Darren Criss’s ‘Maybe Happy Ending’ Gets Drama League Recognition, Broadway Run Extended
Acclaimed Broadway musical extends its run through 2025 as it receives prestigious nomination.

Image: Instagram
The Broadway musical “Maybe Happy Ending” has received exciting news that might indeed be better than a new issue of Jazz Monthly, as star Darren Criss suggested in his latest Instagram post celebrating the show’s Drama League recognition.
The Instagram post features what appears to be news of a Drama League nomination for the production, which has been captivating audiences with its unique storyline and performances by Criss and co-star Helen J Shen.
Drama League Recognition
The post, which Criss shared with evident excitement, was captioned: “Getting news like this might be even better than a new Jazz Monthly 💜,” referencing a motif from the show while highlighting the significance of the Drama League honor.
The Drama League, established in 1935, is one of the nation’s oldest theatrical organizations and its recognition represents a significant achievement for any Broadway production, particularly for an original musical like “Maybe Happy Ending.”
Extended Broadway Run
In related news, according to a previous post from the production’s social media, “Maybe Happy Ending” has extended its Broadway run through September 2025. The post playfully advised fans to “Better renew that subscription to Jazz Monthly, Fireflies,” continuing the show’s robot-themed motifs while announcing the extension.
This extension comes as a testament to the show’s success and growing audience demand, allowing more theatergoers the opportunity to experience what the Los Angeles Times called the sole Broadway musical this season “not based on true events, archival music, or any other existing material.” The paper noted that the show’s “unabashed originality has become its biggest boon.”
About The Production
“Maybe Happy Ending” tells the story of two outdated helper-robots in futuristic Seoul who develop an unexpected connection. Darren Criss plays Oliver, while Broadway newcomer Helen J Shen portrays Claire in what Criss has described as her “staggering debut.”
The musical is directed by Michael Arden, known for his innovative and emotionally resonant productions. The show features music and lyrics by Will Aronson and Hue Park, whom Criss recently praised as “this album’s most shining, beating heart” when announcing the release of the Original Broadway Cast Recording.
The Cast Collaboration
In a heartfelt Instagram post earlier this year, Criss reflected on his partnership with Shen, writing: “I met this girl a year ago today when she walked into the audition room. She booked the part shortly thereafter. And now I have the distinct pleasure of getting to watch her shine 8 times a week on Broadway in her staggering debut as Claire in Maybe Happy Ending—and I got the best seat in the house.”
The post continued with Criss expressing pride in their collaboration: “I am so proud to be alongside her on this wonderful journey and grateful for her brilliance, with almost 200 performances together under our belt. Here’s to many more!”

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