Cheyenne Jackson Brings his Heartfelt Performance to Worcester
{Jenny Pacillo}
Courtesy of Pasadena Playhouse, Photo by Jeff Lorch
Emmy and Grammy-nominated Cheyenne Jackson is bringing his acclaimed show, Signs of Life, to the Brickbox Theater at the Jean McDonough Arts Center in downtown Worcester on May 22nd to end the 2024 - 2025 Broadway in Worcester season. Signs of Life, a musical meditation on art, love, fatherhood, and the cosmic twists that have shaped Jackson’s life, takes audiences on a hilariously intimate exploration of the universe’s subtle cues. With catchy melodies ranging from songs by Coldplay and Lady Gaga to Cole Porter, this will be an unforgettable night filled with laughter, personal stories and amazing music.
Cheyenne Jackson is a name many associate with powerful performances on stage and screen. You may recognize him from American Horror Story, or his guest appearances in 30 Rock and Glee. Jackson has sold out Carnegie Hall twice, and also stars in The Descendants 3 as Hades. His upcoming show in Worcester promises to be something truly special. Known for his dynamic voice, charismatic stage presence, and unwavering support for the LGBTQ+ community, Jackson’s visit to Central Massachusetts will not only showcase his immense talent but also celebrate the importance of visibility and connection within the queer community.
This marks Jackson’s first time performing in Worcester, and his excitement about the upcoming event is palpable. “I’ve never been to Worcester and am very excited to,” he says, noting the personal connection he has to the area. “My Music Director Willy is from the area, and it’s his birthday that night, so I’m excited for him to have this moment. I love MA and have really only ever been to Boston, so I’m REALLY excited to come.” His first visit to the city is bound to be a memorable one for both Jackson and his fans.
Jackson’s work in the entertainment industry has had a lasting impact, particularly for LGBTQ+ individuals who have seen their stories represented more often on screen and stage. For Jackson, representation is everything. “I always go back to visibility. I believe seeing ourselves in all facets of art and media contributes to us feeling seen and heard,” he explains. “It makes me feel less alone in the world. It makes me feel a part of a community.” These sentiments are reflected in the way he brings his personal experiences into his performances, allowing his fans to see themselves in his art.
As an openly gay performer, Jackson has always embraced the intersection of his identity and his work. His artistry is informed by his life experiences, both the pain and the joy. “I suppose being an out queer artist informs everything I do in a way, because when I choose a role or a song or a piece, I am bringing my whole self to the project. my life experiences, my pain, my joy, all of it.” This raw honesty and vulnerability resonate with audiences, making his performances deeply personal and powerful.
Jackson’s advocacy work for LGBTQ+ rights also plays a key role in his career. Growing up in a small town, he understands the importance of building a community and creating safe spaces. “Being from a super small town (population 180), I know the importance of advocating for community,” he reflects. “We as queer people need to create our own families, our own communities, and our own safe places. Doing that early on in my life saved me, like when I joined a gay volleyball team called ‘SAFE SETS.’” His personal story and commitment to LGBTQ+ rights have been a driving force in his advocacy, and it’s something he continues to champion, especially for those in smaller, less visible regions like Central Massachusetts.
While his activism is vital, Jackson’s passion for live performance remains at the heart of his work. “Doing live shows is where it’s at for me. It’s where I feel the most alive, the most connected,” he says. His deep connection with the audience is a key part of what makes his shows so special. “I ensure the audience feels seen and heard by me opening myself up first and getting vulnerable. My husband always says, ‘YOU go first.’ So that’s what I try and do up there. I go first, and hopefully the audience can then see themselves in my story.” Jackson’s ability to be vulnerable on stage allows him to connect with fans in a deeply authentic way, making every performance an intimate experience.
Throughout his career, Jackson has been inspired by a range of artists. He cites musical legends like George Michael, Freddie Mercury, and Tom Jones as early influences on his vocal style and artistry. “George Michael’s musicality and his passion really inspired me,” he recalls. “Also, Freddie Mercury and Tom Jones’s voices were a huge influence.” When it comes to his advocacy work, Jackson looks up to friends Kenneth Cole and Maria Cuomo, whom he warmly describes as, “just incredible charitable people who live a life of service.”
As an artist who has always championed inclusivity, Jackson is dedicated to creating spaces where everyone feels welcome. “Anyone who comes to a show of mine can be sure they’ll have a gay old time,” he jokes. But beyond the humor, he is serious about ensuring that every person in the audience feels seen and celebrated, particularly members of the LGBTQ+ community who may be seeking safe and supportive spaces.
Looking toward the future, Jackson is optimistic about the continued progress of LGBTQ+ representation in the arts. “I love that younger and younger artists are coming out,” he says with a smile. “I’ve always said, ‘Come out, folks…it’s incredible out here!’ My hope for the future is that they don’t have to write ‘openly gay’ in front of my name forever and ever. Can you imagine them writing ‘openly straight Tom Hanks’? LOL.” For Jackson, the goal is simple: a world where labels no longer matter, and artists can simply be who they are without explanation.
For the fans in Worcester and surrounding areas, Jackson has one final message, “I hope they feel entertained, inspired, and loved. See you there!” With his authenticity, passion, and unwavering support for the LGBTQ+ community, Jackson’s performance promises to be an unforgettable experience—a celebration of love, visibility, and the power of the arts to connect and uplift us all.
If you’re in the Worcester area, don’t miss this chance to see Cheyenne Jackson live. It’s more than just a show; it’s an opportunity to be part of a community, to feel seen and heard, and to celebrate the magic of art in all its forms.