Locals may recognize one of the new faces on “Glee” this season: Darren Criss, a 2009 University of Michigan theater department grad who starred in, and co-wrote the music and lyrics for, the Basement Arts hit “A Very Potter Musical” (as well as “A Very Potter Sequel”), which blew up to be a viral hit online.

Criss, a San Francisco native, previously appeared on five episodes of the short-lived ABC series “Eastwick,” as well as one episode of "Cold Case."

On “Glee,” the young actor (and songwriter) will play Blaine, a gay character from a rival glee club, the Dalton Academy Warblers, who may or may not become romantically involved with Kurt (Chris Colfer). The character is expected to be introduced in the Nov. 9 episode.

See Criss’ “Glee” audition video below.

And here's Criss performing the opening number from "A Very Potter Musical."

Jenn McKee is the entertainment digital journalist for AnnArbor.com. Reach her at jennmckee@annarbor.com or 734-623-2546, and follow her on Twitter @jennmckee.