Ben Platt, the talented actor and singer, opens up about his experiences with anxiety and the impact of his husband, Noah Galvin, on his mental health. In a candid interview, Platt discusses his latest creative project, the musical Midnight at the Never Get, which takes place in a 1960s Greenwich Village gay bar. He plays the cabaret crooner Trevor, a character that allows him to explore queer romance and express himself freely. Platt's journey to this point has been marked by a desire to grow up quickly and a focus on his craft, but it has also been challenging due to the pressures of the industry.
Platt's anxiety is a constant companion, and he attributes his ability to manage it to his relationship with Galvin. He finds solace in having a creative project to focus on, which helps him stay grounded. The musical, directed by David Cromer, allows Platt to explore a different side of himself, singing love lyrics to another man, a liberating experience for the actor.
The political undertones of the musical are evident, especially given the current state of gay rights in the United States. Platt acknowledges the sense of helplessness and fear that many Americans feel, particularly in the context of the Trump administration. However, he finds optimism and hope in New York City, where he resides.
Platt's stage career began at a young age, and he quickly rose to prominence with roles in musicals like Dear Evan Hansen. The show's impact on his personal life was profound, as he had to commit to the character's emotional journey, putting his own development on hold. The subsequent movie adaptation, however, faced criticism, with Platt being derided as too old for the role. Despite the challenges, Platt remains grateful for the opportunity and the lessons learned.
One of Platt's most coveted roles is that of George in Sunday in the Park With George, a musical by Stephen Sondheim. Platt admires Sondheim's work and considers him a mentor, but he has yet to perform a professional stage production of his music. However, he is currently working on the film adaptation of Merrily We Roll Along, another Sondheim musical, which is being filmed in real-time.
Platt's ambitions extend beyond Sondheim, as he hopes to perform Angels in America at some point in his career. He embraces the unpredictability of the industry, stating that the ideal scenario is always for something new to come crashing through. As he continues to navigate his career and personal life, Platt remains focused on his craft and the impact he can have through his art.
