Broadway's iconic musical, Cabaret, is set to undergo some exciting cast changes this spring, bringing fresh energy to the Kit Kat Club stage. With the announcement of Orville Peck and Ellen Harvey stepping in for principal roles, theater fans are buzzing with anticipation.
Starting March 31, 2024, Orville Peck will take over the role of the Emcee, following Adam Lambert's departure. Peck, known for his distinctive style and vocal prowess, has expressed his excitement about this opportunity. Incorporizing both his theatrical background and unique performance flair, he remarked, "I used to do theater growing up and was a dancer professionally, so it’s a role I always wanted to play," according to Paper. This isn't just celebrity casting; Peck auditioned several times before landing the coveted role.
Peck’s entry promises to add new depth to the character, known for its charisma and complexity. With his first performance just weeks away, he faces the question on everyone’s lips: will Peck perform maskless? While the signature mask has defined his persona, recent makeup tests hint at the possibility of showcasing his full face, complete with the character's iconic smear of red lipstick.
Accompanying Peck on stage is Ellen Harvey, who steps in as Fraulein Schneider, following Bebe Neuwirth's farewell on March 29. Harvey is no stranger to Broadway, having starred alongside Kevin Kline in the revival of Noël Coward’s Present Laughter and played Miss Jones in the production of How To Succeed in Business Without Really Trying alongside Daniel Radcliffe.
These fresh additions coincide with Auliʻi Cravalho’s exit from her role as Sally Bowles, keeping the show's dynamic energy alive. Peck and Harvey will join the core cast, which features talented actors like Calvin Leon Smith as Clifford Bradshaw and Steven Skybell as Herr Schultz. Also continuing their roles are Henry Gottfried as Ernst Ludwig and Michelle Aravena as Fritzie/Kost, ensuring fans can expect familiar faces alongside the new talent.
The revival of Cabaret has earned widespread acclaim this Broadway season, garnering nine Tony Award nominations, including Best Revival of a Musical. This recognition not only highlights the show's enduring legacy but also raises expectations for the incoming cast members. With such strong momentum, the shift allows for both seasoned and new performers to make their mark on this beloved production.
For theatergoers eager to witness these changes, tickets are available through the official Broadway Cabaret website, where fans can also find additional information on performances and casting updates. The buzz surrounding Peck’s and Harvey’s debut performances indicates they are set to make significant contributions to the show's illustrious history.
With such compelling talent joining the ranks, the upcoming months promise to deliver not just entertainment but also touch on themes of identity and resilience, as Cabaret continues to resonate with audiences today. This musical remains not only a reflection of its time but evolves with every new cast, pushing boundaries and inviting viewers to engage with its rich narrative.