Kristin Chenoweth

(1968 - Present)

Profession: Singer, Actress

Hometown: Broken Arrow

Inducted: 2010

Broken Arrow native Kristin Chenoweth began her career with a kindergarten performance as a rabbit. She continued acting and singing in a fourth-grade presentation of Oklahoma! and as various characters in Broken Arrow High School theater productions. At the age of 12, she performed the song "I'm Four Foot Eleven and I'm Going to Heaven" as a soloist during the Southern Baptist National Convention.

Chenoweth continued her education and training at Oklahoma City University (OCU) where she earned a degree in Musical Theater and a MA in Opera Performance. With a degree in hand and her theatrical skills honed, Chenoweth moved to New York and began her Broadway career. OCU Voice Professor Florence Birdwell later stated, "Kristin has become one of the most recognizable voices in America, yet she remains Oklahoman in heart and spirit." 

Industry recognition for Chenoweth's work came in 1999 with a Tony for her performance as "Sally" in You're a Good Man Charlie Brown, followed by a Best Actress Tony nomination in 2004 for her role as "Glinda" in Wicked. Her Broadway success transitioned into a broader career that includes film, television, music, and a one-woman tour.

Chenoweth supports multiple charities dedicated to the arts, women's health, child adoption, and animal welfare. She even founded Maddie's Corner, a charitable organization bringing attention and support to animals in need and groups working on their behalf, as well as highlighting the ways animals help people and enrich their lives.