Leslie Odom, Jr. on Performing With the BPO

WNY Soundstage

Leslie Odom, Jr. on Performing With the BPO

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On this episode of WNY Soundstage, Host Daniel Lendzian speaks with Leslie Odom, Jr. 

Leslie Odom, Jr. is a Tony and Grammy Award-winning, Emmy- and Oscar-nominated actor, songwriter, and New York Times bestselling author, best known for originating Aaron Burr in Hamilton. He returned to the role in September 2025 to record-breaking box office success, and also earned acclaim and a Tony nomination for producing and starring in Purlie Victorious. His film and TV work includes portraying Sam Cooke in One Night in Miami…, roles in Glass Onion and The Many Saints of Newark, plus bestselling books and multiple albums, including his 2025 live release An Offering.

Leslie Odom, Jr. is performing with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra (BPO) on May 2, 2026, at 7:30 pm. Tickets are available here.

This episode includes: 

• His return to Buffalo Stages 
• The evolution of the program with the BPO
• The songs he is looking forward to performing the most 
• Singing iconic songs with the BPO 
• How performing live in concert differs artistically from theater, film, and recorded  music
• The connection with the audience members
• Advice for aspiring performers
• The importance of live performance 
• What he hopes audiences feel as they leave Kleinhans music hall