Grace McLean was born on November 1, 1984 in Costa Mesa, California. From a young age, she was surrounded by music as her parents were both musicians. They encouraged her passion for singing and acting, which ultimately led her to pursue a career in the performing arts.
After high school, McLean attended New York University where she earned her BFA in acting. During her time in college, she honed her skills in musical theater and began to make a name for herself in the New York City theater scene. She also became a founding member of the folk group Grace McLean & Them Apples, showcasing her talents as a singer and songwriter.
McLean's big break came when she originated the role of Marya D in the hit Broadway musical Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812. Her performance earned her critical acclaim and solidified her as a rising star in the theater world. She continued to impress audiences with her roles in Off-Broadway productions such as Brooklynite, Bedbugs!!!, and Sleep No More.
McLean's talent did not go unnoticed, as she was awarded the Lincoln Center Emerging Artist Award and the Hunt Family Award in 2017. Her unique blend of acting and musical abilities set her apart from her peers and established her as a force to be reckoned with in the industry.
Outside of her thriving career, McLean remains close to her roots as a musician. She continues to perform with Grace McLean & Them Apples, showcasing her versatility as a performer. In 2015, the group toured Pakistan with the US State Department, further solidifying their status as a rising musical act.
McLean's impact on the theater world continues to be felt, as she headlined the SingStrong festivals in Chicago and Washington, D.C. in 2014 alongside other notable artists like Blake Lewis. Her dedication to her craft and her ability to seamlessly blend acting and music have cemented her as a true talent to watch in the entertainment industry.
Despite her success, McLean remains humble and grateful for the opportunities she has been given. She credits her parents for instilling in her a love of music and acting, which has ultimately shaped her career and her life.
As she continues to push boundaries and challenge herself creatively, Grace McLean's star continues to rise, solidifying her as one of the most promising talents in the world of theater and music.