In the bustling streets of Mayfair, a name has been on everyone’s lips lately — Dylan Mulvaney. Formerly an actress who has now transitioned into a successful influencer, Mulvaney has amassed an astounding 10.6 million followers on TikTok, where she fearlessly shares her journey as a transgender woman. Page Six has recently broken the news that Mulvaney received an exclusive invitation to audition for the highly anticipated Broadway revival of the iconic musical “Cabaret.” With Eddie Redmayne expected to take the male lead, Mulvaney had the opportunity to showcase her talent and potentially secure the role of Sally Bowles, the captivating British cabaret performer. This article delves into Mulvaney’s rise to fame, the controversy surrounding her, and the significance of this audition for her career.
Before her meteoric rise on TikTok, Mulvaney completed her studies in musical theater and embarked on a successful national tour of the critically acclaimed musical “Book of Mormon,” where she impressed audiences with her portrayal of the lead role, Elder White. Furthermore, she graced the stages of Off-Broadway productions, displaying her versatility as a performer. However, it was her foray into the world of social media that propelled her into the limelight.
In April, Mulvaney found herself at the center of a maelstrom when she shared a video featuring a specially designed can of Bud Light adorned with her face. This seemingly innocent gesture sparked a vehement backlash from right-wing factions, resulting in a significant boycott and a staggering $5 billion drop in the stock price of Anheuser-Busch, Bud Light’s parent company. The incident also led to Modelo surpassing Bud Light as America’s bestselling brew.
Anheuser-Busch’s CEO, Brendan Whitworth, was quick to distance the company from the controversy, stating that they “never intended to be part of a discussion that divides people.” Mulvaney, however, expressed her disappointment with the lack of public support from the company that had hired a transgender influencer, noting that she felt abandoned during this trying time. Despite Bud Light’s subsequent claims of commitment to the LGBTQ+ community, Mulvaney felt that their actions spoke louder than words.
Nevertheless, it is in the realm of Broadway that Mulvaney now finds herself amidst an ocean of opportunity. The audition for the coveted role of Sally Bowles in the upcoming revival of “Cabaret” offers a chance for her to showcase her talent on one of the most iconic stages in the world. From Liza Minelli to Michelle Williams, Emma Stone to Sienna Miller, many illustrious women have breathed life into this complex character. Mulvaney aspires to not only join their ranks but also bring her unique perspective as a transgender woman to the character’s narrative.
Set against the backdrop of a nightclub in Berlin during the rise of the Nazis, “Cabaret” is a cultural touchstone that has captivated audiences for decades. Previously, “Cabaret” garnered immense praise with its seven Olivier Awards in London and successful run on Broadway in 2014, featuring renowned actresses in the role of Sally Bowles. Notably, the New York production saw Shia LaBeouf’s infamous arrest for drunken behavior during one of the performances, which starred Alan Cumming as the Emcee. These moments cemented the show’s place in theater history, further heightening the anticipation for its revival.
As Mulvaney auditions for Broadway’s “Cabaret,” she stands on the precipice of a potential breakthrough in her career. The role of Sally Bowles is not just any role; it carries the weight of history and the expectations of both passionate theatergoers and ardent fans of the musical. However, Mulvaney’s journey is not merely about securing the role. It is a testament to her resilience, talent, and the progress of transgender representation in the entertainment industry. By fearlessly sharing her story on TikTok, Mulvaney has undoubtedly become a beacon of hope for others, proving that dreams can be achieved regardless of gender identity.
In a world where the spotlight can be both exhilarating and merciless, Dylan Mulvaney’s audacity to pursue her passion for theater has not gone unnoticed. Now, as she takes the stage for her audition, she enters the footsteps of legendary performers who have left an indelible mark on Broadway. The Broadway community eagerly awaits the emergence of a new star, hoping that Mulvaney’s talent will shine brightly in the revival of “Cabaret.”