Elisabeth Withers-Mendes

Elisabeth Withers-Mendes is a multi-talented performer with credits in Broadway, film, television, and music. Born and raised in Joliet, Illinois, Withers-Mendes began singing at a young age in her local church choir. She went on to attend the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City, where she honed her skills as a performer.

Withers-Mendes made her Broadway debut in the 2005 production of The Color Purple, based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Alice Walker. She played the role of Shug Avery, a blues singer who becomes a mentor and friend to the protagonist, Celie. Withers-Mendes received critical acclaim for her performance, with The New York Times describing her as "a knockout" and Entertainment Weekly calling her "a revelation."
In addition to her work on Broadway, Withers-Mendes has also appeared in several films and television shows. She had a recurring role on the hit series The Wire, playing the character of Tosha Mitchell. She also appeared in the film Across the Universe, a musical set against the backdrop of the 1960s featuring songs by The Beatles. Withers-Mendes sang "Come Together" in the film, showcasing her powerful vocals.
Withers-Mendes has also had success as a recording artist. Her debut album, It Can Happen to Anyone, was released in 2007 and featured collaborations with some of the biggest names in music, including will.i.am and John Legend. The album received critical acclaim and earned Withers-Mendes a Grammy nomination for Best Urban/Alternative Performance for the single "Be With You."
In recent years, Withers-Mendes has continued to perform and record music. She released a single, "Simple Things," in 2018 and has been working on new material. She also appeared in the 2019 Off-Broadway production of A Musical About Star Wars, playing the role of Princess Leia.