Songstress Heather Headley Replacing Jennifer Hudson as Shug Avery in ‘The Color Purple‘
Making her first appearance on Broadway since winning the 2000 Tony Award for ‘Best Performance By A Leading Actress’ in the hit musical, Aida, Heather Headley is returning to the stage yet again.
The 41-year-old Grammy award-winning singer will be joining John Doyle’s Broadway production of The Color Purple, portraying the role of the infamous Shug Avery, on May 10th.
Heather Headley will be working alongside Orange Is The New Black actress, Danielle Brooks, and British singer/actress Cynthia Erivo.
“I was privileged to see John Doyle’s production of The Color Purple and was completely moved and bowled over by his beautiful work and this brilliant company,” Headley gushed. “I am humbled to be joining this immensely talented group of actors. I can’t think of a better way to return to the Broadway stage than in this extraordinary show, helping to tell Alice Walker’s story.”
The singer made her debut role in Elton John and Tim Rice’s 1997 Broadway musical, The Lion King, as Nala. Shortly after, John and Rice enlisted Headley to star as a Nubian princess in their production, Aida.
We can’t wait to see what she will bring this go around.
Although it is a joyous occasion for Heather Headley and many fans across the world, singer Jennifer Hudson is having to say her farewells.
After a six-month run, portraying the role of Shug Avery, Jennifer Hudson’s time in the production will be coming to a close—giving her final performance on May 8th.
“These last six months have been nothing short of a dream come true. I have found an extended family in the cast of The Color Purple that will go far beyond my commitment on-stage. I owe so much to the Broadway community and our audiences. My heart is full as I say to Broadway, ‘Until we meet again.’ Hudson says of her departure with much delight.
The Color Purple Broadway musical takes place at Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre in New York, NY. Heather Headley’s first performance will be May 10th.
For more information, visit: www.thecolorpurple.com
Photo Courtesy – Russ Harrington
