It’s Official: Kelli Is Nellie
As I predicted two weeks ago, the Lincoln Center Theater revival of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s South Pacific will welcome “The Light in the Piazza”‘s Kelli O’Hara (pictured here) back to the stage of the Vivian Beaumont Theater. O’Hara will portray Nellie Forbush, the role created by the late Mary Martin.
Co-starring as French plantation owner Emile de Becque will be renowned baritone Paulo Szot. Szot has previously appeared in the New York City Opera productions of “Carmen” and “Le Nozze di Figaro.” He made his operatic debut as Figaro in “Il Barbiere di Siviglia” in his native Sao Paulo, Brazil, before going on to sing lead roles with major opera companies.
Two-time Tony nominee O’Hara will be reunited with “Light in the Piazza” director Bartlett Sher, who will helm the Lincoln Center revival, the first on Broadway since the musical’s debut in 1949.
Performances begin on the Vivian Beaumont Stage March 1, 2008, with an official opening set for April 3. You can keep up with “South Pacific” news and ticket information right here.
