Stage and Screen Star Corbin Bleu Visits LMU for Q&A Panel
LOS ANGELES – Loyola Marymount University’s Mane Entertainment hosted a Q&A panel featuring film and Broadway star Corbin Bleu on Wednesday Feb. 25 from 7 to 9 p.m. During the event, which was held in the Hilton Center for Business, Bleu sat down with moderators who asked him about his career in film and theater and what audiences can expect from his upcoming role as Nick Carraway in Broadway’s “The Great Gatsby.”
Bleu is best known for his breakout role in Disney’s “High School Musical” franchise, along with films like Jump In! and his appearance on Dancing with the Stars. He later transitioned to live theater, making his Broadway debut in In the Heights in 2010 as the character Usnavi de la Vega. Following that performance, he went on to star in Kiss Me, Kate as Bill Calhoun, in Godspell as Jesus, and off-Broadway’s Little Shop of Horrors as Seymour. In April 2025, Bleu starred as Nick Carraway in the West End production of The Great Gatsby and will reprise the role on Broadway in March 2026.
During the panel, Bleu reflected on how his passion for performing began at just two years old when his parents gifted him his first pair of tap shoes. “I am very grateful my parents saw it very early on and nurtured it,” he said. He shared that his father—an actor himself—served as his first mentor. The two even worked together on Jump In!, where his father played his on-screen dad.
When asked about other inspirations throughout his journey, Bleu highlighted Will Smith as a major influence. “Will Smith was a major influential prominent Black actor on the screen,” Bleu shared. He also cited Hugh Jackman as someone he deeply admired. “You saw him as such a masculine, macho man, and then he’s a bona fide musical star. It was so interesting to see that diversity.”
Bleu also offered insight into how he prepares for stage roles. “You always want things to make sense… whether it is a word or a phrase, understand it so it can make sense to the audience as well,” he explained. When first reading a script, he tries not to immediately insert himself into the character. Instead, he focuses on discovering who the character is, conducting research, and building emotional connections rooted in empathy.
When comparing stage and screen work, Bleu made his preference clear: “My heart is on the stage.” He described the unique thrill of live performance, where each night offers the chance to grow and add something new. Preparation plays a key role in calming his nerves. Before stepping onstage, he focuses on breathing techniques—including the “box method” which is a four-step breathing technique where performers inhale, hold, exhale, and pause for four seconds each to calm nerves and improve focus.
When asked which past production had the most positive impact on him, Bleu emphasized his love for the collaborative nature of theater. He spoke about the importance of every individual involved in a production—from cast and crew to lighting and costume designers. “The type of leadership that is possible when you make that effort to make every single person in that room feel seen… that creates an environment where everyone will be collaborative and put their best into making this project,” he said.
One of his favorite experiences was working on Kiss Me, Kate. He recalled walking into rehearsals on the first day questioning whether he truly belonged. Over time, however, he grew more confident and pushed himself creatively. He credited co-star Kelli O’Hara for fostering a supportive and vulnerable rehearsal environment. “She created an environment where you felt comfortable being vulnerable,” Bleu shared.
After the moderated portion concluded, LMU students were invited to ask their own questions. One student asked Bleu to rank the High School Musical trilogy from favorite to least favorite. Bleu said the third film topped his list, noting its larger budget and the emotional experience of filming what felt like a real graduation. The second installment followed closely behind. He especially cherished performing “I Don’t Dance” alongside Lucas Grabeel, who played Ryan Evans. Although he placed the first film last in ranking, he fondly compared filming it to “the first day of school.”
When asked what advice he would give students pursuing creative careers but fearing instability, Bleu answered candidly. “As far as the fear of instability, unfortunately it’s something you have to deal with. Nothing is guaranteed—it’s even a fear of mine.” He discussed the importance of diversifying one’s portfolio across film, television, theater, music, and producing. Referencing industry challenges such as writing strikes and production delays, he acknowledged friends who have struggled to find consistent work. Bleu emphasized gratitude and encouraged students to say yes to opportunities whenever possible. “Every experience is gold,” he said, reminding students that versatility can open unexpected doors.
Bleu’s visit left students not only starstruck but inspired, offering an honest look into the realities of a creative career while encouraging resilience, preparation, and passion.
