The Asolo Repertory Theatre in Sarasota, Florida announced March 6th that they would be mounting the world premiere of Josephine, an original Broadway-bound musical about the life of American-born French dancer, singer, and actress Josephine Baker.
In the title role is none other than Deborah Cox, whose Broadway credits include the title role in Aida in 2004, and the female lead ‘Lucy Harris’ in the 2013 revival of Jekyll & Hyde (opposite Constantine Maroulis).
Romance, intrigue and plenty of excitement will fill the stage next spring when Asolo Rep presents the world-premiere of Josephine, the original new musical bound for Broadway following its Sarasota run. The entrancing Josephine Baker was beautiful, ambitious, and the toast of Europe at the height of her fame in the 1920s-30s. Born into poverty in St. Louis, she rose to become an icon of the Jazz Age, captivating Paris audiences as a dancer, singer, actress and the twentieth-century’s first international black female sex symbol. Directed and choreographed by Tony nominated Joey McKneely and starring Grammy-nominated, platinum-selling recording artist Deborah Cox, this dazzling new musical revolves around Baker’s stint as the star of the Folies-Bergere in Paris from 1939-45, her scandalous affair with Swedish Crown Prince Gustav IV, and her service in the French Resistance during World War II.
The Asolo Repertory Theatre production of Josephine debuts April 27, 2016, with an official opening on Mary 6th and will run through May 29th, 2016.
“Josephine vividly brings to life the story of a beloved American icon — one of the most magnetic and fascinating women in history. This celebration of Josephine Baker is a remarkably evocative work of art and a brilliant addition to our five-year American Character Project,” notes Producing Artistic Director of Asolo Repertory Theatre Michael Donald Edwards.
Visit www.AsoloRep.com for more information!
