Oklahoma Talent Shines on the New York Stage

The theater world can often seem like an elusive dream for aspiring performers, but for Hunter Semrau, a graduate of Oklahoma City University, that dream has become a reality. This talented artist originally hailing from Medicine Hat, Canada, crossed borders to pursue his passion, eventually landing on the Off-Off-Broadway stage in a remarkable new production that combines his love for musical theater and the fantastical realm of Dungeons & Dragons.

Hunter Semrau's journey to the bright lights of New York City began at Oklahoma City University, where he studied music theater. After years of dedicating himself to his craft, in the process garnering him international recognition from Classical Singer Magazine and winning the Canadian Silver Medal in Musical Theater, he earned his Bachelor of Music in Music Theater. Semrau's dedication, combined with his undeniable talent, quickly caught the attention of industry professionals, and since his graduation in 2022, he has been unstoppable.

The post-graduation chapter of Semrau's life reads like a whirlwind of success stories. He has already embarked on two Broadway national tours, graced the stage of multiple regional theater productions, acted in an upcoming major motion picture, and originated a brand-new lead role in a New York premiere.

"Goblins and Gates," a captivating new rock musical inspired by the popular tabletop role-playing-game Dungeons & Dragons, has provided Semrau with an opportunity to blend his passion for rock music, musical theater, and his love for fantasy. It's a combination that he describes as "shockingly perfect.”

"I'm a big D&D nerd," Semrau admits. "I got my start playing at Oklahoma City University with my best friends in the musical theater program, and my passion for the game really took off from there. It’s so cool to be part of roleplaying game like D&D with a group of actors because it’s like one big improv game. I’ve laughed harder than ever before in games, and at times have been hit by real tears during the more serious moments. It’s something that has really influenced my perspective on acting and characterization, so to combine a game and fandom that I am so passionate about with rock style musical theatre, my ideal style of performance, it just seemed too good to be true, like I was made to be in this show.”

Semrau's enthusiasm for the project didn't end with his casting. He found himself in the unique position of being a part of an original work, a creative journey that encouraged him to infuse the character with his unique artistic perspective and truly make the role his own.

"Originating a new role, especially on a New York stage, has always been a dream of mine. As theater artists we are often used to following in the footsteps of others, having to put original spins on characters that have been performed thousands of times. So, to do something completely new, no reference, nothing preconceived, it was such an enlightening experience,” he explains. “You get to be the one ad-libbing a line, trying a new riff or vocal option, and it gave me the opportunity to really bring myself as a person to my character, DJ, and work with some really incredible creative minds on fleshing him out, and making him take shape.”

Semrau's dedication to the craft and willingness to take risks have undoubtedly contributed to his rapid success. He encourages aspiring performers to bring their authentic selves to the audition room. “I remember during the audition I showed up in a dragon t-shirt and sang a song from an anime musical,” he laughingly confesses. “I think it helped show the creative team that I’m genuinely really into this sort of stuff, and I remember bonding over roleplaying games, D&D podcasts, and anime in the audition room after I sang. It was a big weight off my shoulders not acting as a character but showing them what I personally bring to the table.”

Hunter Semrau's journey from a small Canadian town to the heart of Oklahoma, and onward to the bustling streets of New York City, serves as an inspiring testament to the boundless possibilities that await those who dare to dream. With the spirit of fantasy, dedication to his craft, and a love for the arts, Semrau continues to remind us that the world's stage is wide open for those who believe in the power of their dreams. We eagerly anticipate the next chapter in Hunter Semrau's extraordinary career, and there's no doubt that he'll continue to enchant audiences with his remarkable talents.