From Arlington to Broadway

For many performers, Broadway is the dream. For Ben Ashcraft, it became reality faster than he expected

Tuesday, Aug 11, 2026 • Jayce K. Smith : Contact

Ben Ashcraft playing the role of Gabey in On the Town, holding a rose.

Ashcraft earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre with a concentration in Musical Theatre and a minor in Dance. During his time at UTA, he built a reputation as a versatile performer, appearing as Gabey in On the Town, Dolokov in Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812, and Josh in 9 to 5. Those experiences helped prepare him for the realities of professional theatre.

Close up of Ben Ashcraft playing Alan Munso in Stranger Things: First Shadow on Broadway, wearing a cross body bag."I never expected to be so comfortable and prepared when stepping into a Broadway rehearsal room," Ashcraft said. He credits UTA faculty and mentors for teaching him how to navigate auditions, rehearsals, and the demands of a professional performing career. When he received the offer, his first call was to his mother.

"I called my mom," he said. "She was always the first person to push me and help me grow in this art form. I owe a lot of who I am today as a performer to her."

Today, Ashcraft joins a growing list of Theatre Arts and Dance alumni finding success on stages across the country and around the world. His Broadway debut serves as a reminder that talent, preparation, and persistence can open doors in unexpected ways.

I never expected to be so comfortable and prepared when stepping into a Broadway rehearsal room.

— Ben Ashcraft

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