Cole Thompson

Cole Thompson ’17 made a dazzling Broadway debut in 2022 as Jack in the critically acclaimed revival of Stephen Sondheim’s Into the Woods, following a standout Encores! run at New York City Center. A musical household upbringing and early exposure to theatre led him to Cranbrook’s vibrant arts community, where he starred in multiple productions—Little Shop of Horrors, The Music Man, Zombie Prom, The Crucible—and found his voice on stage with the support of teachers like Jim Gabriel and Daniel Dobrovich. After earning a BFA from the University of Michigan in 2021, his senior showcase led directly to representation and early professional gigs in regional theater and off-Broadway. Following his Broadway breakthrough, Cole toured with the Into the Woods company in 2023 and performed in the well-received off-Broadway musical White Rose in early 2024. In 2025, he’s broadened his artistic portfolio with cabaret performances at 54 Below and a featured role in Austen’s Pride at Stages St. Louis ahead of its national tour. Thompson continues channeling his authenticity and lifelong passion for musical theatre—and urges emerging performers to trust their unique journey.

Read more in his Tradition profile by clicking here.