The First Broadway Original Cast
Fictionalized account of the life of Jackie Robinson. Full synopsis
Original
Original Cast
Red Barber
(Swing)
Cool Minnie
Cool Minnie Edwards
Brian Waterhouse
Clyde Sukeforth (u/s)
Dodger Coach
Frog
Frog/Brian Waterhouse
Bill Buell, who has an extensive Broadway career, was part of the cast of "The First," showcasing his versatile talent in this past production. more...
Brooklyn Trainer
Eddie Stanky
Eddie Stanky/Brooklyn Trainer
Pee Wee Reese (u/s)
Pittsburgh Pirate
Pittsburgh Pirates
Reds Fan
Dr. Johnson
Junkyard Jones
Junkyard Jones/Dr. Johnson
Philadelphia Reporter
Sorrentino
Sorrentino/Umpire/Trainer
Trainer
Umpire
Clyde Sukeforth
Jackie Robinson
David Alan Grier's portrayal of Jackie Robinson in the Broadway musical The First earned him a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actor in a Musical and a Theatre World Award, marking a significant early achievement in his illustrious career. more...
Dodger Coach
Huey
Huey/Sheriff
Philadelphia Reporter
Sheriff
Branch Rickey
A Girl at the Bar
Dodger Wife
Eunice (u/s)
Girl at the Bar
Hilda Chester (u/s)
(Understudy)
Rachel Isum
Casey Higgins
Bartender
Hatrack Harris
Waiter/Hatrack Harris
Rodney Saulsberry, renowned for his exceptional voice-over talent and recognized as "The voice of choice for behind-the-scenes narration" by Black Enterprise Magazine, brought his distinctive vocal skills to The First, adding a unique auditory experience to the show. more...
(Understudy)
Leo Durocher
See awards and nominations on the The First page
Production Team
David Chapman Scenic Designer
Martin Charnin Director
Luther Henderson Orchestrator
Alan Johnson Choreographer
Choreographer
Carrie Robbins Costume Designer
Louis Shapiro Sound Designer
Marc B. Weiss Lighting Designer