Here’s a great story: At the Billboard/Hollywood Reporter Film & TV Music Conference tonight, Glee star Darren Criss surprised and performed for Alan Menken – who wrote songs for The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, and Aladdin.
Menken was surprised by Criss’ appearance because he had once (generously) tipped Criss outside of a coffee shop. See photos below, and look below the pics for details from the event.
UPDATE: See video of Criss’ performance right here!
[nggallery id=206]
Billboard reports:
These days that “kid” is better known as Darren Criss from “Glee” — and at the Billboard / Hollywood Reporter Film & TV Music Conference, he made a surprise appearance before participants, with his acoustic guitar in hand, and serenaded Menken once again.
“Just look at your songs / aren’t they neat? Wouldn’t you think your collection’s complete?” Criss sang, reworking the lyrics to Menken’s “Part of Your World” from “The Little Mermaid.” “Wouldn’t you think you’re the guy, the guy who has everything?”
Article Continues BelowThe medley concluded with an appearance from the voice of Jasmine herself, Lea Salonga.
“I used to play for pennies at a cafe at the University of Michigan,” Criss explained from stage. “I was just ruining ‘Part of Your World’ when Alan comes in. I was just mortified!”
“He was playing all of these songs really, really beautifully,” Menken countered, still recovering from his genuine surprise. “I was really impressed with his talent. Next thing I know, Darren’s on ‘Glee’! He’s just doing incredible work.”
Later in Billboard’s report we hear tips from Menken for composers in the movie industry.
We want to hear your thoughts on this topic!
Write a comment below or submit an article to Hypable.