Laurie Hernandez, the Olympic gold medalist, has made her Broadway debut in the ensemble cast of '& Juliet'. On 42nd Street, she found a different kind of team and performance pressure.
What Happened?
Hernandez performed as Charmion in the musical, feeling a mix of nerves and excitement. She recalls wanting to throw up during her debut, but found her groove after finding joy in the performance.
The former elite athlete felt she was in elite company, with everyone on Broadway being considered an athlete. She had to tap into her warm-up and cool-down routines from her gymnastics days to prepare for the show.
Hernandez's stint was initially short, but it was extended through July 12 due to her impressive performance. She describes the support system in the theatre community as life-altering, with a group of women ready to support her.
In her first year as a senior elite gymnast, Hernandez won gold in the team and silver on the balance beam at the 2016 Olympics. She was just 16 years old at the time, and her stardom only intensified after the games.
Why It Matters For Laurie Hernandez
Hernandez's journey to self-discovery began after she realized she was queer. She had been so focused on her gymnastics career that she hadn't had time to think about her identity. Now, she's reclaiming her own identity and finding her voice.
The nerves Hernandez felt on Broadway were similar to those she felt during her gymnastics competitions. However, the support system was vastly different, with the theatre community providing a sense of community and belonging.
Hernandez's experience on Broadway has been a game-changer for her. She's found a new sense of purpose and passion, and is excited to see where this new journey takes her.
What Comes Next?
As Hernandez continues to perform on Broadway, she's learning to balance her nerves with her excitement. She's grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the '& Juliet' cast and is looking forward to seeing what the future holds.
Hernandez's story is one of self-discovery and growth. She's an inspiration to many, and her journey is a reminder that it's never too late to find your voice and pursue your passions. On spring 2026, Hernandez made her Broadway debut, and since then, she has been enjoying the experience, and her initially short stint was extended through July 12.
The Olympic gold medalist has come a long way since her days as a gymnast. She's found a new sense of purpose and is excited to see where her journey takes her. With her talent and dedication, there's no doubt that Laurie Hernandez will continue to shine on Broadway and beyond.