Erika Henningsen is an American actress and Broadway performer who gained major recognition for playing Cady Heron in the Broadway adaptation of Mean Girls. Before taking on the iconic role, she built her stage résumé through productions including Les Misérables, Diner, Show Boat, and Dear World. Her talent earned her the Alan Eisenberg Actors’ Equity Association Award, helping support the early development of her professional career.
Early Start in Theater
Henningsen began performing on stage at a remarkably young age. When she was just 14, she appeared in a regional production of Grey Gardens.
That early opportunity gave her valuable theatrical experience and helped set the direction for her future career. She later continued her education at the University of Michigan.
Broadway Breakthrough
Henningsen’s profile grew significantly when she was cast as Cady Heron in the Broadway version of Mean Girls.
The role placed her at the center of a stage adaptation based on the popular film and introduced her performance to a much wider theater audience.
Other Stage Performances
Before and alongside her work in Mean Girls, Henningsen appeared in several notable theatrical productions.
Her credits include Les Misérables, Diner, Show Boat, and Dear World. These productions allowed her to take on different characters and demonstrate her versatility as a stage performer.
Career Recognition
Henningsen received the Alan Eisenberg Actors’ Equity Association Award during her early career.
The honor came with a $5,000 prize intended to help her establish herself professionally. The recognition represented an important boost as she continued developing her career in theater.
Family Background
Henningsen has two older sisters.
Her family has remained part of her personal background while her professional life has largely centered on acting and musical theater.
Marriage to Kyle Selig
Henningsen’s personal life has also included a relationship with fellow performer Kyle Selig. The two became engaged in mid-2021.
Their relationship later led to marriage, with the couple officially getting married on May 22, 2023.
Connection to Angela Lansbury
Henningsen shares a theatrical connection with legendary actress Angela Lansbury. Both actresses played the character Eglantine Price in productions of Bedknobs and Broomsticks.
The connection links Henningsen’s stage career with one of the most celebrated performers in theater and entertainment history.
Final Thoughts
Erika Henningsen developed her career through years of stage experience, beginning with a regional production of *Grey Gardens at just 14. After studying at the University of Michigan and appearing in productions such as Les Misérables and Show Boat, she reached a major milestone as Cady Heron in Broadway’s Mean Girls. Her career recognition, including the Alan Eisenberg Actors’ Equity Association Award, further highlights her achievements as a theater performer.