Josh Groban's High School Performance in Fiddler on the Roof Was One Sweet Surprise at the 2016 Tony Awards

"You Raise Me Up" singer may have been a bit embarrassed as the throwback clip played

By Mike Vulpo Jun 13, 2016 1:54 AMTags

And here Josh Groban thought he was just going to be a presenter.

Before introducing a musical performance at the 2016 Tony Awards Sunday night, the talented singer received a special surprise from the evening's host.

"One of the most spectacular revivals this year was of the musical comedy Fiddler on the Roof filled with emotion and humor," James Corden shared on stage at The Beacon Theatre. "I know what you're thinking. What does Josh Groban got to do with Fiddler on the Roof? Well I can tell you he starred in it in high school."

But wait, there's more!

"Now what Josh doesn't know is that I've found a video of his performance and he'll be thrilled to know we're about to play it on national television," he continued.

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What came next was a short clip of Josh in full costume reciting lines from the long-running production. As the camera panned backstage, Josh couldn't help but blush as he watched the throwback clip.

"Oh that just happened on the Tony's. Yes, that was me," he joked when making it to the stage. "I was 17. I was at the Los Angeles County of the Arts. Thanks very much arts education."

In all seriousness, the Broadway bound star (who will star in Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812 beginning early October) expressed his love for the musical that remains timeless after all these years.

"The message of this classic tale remains the same as when it first moved audiences," he shared. "The show has always been a beacon of life, love and tolerance."

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