Where did Joy Woods go to college?
Joy Woods is an American actress and singer who has quickly become one of the most exciting new voices on Broadway. Born in 1999 and raised in Chicago, Woods has captivated audiences with her powerful vocals, emotional performances, and groundbreaking roles. She made history in 2025 when she became the first Black actress to play Louise in the Broadway revival of Gypsy, a performance that earned her a Tony Award nomination.
Beyond Gypsy, Joy has also left her mark in shows like The Notebook, Six: The Musical, and Little Shop of Horrors. With each performance, she continues to push boundaries, break barriers, and inspire the next generation of theater lovers.
| Name | Joy Woods |
| Date of Birth | 1999 |
| Age (2025) | 26 Years |
| Place of Birth | Chicago, Illinois, USA |
| Known For | Broadway Actress & Singer |
| Height | 5 ft 6 in (Approx.) |
| Notable Roles | Gypsy, The Notebook, Six, Little Shop of Horrors |
Early Life
Joy Woods grew up in Chicago, where she developed a love for theater and music from a young age. During high school, she performed in local productions and showcased her strong stage presence. Her passion for the arts eventually led her to pursue formal training, where she refined her vocal skills and acting abilities.
Her natural talent and dedication quickly set her apart, preparing her for a future in Broadway productions.
Where did Joy Woods go to college?
Joy Woods attended The American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA) in New York City. She enrolled after graduating from Homewood-Flossmoor High School in 2018 and completed her training in musical theater in 2019. Her time at AMDA gave her the professional foundation and stage experience that helped launch her Broadway career, including roles in Six, The Notebook, Little Shop of Horrors, and Gypsy.
Career Highlights
1. Gypsy (2025 Broadway Revival)
- Joy made history as the first Black actress to play Louise in Gypsy.
- Her portrayal earned her a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actress in a Musical.
- She also received a Drama League Award nomination for Distinguished Performance.
2. The Notebook (Broadway & Chicago)
- Joy originated the role of Middle Allie in The Notebook musical.
- Her performance of the song “My Days” went viral online, winning the hearts of theater fans worldwide.
- She earned a Joseph Jefferson Award for her role in the Chicago Shakespeare Theater production.
3. Six: The Musical
- Woods made her Broadway debut as Catherine Parr in Six: The Musical.
- The show was a breakout success, showcasing her vocal range and commanding stage presence.
4. Little Shop of Horrors (Off-Broadway)
- Joy joined the Off-Broadway revival of Little Shop of Horrors, first playing Chiffon.
- Later, she stepped into the lead role of Audrey, becoming the first Black actress to portray Audrey in this iconic production.
Awards & Recognition
- Tony Award Nominee (2025): Best Featured Actress in a Musical (Gypsy)
- Drama League Award Nominee (2025): Distinguished Performance (Gypsy)
- Joseph Jefferson Award (2023): Performer in a Supporting Role – Musical (The Notebook)
Personal Life
While Joy Woods keeps much of her personal life private, she has become a role model for young performers—especially women of color pursuing careers in theater. She often shares her Broadway journey with fans through interviews, performances, and social media.
Social Media Links
- Instagram: @joynwoods
- Twitter (X): @joywoods
- TikTok: @joynwoods
Joy Woods is more than just a rising star—she’s a trailblazer in American theater. From making history in Gypsy to moving audiences in The Notebook, she has proven her talent, versatility, and ability to break barriers on Broadway. At just 26 years old, Joy Woods’ career is only beginning, and she is well on her way to becoming one of the most influential performers of her generation
FAQs
- How old is Joy Woods?
Joy Woods was born in 1999, making her 26 years old in 2025. - What role did Joy Woods play in The Notebook?
She originated the role of Middle Allie in the Broadway musical The Notebook, where her performance of “My Days” gained viral attention. - Is Joy Teriyaki Wood Village related to Joy Woods?
No, this is unrelated to the actress. It refers to a restaurant in Oregon, not Joy Woods the Broadway star. - What role does Joy Woods play in Gypsy?
In 2025, Joy Woods became the first Black actress to play Louise in Gypsy, earning a Tony Award nomination. - What is “My Days” by Joy Woods?
Joy Woods’ performance of “My Days” in The Notebook went viral, showcasing her powerful emotional delivery. - What musicals has Joy Woods been in?
Joy Woods has appeared in Six, The Notebook, Gypsy, and the Off-Broadway revival of Little Shop of Horrors, along with regional productions. - Why did Joy Woods leave The Notebook?
She left to star in the Broadway revival of Gypsy. Her final performance in The Notebook was on October 20, 2024. - Did Joy Woods go to college?
Yes, she graduated from the American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA) in New York City in 2019. - Who did Joy Woods play in Six?
She made her Broadway debut as Catherine Parr, the sixth wife of Henry VIII. - Did Joy Woods get nominated for a Tony?
Yes, she was nominated for Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Musical for her role in Gypsy. - Who plays Allie in The Notebook Broadway?
Three actresses portray Allie at different ages. Joy Woods originated the role of Middle Allie. - Who does Joy Woods play in The Notebook?
She played Middle Allie, a central role in the musical. - Is Joy Woods still in Gypsy?
Yes, she currently stars as Louise in the 2024 Broadway revival of Gypsy. - Does Joy Woods have a husband?
There is no public information available about her marital status or husband. - What songs has Joy Woods performed?
She is best known for singing “My Days” in The Notebook, which went viral. - What is Joy Woods’ ethnicity?
She is African American and has made history as the first Black actress to play Louise in Gypsy and Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors. - Who are Joy Woods’ parents?
She has not publicly shared details about her parents.
