Zoot Suit Broadway Original Cast
It’s Los Angeles, Calif., the years 1942 to 1943. The war in the Pacific is in full gear, American big band music has young people at home dancing up a storm and the Zoot Suit is the uniform of choice for Chicano gangs on the streets of Los Angeles. Full synopsis
Original
Original Cast
Bailiff
Guard (u/s)
Judge F. W. Charles (u/s)
Lieutenant Edwards (u/s)
Press (u/s)
Sergeant Smith
(The Court)
Cub Reporter (u/s)
Hobo
Marine
Rafas (u/s)
Rudy Reyna (u/s)
Smiley Torres (u/s)
(The Downey Gang)
Richard Jay-Alexander launched his theatrical career in 1977 as part of the original cast of the Broadway play ZOOT SUIT, marking the beginning of an illustrious journey in theater that would see him become a prominent director and producer in the industry. more...
Bertha Villareal (u/s)
Elena Torres (u/s)
Hoba
(The Downey Gang)
Michele Mais, who graced the Broadway stage in Zoot Suit, has had a remarkable career, including originating the role of Justice in Rock of Ages since 2005 and earning accolades such as the Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle Award for her performance in The Last Session. more...
El Pachuco
Dolores Reyna
(Henry Reyna's Family)
Lupe Ontiveros was a versatile actress known for her powerful performances, including her role in the original 1979 production of "Zoot Suit," where she brought depth and authenticity to the stage, contributing to the show's groundbreaking exploration of Chicano culture and social issues. more...
Della Barrios
(Henry Reyna's Gang)
Rose Portillo's illustrious career began with a lead role in Luis Valdez's Zoot Suit, where she showcased her talents in the original Los Angeles production, on Broadway, and in the film adaptation, marking the start of her extensive contributions to theater, film, and television. more...
Henry Reyna
See awards and nominations on the Zoot Suit page
Production Team
Dawn Chiang Lighting Designer
Peter J. Hall Costume Designer
Abe Jacob Sound Designer
Dan Kuramota Orchestrator
(Additional Orchestrations)
(Additional Orchestrations)
Ron De Mann Hair Designer
Luis Valdez Director