Oct 26th preview has been canceled.
Just 10 days before the opening of the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical Oklahoma!, the first production in the $135 million Mead Center for American Theater, Arena Stage announced that Helen Hayes Award winner Eleasha Gamble will be replacing actress Valisia LeKae in the leading role of Laurey.
LeKae, who according to Playbill, appeared in the first preview on Oct 22nd, and in last weekend’s sneak preview performances, “has withdrawn from the production for pressing personal matters,” according to the Arena Stage press release.
Popular DC actress Eleasha Gamble, who has most often been seen performing at Signature Theatre ( First You Dream, Les Misérables, Into the Woods, My Fair Lady, Urinetown, Follies, among others) won the 2010 Helen Hayes Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress for her role in The Civil War at Ford’s Theatre and most recently performed the role of Svetlana in Chess at Signature which closed October 3rd. She did not appear on previous cast announcements for Oklahoma! from Arena Stage.
In light of the casting change, Arena Stage has canceled the October 26th preview. Anyone holding tickets for tonight’s performance should call the box office, 202-488-3300.
Saw Eleasha working “on book” on the performance of October 29th — she was absolutely wonderful. What a pro — after only 3 days to prep. What a gorgeous voice you have, Eleasha!
What a break for DC audiences! Arena Stage please note: you CAN cast your shows locally! Especially the musicals!
My best to you always, Eleasha! Break legs!!
Wow – how exciting for Eleasha and for the audience members……can’t wait to see the show.
Break a leg, Eleasha. You will be fantastic! Such a talented lady!
What an undertaking but if anyone can do it Eleasha can. You go girl, Break a leg.
This is so exciting! Eleasha is fabulous! Can’t wait to see the show!