Rosie O'Donnell and Kristin Chenoweth Will Read Musical

The two stars will collaborate on a new, unnamed musical project set for a reading on October 19.

Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Variety

Screen-print poster illustration of an empty wooden theater stage under a dramatic spotlight, evoking the anticipation of a new theatrical production. — Rosie O'Donnell and Kristin Chenoweth are set to headline a private reading for an untitled new Broadway musical on October 19. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Rosie O'Donnell and Kristin Chenoweth are set to participate in a reading for an unnamed new musical on October 19. O'Donnell revealed the casting details in a recent TikTok video.

Why it matters

Collaborative readings serve as a critical development phase for new Broadway productions, allowing actors and creators to test material before staging. This pairing brings together two prominent figures for a private performance of unreleased theatrical work.

The reading is scheduled for a single day following O'Donnell's conclusion of her performance as the Narrator in The Rocky Horror Show. No further commercial metrics or production budgets have been released for this project.

The players

Rosie O'Donnell

An American comedian, actress, and television personality who recently performed in The Rocky Horror Show on Broadway.

Kristin Chenoweth

An acclaimed stage and screen actress known for her Tony-winning work in musical theater and her recent appearance on the reality series The Traitors.

The details

Rosie O'Donnell confirmed her participation in the reading shortly before wrapping up her tenure on the Broadway stage. Kristin Chenoweth joins the project immediately following her return from filming The Traitors in Scotland.

October 18, 2026: O'Donnell concludes her run in The Rocky Horror Show.
October 19, 2026: The reading of the new musical takes place.

Industry Dynamics

This project follows the traditional path of the development process of the musical Hamilton, where intimate readings are used to refine scripts and scores. Such collaborations highlight the ongoing industry reliance on star-studded workshops to move new productions toward a Broadway debut.

As this is a private industry reading, the event is not open to the general public or ticketed for performance. Fans may see future updates if the production secures a commercial staging or official premiere date.

The takeaway

Musical readings are essential steps for performers to gauge the potential of new creative material. Following the event, O'Donnell is expected to travel to Ireland for future professional engagements.