Exclusive: Lea Michele Spills on Her Dream Disney Princess Role

She’s done Broadway, Glee and recorded two albums (with a third on the way). Still, for Lea Michele, it was a recent dream come true to step into the shoes (fins?) of Ariel from The Little Mermaid for a two-day-only live performance of the Disney classic at the Hollywood Bowl on May 17 and 18 in honor of the 30th anniversary of the film. 

PureWow chatted with Michele exclusively while she was in New York City to promote her recent partnership with TJ Maxx and their Maxx You Project called “The Changing Room,” an experience designed to help support women navigating change in their lives.

So, we had to ask: Is Ariel her dream Disney princess role or what?

“I’ve always loved Ariel, but I also love Belle from Beauty and the Beast,” she says. “That said, I didn’t know how much I loved The Little Mermaid until I did the show. Of all the Disney princesses, Ariel has the most iconic song. Belle has iconic songs, too, but ‘Part of Your World’ gave me chills.”

Michele also loved the opportunity to include so many friends with Disney-loving kids at the show. “All my girlfriends brought their kids and it was so amazing to perform at a place like the Hollywood Bowl. It fits 16,000 people! Walking out on stage there was an incredible feeling.”

Disney, can you hear us? A quick request to extend Michele’s Little Mermaid performance—or at least make a recording of it? Asking for a friend.