This past Thursday actor and singer Darren Criss visited SRU for this year’s Talkback and Tunes event hosted by The University Program Board (UPB).
Criss is known for his roles as Blaine Anderson in the tv show Glee and American Crime Story, as well as performing on Broadway.
The event was held in the ballroom of the Smith Student Center. Doors opened at 6 p.m. and the show began at 7 p.m.
Fans lined up on the third floor of the SSC and expressed their excitement to see Criss.
“I’m definitely excited, Glee is like my comfort show,” an SRU student said.
Three individuals arrived at the SSC at 2:30 p.m. the day of the show to be first in line.
A few students wore t-shirts or outfits from the TV show Glee.
The event was a moderated conversation where he answered multiple questions then sang a few songs to conclude the event.
Individuals were also given the opportunity to write down their questions prior to the event, to potentially have them answered by Criss.
The actor showed his excitement for being at SRU by wearing the school’s colors green and white, while talking about how grateful he is for the opportunity to do these types of events.
“I don’t take these things for granted, even though I’m farther away from having been a college student than I’d like to think. I still very much identify with student life and student culture as most artists tend to try to be students their whole life,” Criss said.
Criss answered multiple questions, some including what it has been like to work on TV shows and on Broadway. As well as talking about what it was like working on American Crime Story and getting the part on Glee.
The actor then talked to the audience about being in tech for a new Broadway show and what that has been like.
He also answered some fan questions written down prior to the event. Including asking what he is passionate about outside of entertainment and if there is a show and movie Criss would want to be in.
After answering various questions, the actor sang a few songs for the audience.
Students expressed their love for these types of events on campus.
“I think that events like this gives students opportunities to see people that we otherwise wouldn’t have,” an SRU student said.
“I think it’s also a good opportunity to spend time with your friends and share a common interest ’cause I think since we all like Darren it will be fun,” another SRU student said.
