Rachel Zegler to star in Broadway production of Evita

By Lauren Del Fabbro, Press Association Entertainment Reporter

US actress Rachel Zegler will star in a Broadway production of Evita and reprise her role as Eva Peron.

The 24-year-old made her West End debut starring in Jamie Lloyd’s revival of Sir Tim Rice and Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber’s hit musical where she portrayed the former first lady of Argentina – a role which won the actress her first Olivier award.

She made headlines for her performance which included a rendition of the musical’s most famous number, Don’t Cry For Me Argentina, from the London Palladium theatre balcony to passers-by.

The staging of the hit song, however, will not be possible in the upcoming Broadway show, according to director Lloyd, who said he will explore new ideas.

Zegler said: “Performing Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s brilliant show in London was a dream come true, but being able to partner once again with Jamie to bring Evita to Broadway is a once in a lifetime opportunity.

“I can’t wait to perform for my home, New York City.”

The musical, which follows Peron’s rise from actress to first lady as she climbs the ranks to become a powerful, influential figure, will transfer to New York City’s Broadway for spring 2027.

Lloyd, who will return to direct the Broadway production, said: “I was completely overwhelmed by the incredible response to Evita in London. It is an honour to work with Tim and Andrew, and I’m looking forward to revisiting the production with Rachel, whose stellar performance continues to inspire me.

“When we started discussing a New York production, it became apparent that our Palladium staging of Don’t Cry For Me Argentina would not be possible. I am really excited to explore a new idea, made especially for Broadway.”

Earlier this month the show received two Olivier awards, including best actress in a musical for Zegler, as well as five WhatsOnStage awards, including best musical revival and choreography, with Zegler named the best performer in a musical.

Sir Tim praised Zegler for her “magnetic”, “electric” and “charismatic” performance of Eva.

Lord Lloyd-Webber added: “It is so exciting to see Tim and my work reimagined in new ways, and the show has a generational talent in Rachel Zegler. I can’t wait for American audiences to experience a production which took the West End by storm.”