After a stint on the fourth season of American Idol, Constantine Maroulis moved on to Broadway, starring first in The Wedding Singer and then in Rock of Ages, originating the role of wannabe rocker Drew, and earning a Tony Award nomination for Best Actor. Now, Maroulis is kicking off 2012 as nerdy scientist Melvin Ferd the Third in The Toxic Avenger at the Alley Theatre in Houston, Texas. TheaterMania caught up with Maroulis to discuss the show, his experiences with Rock of Ages, and his advice for other reality show contestants.

THEATERMANIA: What made you want to do this show?
CONSTANTINE MAROULIS: I have been a fan of co-writers David Bryan and Joe DiPietro for a long time.… Read the rest

THEATERMANIA: This is your Broadway debut.… Read the rest

Sanjaya Malakar was one of the most memorable contestants during Season 6 of “American Idol.” Since then, he went on to tour with the top 10 finalists from his season, wrote a book, “Dancing in the Music in My Head,” and released an EP. Malakar is now making his New York stage debut in the off-Broadway hit musical, Freckleface Strawberry, at New World Stages. The musical is based on the popular children’s book by Julianne Moore.

BroadwayWorld spoke with Malakar about his days on “Idol” and his off-Broadway debut.

What have you been up to since your “American Idol” days?

Working! I have been keeping busy working on a full-length album, and developing my songwriting.… Read the rest

Each month, Broadway World is shining the spotlight on stage actors making their Broadway debut as part of our “Debut of the Month” series.

This month, Broadway World is showcasing actor and recording artist Justin Guarini, who is making his Broadway debut as Carlos in Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown, based on the 1988 film of the same title.

Guarini became a household name back in 2002 when he was the runner-up on the first season of “American Idol.” He released his self-titled album one year later, and then co-produced his second album “Stranger Things Have Happened.” Guarini is a host and correspondent for the TV Guide Network, covering red carpet events such as the Oscar, Grammy and Emmy Awards, and is currently at work on his third album.… Read the rest

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