Max von Essen Joins the Cast of Anastasia

Max von Essen joined the Broadway cast of Anastasia, taking over the role of Gleb from predecessor Ramin Karimloo, on December 5, and we've now gotten a first look at the An American in Paris star in his first Broadway role since his Tony nomination.

Essen previously appeared in the 2012 revival of Evita as Agustin Magaldi, and in the first revival of Les Misérables as Enjolras. He joins a company that features original cast members Christy Altomare (Anastasia), Derek Klena (Dmitry), John Bolton (Vlad), Caroline O'Connor (Countess Lily), and Mary Beth Peil (Dowager Empress).

Anastasia opened at the Broadhurst Theatre on April 24. The musical features a book by Terrence McNally and an original score by Tony Award winners Stephen Flaherty (music) and Lynn Ahrens (lyrics). Tony winner Darko Tresnjak directs. Ahrens and Flaherty penned the tunes for the 1997 animated film on which the stage musical is based, and have expanded their score, which contains the songs "Once Upon a December" and "Journey to the Past," for the theatrical production.

For tickets and more information, click here.