LaChanze
Also Credited As: R. Lachanze Sapp, LaChanze
Latest News on LaChanze :
Nyla Watson Brings AN ODE TO AUDRA to 54 Below (Jul 24, 2024)
Carolee Carmello Will Lead National Tour of KIMBERLY AKIMBO (Jul 17, 2024)
Video: Joshua Boone Records 'Little Brother' from THE OUTSIDERS (Jul 14, 2024)
Nyla Watson Brings AN ODE TO AUDRA to 54 Below (Jul 24, 2024)
Carolee Carmello Will Lead National Tour of KIMBERLY AKIMBO (Jul 17, 2024)
Video: Joshua Boone Records 'Little Brother' from THE OUTSIDERS (Jul 14, 2024)
LaChanze BIO
LaChanze's first summer job was as a tap dancer in the ensemble of Uptown... It's Hot! at the Tropicana Hotel in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The show opened on Broadway in January 1986, where LaChanze began her professional career in the theater.
LaChanze played the role of "Ti Moune" in the Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty musical Once on This Island in 1990 and received nominations for the Tony Award as Best Featured Actress in a Musical and Drama Desk Award as Outstanding Actress in a Musical. She was a replacement "Sarah" in the Ahrens and Flaherty and Terrence McNally Broadway musical Ragtime, starting in December 1998. She played the role of "Viveca" in the Playwrights Horizons Off-Broadway production of the musical The Bubbly Black Girl Sheds Her Chameleon Skin, which opened in June 2000. She received a Drama Desk nomination, Actress (Musical), for her performance. LaChanze participated in an Actors Fund of America benefit concert of Funny Girl, with many performers portraying the character of "Fanny Brice", in September 2002.
In 2005 she played a runaway slave in the Ahrens and Flaherty musical Dessa Rose. The musical opened Off-Broadway at the Mitzi Newhouse Theatre at Lincoln Center in March 2005. LaChanze received an Obie Award for Performance for Dessa Rose. LaChanze appeared as "Celie" in the Broadway musical The Color Purple, from its opening in 2005 to November 2006. She won the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical for this performance.
In September 2008 she participated in the Boston Pops concert, Handel's Messiah Rocks at Emerson College. The performance was filmed by Public Broadcasting Service. She was in the Off-Broadway production of Inked Baby, written by Christina Anderson, which opened in March 2009 at Playwrights Horizons Peter Jay Sharp Theater. In June and July 2009, she played the role of "Glinda" in the City Center Encores! staged Summer Stars concert production of The Wiz.
She published her first picture book, Little Diva, in 2010. She was in the Broadway production of If/Then in 2014, starring as Kate. In 2018, she was in Summer: The Donna Summer Musical on Broadway, playing Diva Donna/Mary Gaines. She is currently in A Christmas Carol on Broadway, starring as the Ghost of Christmas Present.
LaChanze Photos
LaChanze STAGE CREDITS
[Broadway]
Original Broadway Production, 2019
Ghost of Christmas Present/Mrs. Fezziwig
[Off-Broadway]
Atlantic Theatre Company Off-Broadway World Premiere, 2019
August
[Broadway]
Original Broadway Production, 2018
Donna Summer
Mary Gaines
[San Diego, CA (Regional)]
World Premiere at La Jolla Playhouse, 2017
Diva Donna
[Off-Broadway]
Original Off-Broadway Production, 2000
Viveca
[Off-Broadway]
Original Off-Broadway Production, 1999
Performer [Replacement]
Performer [Replacement]
LaChanze Productions
LaChanze TV Shows
Law & Order: Special Victims Unit
President Rosa Freeman, Amber, Ms. Pivik
President Rosa Freeman, Amber, Ms. Pivik
The Cosby Show
Sylvia
Sylvia
The Good Fight
Julius's Wife
Julius's Wife
LaChanze Awards and Nominations
Drama League Awards - 2022 - Distinguished Performance Awards
LaChanze, Trouble in Mind
Outer Critics Circle Awards - 2022 - Outstanding Actress in a Play
LaChanze, Trouble in Mind
Tony Awards - 2022 - Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Play
LaChanze, Trouble in Mind
Drama Desk Awards - 2020 - Outstanding Featured Actress in a Musical
LaChanze, The Secret Life of Bees
winner
Outer Critics Circle Awards - 2020 - Outstanding Featured Actress in a Musical
LaChanze, The Secret Life of Bees
Drama Desk Awards - 2018 - Outstanding Actress in a Musical
LaChanze, Summer
Drama League Awards - 2018 - Distinguished Performance Award
LaChanze, Summer: The Donna Summer Musical
Tony Awards - 2018 - Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical
LaChanze, Summer: The Donna Summer Musical
winner
BroadwayWorld Awards - 2014 - Best Featured Actress in a Musical
LaChanze, If/Then
Outer Critics Circle Awards - 2006 - Outstanding Actress in a Musical
La Chanze, The Color Purple
winner
Tony Awards - 2006 - Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical
LaChanze, The Color Purple
winner
Obie Awards - 2005 - Performance
LaChanze, Dessa Rose
winner
Drama Desk Awards - 2000 - Outstanding Actress - Musical
La Chanze, The Bubbly Black Girl Sheds Her Chameleon Skin
winner
Theatre World Awards - 1991 - Performance
LaChanze, Once on This Island
Tony Awards - 1991 - Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical
LaChanze , Once on this Island
LaChanze Videos
Exclusive: Aisha Jackson is Getting Ready to Spotlight Black Excellence on Broadway
by Nicole Rosky - Feb 21, 2024
Video: Watch LaChanze Discuss Becoming a Broadway Producer on CBS SUNDAY MORNING
by Blair Ingenthron - Feb 18, 2024
Video: Stars Come Out to Celebrate Opening Night of PRAYER FOR THE FRENCH REPUBLIC
by Nicole Rosky - Jan 17, 2024
Video: Watch Denée Benton, Alan Cumming & More In GENIE Holiday Film Trailer Starring Melissa McCarthy
by Michael Major - Nov 1, 2023
VIDEO: KIMBERLY AKIMBO's Steven Boyer and Alli Mauzey Talk Food & Drinks Near the Theater
by Blair Ingenthron - Oct 15, 2023
Video: Arielle Jacobs, Lea Salonga, Jose Llana, and More Talk HERE LIES LOVE on CBS Sunday Morning
by Blair Ingenthron - Jul 16, 2023
Video: Watch KIMBERLY AKIMBO's NPR Tiny Desk Concert With Bonnie Milligan, Victoria Clark & More
by Michael Major - May 19, 2023
DREAMGIRLS, SUNSET BOULEVARD & More Announced for North Carolina Theatre 2022-23 Season
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Apr 29, 2022
VIDEO: Stars Unite to Celebrate 50 Years of Broadway at the Kennedy Center
by Backstage With Richard Ridge - Feb 11, 2022
VIDEO: First Look at LaChanze, Chuck Cooper & More in TROUBLE IN MIND
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Nov 17, 2021
LaChanze News
Nyla Watson Brings AN ODE TO AUDRA to 54 Below
54 Below will present Hadestown star Nyla Watson in An Ode to Audra on Sunday, August 18 at 9:30pm with a livestream option at 9:45pm ET.
54 Below will present Hadestown star Nyla Watson in An Ode to Audra on Sunday, August 18 at 9:30pm with a livestream option at 9:45pm ET.
Carolee Carmello Will Lead National Tour of KIMBERLY AKIMBO
Three-time Tony Award nominee Carolee Carmello will play Kimberly in the National Tour of the musical, KIMBERLY AKIMBO. Learn more about the tour here!
Three-time Tony Award nominee Carolee Carmello will play Kimberly in the National Tour of the musical, KIMBERLY AKIMBO. Learn more about the tour here!
Video: Joshua Boone Records 'Little Brother' from THE OUTSIDERS
Watch Joshua Boone record 'Little Brother' from The Outsiders in the video here!
Watch Joshua Boone record 'Little Brother' from The Outsiders in the video here!
LaChanze-Helmed WINE IN THE WILDERNESS & More Set for Classic Stage Company 24-25 Season
Classic Stage Company has unveiled complete programming for their 2024-25 Season. Learn more and see how to purchase tickets.
Classic Stage Company has unveiled complete programming for their 2024-25 Season. Learn more and see how to purchase tickets.
Industry Pro Newsletter: ANNIE Tour Goes Union, Tony Awards Viewership Dip
We highlight the Situation Project's fundraising campaign for arts education, a viewership drop for the Tony Awards, and Actors' Equity Association's contract halt amid negotiations. Regionally, we explore the economic boost from Hennepin Theatre's Broadway season and the significant arts funding veto by Florida's Governor Ron DeSantis.
We highlight the Situation Project's fundraising campaign for arts education, a viewership drop for the Tony Awards, and Actors' Equity Association's contract halt amid negotiations. Regionally, we explore the economic boost from Hennepin Theatre's Broadway season and the significant arts funding veto by Florida's Governor Ron DeSantis.
LaChanze To Return To 54 Below in September
54 BELOW will present an evening with Broadway legend LaChanze. Learn more and see how to purchase tickets.
54 BELOW will present an evening with Broadway legend LaChanze. Learn more and see how to purchase tickets.
Industry Pro Newsletter: Seattle Rep Layoffs, Pittsburg Fire, and Tony Awards Highlights
This week, we are connecting the excitement of award season with the realities facing theaters. We'll catch you up on the Tony Awards' memorable moments, including a complete winners list and behind-the-scenes photos. Exclusive essays from producers Jeffrey Richards and Rachel Sussman offer personal insights into their Tony-nominated productions.
This week, we are connecting the excitement of award season with the realities facing theaters. We'll catch you up on the Tony Awards' memorable moments, including a complete winners list and behind-the-scenes photos. Exclusive essays from producers Jeffrey Richards and Rachel Sussman offer personal insights into their Tony-nominated productions.
Photos: Celebration of JAJA'S AFRICAN HAIR BRAIDING At The Museum of Broadway
One of this season's most well loved plays, Jaja's African Hair Braiding is taking center stage at the Museum of Broadway! See photos from the event celebrating Jocelyn Bioh's Tony-nominated play below!
One of this season's most well loved plays, Jaja's African Hair Braiding is taking center stage at the Museum of Broadway! See photos from the event celebrating Jocelyn Bioh's Tony-nominated play below!
Video: Meet the Creators Behind the Tony-Nominated Shows of 2024
What makes a perfect Broadway play or musical? The creators of this season's Tony-nominated productions have some idea!
What makes a perfect Broadway play or musical? The creators of this season's Tony-nominated productions have some idea!
Recap the 2024 Tony Awards Acceptance Speeches
The 77th Annual Tony Awards have officially begun! As winners take the stage this evening, stay tuned to BroadwayWorld as we bring you full text of all of the acceptance speeches; from the emotional to the humorous, and everything in between.
The 77th Annual Tony Awards have officially begun! As winners take the stage this evening, stay tuned to BroadwayWorld as we bring you full text of all of the acceptance speeches; from the emotional to the humorous, and everything in between.
Industry Pro Newsletter: Public Theater Crew Joins IATSE & NYC Congestion Pricing Postponed
Starting tonight with a special preview episode, 'The Broadway Cast' with Ben Cameron is coming to BroadwayWorld. Also, we report on the indefinite postponement of NYC's congestion pricing plan. Stories include the Cultural Solidarity Fund's COVID relief efforts, Public Theater crew members joining IATSE.
Starting tonight with a special preview episode, 'The Broadway Cast' with Ben Cameron is coming to BroadwayWorld. Also, we report on the indefinite postponement of NYC's congestion pricing plan. Stories include the Cultural Solidarity Fund's COVID relief efforts, Public Theater crew members joining IATSE.
Video: Playwright Jocelyn Bioh Talks Tony Nominations for JAJA'S AFRICAN HAIR BRAIDING
Playwright Jocelyn Bioh appeared on Good Morning America on Friday to talk about the Tony-nominated play Jaja's African Hair Braiding, which recently played at the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre. The play has been nominated for 5 Tony Awards and will embark on a multi-city tour beginning this September. Watch the full interview!
Playwright Jocelyn Bioh appeared on Good Morning America on Friday to talk about the Tony-nominated play Jaja's African Hair Braiding, which recently played at the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre. The play has been nominated for 5 Tony Awards and will embark on a multi-city tour beginning this September. Watch the full interview!
Ruben Santiago-Hudson, Charlotte d'Amboise & More to Star in REUNION OF BARTERSVILLE Reading
LaChanze Productions has unveiled the cast for an industry reading on June 13 at Pershing Square Signature Center of Reunion in Bartersville. See who is starring and learn how to purchase tickets.
LaChanze Productions has unveiled the cast for an industry reading on June 13 at Pershing Square Signature Center of Reunion in Bartersville. See who is starring and learn how to purchase tickets.
Alicia Keys, Linda Twine, and Maxine Williams Will Be Honored at the 2024 Black Theatre United Gala
Black Theatre United will host its second annual Gala on Monday, September 30, 2024 at the Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York. Learn more about how to attend here!
Black Theatre United will host its second annual Gala on Monday, September 30, 2024 at the Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York. Learn more about how to attend here!
Harlem Stage Announces New Artistic Director and CEO
Harlem Stage has announced producer, director, scholar, and arts and cultural executive Dr. Indira Etwaroo as its new Artistic Director and CEO.
Harlem Stage has announced producer, director, scholar, and arts and cultural executive Dr. Indira Etwaroo as its new Artistic Director and CEO.
Industry Pro Newsletter: Ticketmaster Security Breach
This week we celebrate Baltimore's CJay Philip for her upcoming Tony Award in theater education and LaChanze's launch of a new multimedia production company. On a concerning note, Ticketmaster has experienced a major security breach. Finally, we examine the pressing need for unity in the arts community amidst ongoing discord and funding debates.
This week we celebrate Baltimore's CJay Philip for her upcoming Tony Award in theater education and LaChanze's launch of a new multimedia production company. On a concerning note, Ticketmaster has experienced a major security breach. Finally, we examine the pressing need for unity in the arts community amidst ongoing discord and funding debates.
LaChanze Launches New Multimedia Production Company LaChanze Productions
Tony Award-winning producer LaChanze is launching her new multimedia production company, LaChanze Productions. Learn more about the company!
Tony Award-winning producer LaChanze is launching her new multimedia production company, LaChanze Productions. Learn more about the company!
New Cocktail Ticket Offered For DCPA's Saturday Night Alive Gala
The Denver Center for the Performing Arts introduces a new cocktail ticket for the annual Saturday Night Alive Gala, offering guests an enhanced experience with exclusive drink options and entertainment.
The Denver Center for the Performing Arts introduces a new cocktail ticket for the annual Saturday Night Alive Gala, offering guests an enhanced experience with exclusive drink options and entertainment.
Photos/Video: Go Inside the Recording Studio with Schmidt, Comer, & Grant Singing 'Throwing in the Towel' from THE OUTSIDERS
Go inside the studio with the cast of The Outsiders as Jason Schmidt, Brent Comer, and Brody Grant record 'Throwing in the Towel.'
Go inside the studio with the cast of The Outsiders as Jason Schmidt, Brent Comer, and Brody Grant record 'Throwing in the Towel.'
THE OUTSIDERS Releases New Block of Tickets Through January 5, 2025
A new block of tickets has been released for the Tony Award-nominated Best Musical The Outsiders for performances through January 5, 2025. Find out how to get tickets to the new dates here!
A new block of tickets has been released for the Tony Award-nominated Best Musical The Outsiders for performances through January 5, 2025. Find out how to get tickets to the new dates here!
LaChanze FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How many Broadway shows has LaChanze been in?
LaChanze has appeared on Broadway in 10 shows.
How many West End shows has LaChanze been in?
LaChanze has not appeared in the West End.
What awards has LaChanze been nominated for?
LaChanze has been nominated for several prestigious awards throughout her career. These include Distinguished Performance Awards (Drama League Awards) for "Trouble in Mind," Outstanding Actress in a Play (Outer Critics Circle Awards) for "Trouble in Mind," Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Play (Tony Awards) for "Trouble in Mind," Outstanding Featured Actress in a Musical (Drama Desk Awards) for "The Secret Life of Bees," Outstanding Featured Actress in a Musical (Outer Critics Circle Awards) for "The Secret Life of Bees," Outstanding Actress in a Musical (Drama Desk Awards) for "Summer," Distinguished Performance Award (Drama League Awards) for "Summer: The Donna Summer Musical," Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical (Tony Awards) for "Summer: The Donna Summer Musical," Best Featured Actress in a Musical (BroadwayWorld Awards) for "If/Then," Outstanding Actress in a Musical (Outer Critics Circle Awards) for "The Color Purple," Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical (Tony Awards) for "The Color Purple," Performance (Obie Awards) for "Dessa Rose," Outstanding Actress - Musical (Drama Desk Awards) for "The Bubbly Black Girl Sheds Her Chameleon Skin," Performance (Theatre World Awards) for "Once on This Island," and Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical (Tony Awards) for "Once on this Island."
What awards has LaChanze won?
LaChanze has won several awards throughout her career, including Outstanding Featured Actress in a Musical from the Outer Critics Circle Awards for The Secret Life of Bees, Best Featured Actress in a Musical from the BroadwayWorld Awards for If/Then, Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical at the Tony Awards for The Color Purple, a Performance award from the Obie Awards for Dessa Rose, Outstanding Actress - Musical from the Drama Desk Awards for The Bubbly Black Girl Sheds Her Chameleon Skin, and a Performance award from the Theatre World Awards for Once on This Island.
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