I first was introduced to the great stage actor Norbert Leo Butz a few years ago when John Lithgow was on the talk show circuit promoting the Broadway adaptation of 'Dirty Rotten Scoundrel's'. John's co-star took the spotlight however and although the show had a short run, Norbert went on to win the Tony that year for best actor in a musical.
Since then I have followed Norbert's career. Norbert first hit the big white way in 1996 as Adam Pascal's replacement in 'Rent'. Many off Broadway work and a short stint in 'Thou Shalt Not' followed. It was his role as Fiyero in 'Wicked' that really led audiences to take notice. (critics already had). Norbert went on to marry his 'Wicked' co-star Michelle Federer
Norbert has transcended being type cast as a musical actor and has great success in plays as well including stepping in briefly for Jeremy Piven last season in 'Speed The Plow'. William H. Macy eventually took over the role. Norbert had a difficult summer following the death of his sister but is slated to star in the ABC mid season replacement show 'The Deep End' along side Matt Long. You can listen to more of Norbert's own music at his MySpace fan Page HERE:
Below: Norbert with 'Catch Me If You Can' co-star Aaron Tveit.
Below: Norbert in 'Cabaret'
Norbert with Elizabeth Marvel in Michael Weller's bruising domestic drama 'Fifty Words'.
Below: Norbert with Idina Menzel as Fiyero in 'Wicked'
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