueller in the third Broadway revival of Rodgers and Hammerstein's Carousel, for which he received a Tony Award nomination. Performances began on February 28 before officially opening on April 12. The show closed on September 16 after 181 performances.

In 2021, Henry became the first African-American actor to play Dr. Pomatter in Waitress. He joined the Broadway cast on November 29 and stayed until it closed due to COVID-19 cases in the cast on December 20. He starred alongside Ciara Renèe as Jenna in the restaged production. He received a Broadway.com Audience Choice Award for his portrayal.

In May 2022, it was announced Henry would star as Rapunzel’s Prince in the second Broadway revival of Into the Woods that would open in June of that year. He left the production on October 9 for the filming of Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration and was replaced by Andy Karl. Henry returned to the production after Karl’s extended run ended December 2. Henry would stay with the production until its final performance on January 8, 2023. During the run he would star opposite Gavin Creel, Cheyenne Jackson, Karl, Sara Bareilles, Brian d'Arcy James, Patina Miller, Stephanie J. Block, Montego Glover, Joaquina Kalukango, Sebastian Arcelus, Phillipa Soo, and Krysta Rodriguez.

In 2023, Henry co-wrote and co-starred in The Conversation opposite Julia Harriman at Power Station at BerkleeNYC. The production was directed by Lear DeBessonet and music directed by Alex Lacamoire.

In May 2024, it was announced Henry would star as Coalhouse Walker Jr. in a production of Ragtime at New York City Center opposite Caissie Levy and Brandon Uranowitz. The production opened on October 30 of that same year for a two week engagement. Henry received rave reviews for his performance. A Broadway revival started performances in September 2025 at the Vivian Beaumont Theatre, with Henry reprising his role and set to continue in it until June 2026.

Film and television

Henry appeared in the first Sex and the City film in 2008.

He appeared on the television series Kings and Nip/Tuck, as well as the 2010 short film Once Upon a Time in Australia. Henry also appeared in the role of Corporal Quincy Montclair on season 7 of the Lifetime series Army Wives.

In 2017, he starred in his biggest film role, Ben Moran in Renegades. From 2019 to 2021, he appeared in the television series See as Jerlamarel.

Henry also starred in the film adaptation of the musical tick, tick... BOOM! as Roger Bart. He starred alongside Andrew Garfield, Alexandra Shipp, Robin de Jesús, Vanessa Hudgens. It was released in November 2021. Henry received a Black Reel Award nomination for his performance.

In December 2022, Henry starred as Gaston in Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration. He starred alongside H.E.R., Josh Groban, Martin Short, David Alan Grier, Shania Twain, Rizwan Manji, and Rita Moreno.

Music

On September 23, 2008, Henry performed in a concert performance titled Party Worth Crashing in New York City.

Henry, along with Corbin Bleu and Andréa Burns, was featured on "Dare to Go Beyond: The Album", by the nonprofit organization R.Evolución Latina. It was released on December 13, 2010, produced by Luis Salgado.

On January 16, 2011, Henry, Laura Osnes, and Natalie Weiss were featured performers in Kait Kerrigan and Bree Lowdermilk's You Made This Tour concert at the Laurie Beechman Theatre.

Henry performed in the 92nd Street Y's Lyrics & Lyricists event, honoring Burton Lane, on February 14, 2011.

On February 12, 2021, Henry released his EP Guarantee.

On September 10, 2021, Henry released his debut album Grow.

On December 13, 2022 Henry released his single ''Can't Nobody Tell Us Nothin'''.

In October 2024, he appeared on Eisa Davis and Lin-Manuel Miranda's musical concept album Warriors. He sang the role of Wanya of The Bizzies.

Personal life

In October 2012, he married his college sweetheart, Cathryn Stringer. He currently resides in Montclair, New Jersey.

Stage credits

Film and television credits

Awards and nominations

References

References

1. Blank, Matthew. (October 26, 2010). "Playbill.com's Cue & A: ''The Scottsboro Boys''{{'}} Joshua Henry". Playbill.
2. "Joshua Henry". Celebrity Buzz.
3. Henry, Alan. (April 16, 2017). "Breaking: Jessie Mueller, Joshua Henry, Renée Fleming to Star in CAROUSEL on Broadway". BroadwayWorld.
4. Rosky, Nicole. (August 1, 2016). "Breaking News: Joshua Henry, Mandy Gonzalez & Jonathan Kirkland Will Join HAMILTON in Chicago and Broadway!".
5. Mcphee, Ryan. (November 29, 2021). "Joshua Henry Joins Ciara Renée in Waitress on Broadway November 29". Playbill.
6. Culwell-Block, Logan. (May 26, 2022). "Encores! Into the Woods Sets Broadway Transfer With Patina Miller, Brian D'Arcy James, Phillipa Soo, Joshua Henry, Sara Bareilles, More". Playbill.
7. Tangcay, Jazz. (2022-09-09). "ABC's 'Beauty and the Beast' Special Casts Josh Groban, Rita Moreno and Joshua Henry (EXCLUSIVE)".
8. Nestruck, J. Kelly. (May 3, 2011). "Tony nods take the road less hyped". The Globe and Mail.
9. Dziemianowicz, Joe. (October 3, 2010). "Joshua Henry is on the brink of a Broadway breakthrough with the lead role in 'The Scottsboro Boys'". NY Daily News.
10. "Joshua Henry – Theatre Credits". BroadwayWorld.
11. "Broadway Revival of Godspell Postponed". Playbill.
12. Jones, Kenneth. (January 8, 2009). "''In the Heights'' Is in the 'Hits' Category; Producers Recoup Investment".
13. (September 10, 2008). "In the Heights Wins Actors' Equity Outstanding Broadway Chorus Award". Broadway.com.
14. (December 7, 2007). "'Serenade' Opens 12/9 with Anika Larsen & Joshua Henry". BroadwayWorld.
15. "Shafrika, The White Girl". Lortel Archives.
16. Jones, Kenneth. (January 5, 2010). "''American Idiot'' Will Rock Broadway's St. James Starting March 24".
17. Hetrick, Adam. (July 19, 2010). "Wallace Smith Will Enlist in Broadway's ''American Idiot'' July 20".
18. Jones, Kenneth. (March 15, 2011). "Joshua Henry Re-Ups for ''American Idiot''; David Larsen and P.J. Griffith Also Join Rock Musical". Playbill.
19. (March 15, 2011). "Joshua Henry Returns to ''American Idiot''; David Larsen and P.J. Griffith Also Join Cast". Broadway.com.
20. Kenneth, Jones. (July 8, 2010). "Joshua Henry Joins Broadway's ''Scottsboro Boys''; Domingo, Hicks and Most Vineyard Troupers Continue". Playbill.
21. Nondorf, Tom. (November 18, 2010). "The Leading Men: Joshua Henry of ''The Scottsboro Boys''". Playbill.
22. Royce, Graydon. (August 7, 2010). "'Scottsboro Boys' is both disturbing and entertaining". The Star Tribune.
23. Isherwood, Charles. (October 31, 2010). "Revisiting an Outrage With Gallows Humor". The New York Times.
24. Jones, Kenneth. (December 13, 2010). "Roars of Approval, and Also Remembrance, at Final Bow of ''The Scottsboro Boys''".
25. Gans, Andrew. (December 9, 2010). "Tony Rulings: ''Brief Encounter'' and ''Long Story'' Are Best Plays; ''Daisy'' and ''Life'' Are Revivals".
26. Diamond, Robert. (May 3, 2011). "2011 Tony Nominations Announced! THE BOOK OF MORMON Leads With 14!". BroadwayWorld.
27. Gans, Andrew. (January 22, 2011). "Andrea Burns, Joshua Henry, Bobby Steggert Recall ''Broadway Memories'' Jan. 22". Playbill.
28. McBride, Walter. (March 2, 2011). "Photo Coverage: STRO! A Gala Celebration - Part One".
29. McBride, Walter. (March 15, 2011). "Photo Coverage: 2011 MCC MISCAST Gala – Danes, Dancy, Borle, Leo & More!". BroadwayWorld.
30. Higgins, Beau. (March 8, 2011). "Joshua Henry in 'Broadway Unplugged' At University Of Miami". BroadwayWorld.
31. Gans, Andrew. (April 1, 2011). "''Broadway Sensation'' Benefit Will Be Held at Alice Tully Hall in May". Playbill.
32. Lewis, Jessica. (April 14, 2011). "Henry, Boykin and Dollison Join McDonald, Lewis & Grier in ''Porgy & Bess'' at A.R.T.; Cast Complete". BroadwayWorld.
33. [https://playbill.com/article/the-scottsboro-boys-with-hal-linden-joshua-henry-and-jc-montgomery-premieres-in-la-may-21-com-205863 The Scottsboro Boys, With Hal Linden, Joshua Henry and J.C. Montgomery, Premieres in L.A. May 21]
34. (17 February 2015). "Jeremy Jordan and Joshua Henry impress in a grand 'Parade' at Lincoln Center".
35. Piepenburg, Erik. (August 11, 2016). "Cynthia Erivo and Joshua Henry to Star in 'Last Five Years' Benefit". New York Times.
36. [https://twitter.com/Lin_Manuel/status/942730985669644288?s=20&t=oZKWBV25I3R86KCjymeZbQ Vassar College Hamilton]
37. Wild, Stephi. (November 18, 2020). "Wake Up With BWW 11/18: Joshua Henry Joins HAMILTON Thanksgiving Performance, and More!". BroadwayWorld.
38. (12 April 2018). "First Look at Jessie Mueller and Joshua Henry in Carousel on Broadway". Playbill.
39. [https://culturalattache.co/2022/04/28/joshua-henry-talks-all-about-broadway/ Joshua Henry Talks All About Broadway]
40. Mcphee, Ryan. (November 29, 2021). "Joshua Henry Joins Ciara Renée in Waitress on Broadway November 29". Playbill.
41. Culwell-Block, Logan. (May 26, 2022). "Encores! Into the Woods Sets Broadway Transfer With Patina Miller, Brian D'Arcy James, Phillipa Soo, Joshua Henry, Sara Bareilles, More". Playbill.
42. Harms, Talaura. (September 22, 2022). "Brian D'Arcy James and Andy Karl Will Return to Broadway's Into the Woods". Playbill.
43. Karl, Andy. (November 28, 2022). "Back in the woods until Friday 12/2!". Instagram.
44. "Into the Woods 2022-23 Playbill". Playbill.
45. [https://instagram.com/stories/joshuahenryofficial/3238450649829712231?igshid=MzY1NDJmNzMyNQ== The Conversation Program]
46. [https://playbill.com/article/joshua-henry-caissie-levy-and-brandon-uranowitz-will-star-in-city-center-ragtime Joshua Henry, Caissie Levy, and Brandon Uranowitz Will Star in City Center Ragtime]
47. [https://www.nytimes.com/2024/10/31/theater/ragtime-review-city-center.html# Review: A Vocally Splendid ‘Ragtime’ Raises the Roof]
48. "'Ragtime' review: Joshua Henry leads powerhouse ensemble in Broadway revival".
49. Paulson, Michael [https://www.nytimes.com/2025/05/06/theater/ragtime-broadway.html ‘Ragtime’ Is Returning to Broadway] New York Times, May 6, 2025
50. "Joshua Henry". Amazon.
51. Tangcay, Jazz. (2022-09-09). "ABC's 'Beauty and the Beast' Special Casts Josh Groban, Rita Moreno and Joshua Henry (EXCLUSIVE)".
52. Pimienta, Pablo. (September 25, 2008). "Photo Coverage: Kerrigan & Lowdermilk's ''Party Worth Crashing'' Concert at the Zipper Factory". BroadwayWorld.
53. Peter, Thomas. (November 30, 2010). "Corbin Bleu, Andrea Burns, Joshua Henry Featured On 'Dare To Go Beyond' CD, Due in December". Playbill.
54. Gans, Andrew. (January 16, 2011). "''You Made This Tour'' Concert, With Joshua Henry, Laura Osnes, Natalie Weiss, Presented Jan. 16". Playbill.
55. (February 14, 2011). "Lyrics & Lyricists at 92Y Host A Tribute to Burton Lane 2/14". BroadwayWorld.
56. Shaffer, Claire. (January 13, 2021). "Joshua Henry Releases Cover of the O'Jays' 'Stand Up'".
57. JaSupreme. (2021-09-10). "Singer Joshua Henry Releases Debut Album "Grow" LISTEN to New Single "Stand Up"!". TheUrbanMusicScene.com.
58. Major, Michael. (2022-12-13). "Listen: Joshua Henry Releases New Single 'Can't Nobody Tell Us Nothin'{{-'}}".
59. [https://playbill.com/article/joshua-henry-busta-rhymes-timothy-hughes-more-join-warriors-concept-album-cast Joshua Henry, Busta Rhymes, Timothy Hughes, More Join Warriors Concept Album Cast]
60. [https://playbill.com/article/lin-manuel-miranda-and-eisa-davis-say-warriors-had-to-be-an-album-first Lin-Manuel Miranda and Eisa Davis Say Warriors Had to Be an Album First]
61. [https://playbill.com/article/critics-sound-off-on-lin-manuel-miranda-eisa-davis-musical-concept-album-warriors Critics Sound Off on Lin-Manuel Miranda, Eisa Davis Musical Concept Album Warriors]
62. Henderson, Kathy. (April 14, 2014). "''Violet'' Star Joshua Henry on Life Lessons From Audra & Sutton and How to Eat Cheesecake While Staying Fit".
63. [https://www.playbill.com/article/joshua-henry-caissie-levy-and-brandon-uranowitz-will-star-in-city-center-ragtime Joshua Henry, Caissie Levy, and Brandon Uranowitz Will Star in City Center Ragtime]