Ethan Hardy Benson
Ethan Hardy Benson is a New York City–based actor and singer originally from Memphis, Tennessee. A graduate of the University of Michigan's Department of Musical Theatre, he was selected to represent the Orpheum Theatre at the 2017 Jimmy Awards.
Since beginning his professional career, Ethan has performed throughout the United States and Internationally, establishing himself as a versatile leading man in musical theatre. His artistic journey has become closely associated with Jesus Christ Superstar, appearing as nearly every principal male role throughout six productions. Most recently, he appeared in the International Tour as Pilate.
His work has taken him across four countries and dozens of states, bringing stories to audiences on stages large and small. Regardless of venue, he is drawn to work that explores the complexity, resilience, and humanity of the people at its center.
Ethan remains deeply grateful for the teachers, mentors, and artistic communities that helped shape his path from Memphis to stages around the world. Through both performance and mentorship, he is passionate about helping others discover confidence, connection, and a deeper appreciation for the transformative power of storytelling.
Jesus in JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR The Rev (Auburn, NY)
"The performance of Ethan Hardy Benson makes the company's 68th season opener particularly ascendant. His face is pained, his eyes wide and faraway, as he faces the divine burden his final days lay before him. When he sings, he unleashes a falsetto shriek that sounds more than human and yet projects those feelings as only the voice can. Oon the show-stopping "Gethsemane" and other songs, his astounding talent seizes our attention like nothing short of a prophet. Pardon the pun, but he just nails it." - David Wilcox, The Citizen
"Benson is a dove of peace, the antithesis of toxic masculinity, and when this gentle surety begins to fracture, it’s all the more crushing to witness. Benson’s embodiment of suffering will make you go fetal with empathy. Witnessing his physical performance is like watching a theatrical marathon—I flinched with each lash and blow." - Linda Lowen, Syracuse.com
"[Ethan] Benson has an arresting presence and a powerful, melodious voice. His last scenes, from Gethsemane to the crucifixion itself, are permeated with pain." - Barbara Adams, The Ithaca Voice