Rosie O’Donnell Credits Broadway for Her Success
Let me tell you something real. Rosie O’Donnell isn’t shy about sharing her story, and she’s the first to admit that without Broadway, her life would’ve taken a completely different path. From the early days of performing on stage to becoming a household name, Rosie has always been inspired by the magic of theater. It wasn’t just about the spotlight; it was about finding a community that truly understood her.
“It’s important to remember where you came from,” says Rosie, now 57, in an exclusive chat with Closer Weekly at the annual fall gala for Rosie’s Theater Kids in NYC on November 18. “No matter how far you’ve come or what you’ve achieved, you can’t forget what shaped you. For me, it was theater—it gave me a sense of belonging and purpose.”
The Spark That Lit the Flame
For Rosie, the journey began long before her big break on Star Search in 1984. It was the environment she found outside her home—at school—that truly set her on this path. “I was so lucky to attend a public school with a thriving theater department,” Rosie recalls. “Those teachers didn’t just teach us how to act or sing; they cared about us as people. Even though my home life wasn’t always easy, I felt loved and supported at school. Those experiences shaped who I am today.”
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She continues, “It wasn’t just about putting on a show. It was about creating a safe space where creativity could flourish. That’s why giving back feels so meaningful to me. If theater changed my life, then I want it to change someone else’s too.”
Rosie’s Theater Kids: A Legacy of Giving Back
This is exactly why Rosie founded Rosie’s Theater Kids in 2003. According to their website, Rosie’s Theater Kids is more than just an arts education program—it’s a lifeline for kids who might not otherwise have access to the transformative power of theater. “Our mission is simple,” explains Rosie. “We aim to enrich the lives of children through the arts. By providing comprehensive classes in music, dance, drama, and more, we help kids discover their talents, build confidence, and envision a brighter future.”
And it’s not just about teaching skills. Rosie’s Theater Kids also offers mentorship, academic guidance, and a supportive community. “We’re not just preparing kids for the stage,” she says. “We’re preparing them for life.”
