Tony-nominated actor and singer Derek Klena chatted about his latest endeavors, which include returning to “Wicked the Musical” for two weeks and being a part of the Tribeca Film Festival.
Klena on the 2025 Tribeca Film Festival
Klena was a special guest at the world premiere of the “Room to Move” documentary, directed by Alexander Hammer, which was executive produced by Amy Schumer.
On being a part of the 2025 Tribeca Film Festival, Klena said, “I am ecstatic for some of my dearest friends. It is such a fitting stage to debut this film. They have been working tirelessly on it for years now.”
“So, I couldn’t be more thrilled for them to see it come to fruition in such a powerful way,” Klena noted.
Klena on ‘Room to Move’ documentary
Following the Tribeca screening of “Room to Move,” Klena remarked in a social media post, “Parent’s night out to see one of the most profound cinematic experiences of our lives.”
“Jenn Freeman, Alexander Hammer, and Ian Stuart, we could not be more proud to be in your lives and to be along for your epic, resilient, fearless, monumental climb to this premiere,” he said.
“Through blood, sweat, and tears you revealed the most beautiful raw truths and artistry of the neurodivergent mind and we are all so lucky for it. Congratulations on your Tribeca Film Festival, triumph and can’t wait to see what’s next for this incredible team,” Klena elaborated.
‘Wicked the Musical’
Most recently, he returned to “Wicked the Musical” on Broadway for a two-week stint.
“It was a fast and furious two week,” he admitted. “It was my first time back in 12 years. I have a 2.5-year-old son and a seven-month-old son now. It really cool because my 2.5 year-old got to see his first Broadway show, and I was in it.”
“It is just awesome to see the resurgence and love for ‘Wicked’ and it was great to be back in that building,” he added.
Advice for young and emerging performers
For young and aspiring performers, Klena said, “Seize every opportunity. You never know who is going to be there, or who is going to be watching, or where it’s going to lead.”
“So, stick your neck out there whether you think it’s worth it or not is always going to be worth it,” he added.
Stage of his life
On the title of the current chapter of his life, Klena revealed, “Adulting and Surviving.”
Superpower of choice
Klena’s superpower of choice would be “flying,” especially since he finds “flying cool.”
Success
Regarding his definition of the word success, Klena stated, “Success means doing what you love, and having the people you love around you.”
Message for his fans and supporters
For his fans and supporters, Klena expressed, “The fans are a part of that love. I’ve been surrounded by love and support.”
“I wouldn’t be where I am today if it weren’t for the people that love and support me, and the people who come to the shows that I’m involved in,” Klena concluded.
To learn more about Derek Klena, follow him on Instagram.
