Wicked star Cynthia Erivo has earned herself the role of a lifetime.
The British actress, who is a black lesbian, has been cast as the titular role in the iconic rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar.
The show will run for three nights in a row at the Hollywood Bowl this August.
Billboard reports:
Set for three back-to-back shows Aug. 1-3 at the famed Los Angeles amphitheater, the Sergio Trujillo-directed production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s beloved musical will see Jesus Christ Superstar “returning to its rock roots,” according to a description on Hollywood Bowl’s website.
The show retells the story of Jesus’ death and resurrection through the eyes of his biblical betrayer, Judas Iscariot, while examining the prophet’s relationships to his disciples and Mary Magdalene — characters who will be played by additional “all-star” cast-members that’ll be announced at a future date, the site promises.
The announcement comes days after Erivo was awarded GLAAD’s annual Stephen F. Kolzak prize for making a “significant difference in raising visibility and promoting acceptance of LGBTQ people and issues.”
GLAAD president and CEO Sarah Kate Ellis said in a statement:
Her legacy is defined not by her numerous accolades and honors but by how with each new platform and milestone, she continues to show up for Black, queer and other marginalized peoples amid her well-deserved success.
As she continues to shatter glass ceilings, I am certain her commitment to showing up as the intersectional and authentic person she is will never falter, and it is a privilege to present her with the Stephen F. Kolzak Award at this year’s GLAAD Media Awards.
The 38-year-old actress is also potentially in line for an Oscar for her performance in Wicked, having been nominated for Best Actress at the upcoming Academy Awards.
Back in 2018, Erivo threatened President Donald Trump with witchcraft after he allegedly made degrading comments about “sh*thole” countries.
“I hope all the Africans in this world call on their ancestors,” she said at the time. “Don’t worry Donald, we are the wrong ones.”
”You are not safe because you are on another continent. Biko do yourself a favor, take a break. Wahala de come for you oh.”
Nigerian-British Actress Threatens President Trump With Witchcraft: ‘You Are Not Safe’
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