Grammy-winning artist Laufey is aiming to take on the role of Claire in the upcoming production “Maybe Happy Ending.” The half-Chinese, half-Icelandic singer-songwriter has expressed her enthusiasm for portraying Claire, reflecting a deeper connection to the character’s emotional journey. “Her demeanor really calls to me,” Laufey stated, sharing insights into her personal experiences with love and vulnerability.
Laufey’s Musical Journey
This year marks a significant moment in Laufey’s career, intertwining her music with her passion for the theatre. Recently, she attended the 2025 Tony Awards, where her presence underscored her growing involvement in musical theatre. Additionally, she performed a duet with Lin-Manuel Miranda during her concert at Madison Square Garden.
A Soaring Career
- Nominee for a 2026 Grammy Award for her album “A Matter of Time.”
- Collaborated with Barbra Streisand on a duet for “The Secrets of Life: Partners, Volume 2.”
- Gained recognition for her original song “Letter to My 13 Year Old Self.”
Laufey’s eclectic background as a classical musician, ballerina, and figure skater has profoundly influenced her artistic style. Her love for musical theatre stemmed from watching classic films like “Mary Poppins” and “The Sound of Music.” These films, along with others such as “My Fair Lady” and “Carousel,” formed the foundation of her musical education.
Musical Inspirations
Among her varied influences, “An American in Paris” holds a special place in Laufey’s heart. The 2016 live stage adaptation inspired her to embrace the fusion of classical and jazz music. “It is the ultimate blend of classical music and jazz,” Laufey explained, emphasizing the impact of George and Ira Gershwin’s work on her creative direction.
Connection to Theatre
Her experiences with musicals like “Waitress” deepened her understanding of contemporary storytelling in performance art. Laufey cited both “Carousel” and its memorable song “Mr. Snow” as critical inspirations for her new album. The album captures the whimsical and poignant storytelling that characterizes successful musicals.
A Collaborator in the Spotlight
Recently, Laufey’s collaboration with Barbra Streisand has garnered significant attention. Their duet not only celebrates their artistic connection but also explores the themes of self-discovery and resilience. “All I’ve ever wanted is to write songs that transcend the meaning of just me,” she remarked, highlighting her intention to connect deeply with audiences.
Engagement with the Theatre Community
Laufey is also becoming a notable figure among younger theatre enthusiasts, especially through social media platforms. During her sold-out show at Madison Square Garden in October, she embraced the viral TikTok trend “Best of Wives and Best of Women” with Lin-Manuel Miranda, solidifying her connection with contemporary theatre culture.
Future Aspirations
At just 26 years old, Laufey has big dreams for her future in theatre. She aspires to write her own musical, acknowledging the importance of gaining firsthand experience in a production. “I really, really want to write a musical,” she expressed, indicating her commitment to exploring the intricacies of theatre.
With her ambitions aligned with her burgeoning career, Laufey’s pursuit of the role of Claire in “Maybe Happy Ending” is just one of many exciting developments ahead in her journey through the world of music and theatre.
