On Thursday, the Savage hitmaker – real name Megan Pete – announced that she will play Harold Zidler in the production at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre in New York City for eight weeks beginning on 24 March.
Megan is the first female-identifying performer to portray Zidler, the role originated by Danny Burstein, in any Moulin Rouge! The Musical production worldwide.
“Stepping onto the Broadway stage and joining the Moulin Rouge! The Musical team is an absolute honour,” the 31-year-old exclaimed. “I’ve always believed in pushing myself creatively and theatre is definitely a new opportunity that I’m excited to embrace. Broadway demands a different level of discipline, preparation and storytelling, but I’m up for the challenge and can’t wait for the Hotties (her fans) to see a new side of me.”
RuPaul’s Drag Race winner Bob the Drag Queen is currently performing the part.
Previously, the likes of Tituss Burgess, Boy George, and Wayne Brady have played Zidler onstage, while Jim Broadbent portrayed him in the 2001 movie.
And producer Carmen Pavlovic is excited to welcome Megan into the Moulin Rouge! The Musical fold.
“Megan is a true global superstar. She is one of the most influential artists of her generation and her impact on music and culture is undeniable,” she praised. “This historic casting is a major part of our closing celebrations: our farewell gift to Broadway audiences and one of our biggest announcements in the history of Moulin Rouge! The Musical. We want our show to go out with a spectacular bang, and Megan is the force of nature to lead us there. And yes, there will be a hint of music from her own iconic catalogue. It’s an unmissable moment for both Megan’s fans and ours.”
Moulin Rouge! The Musical will close on 26 July after seven years on Broadway.
