NeNe Leakes
Reality star NeNe Leakes of “Real Housewives of Atlanta” fame has made her Broadway debut in Roger + Hammerstein’s “Cinderella” as the wicked stepmother named Madame.
NeNe Leakes says she’s ready for the new challenge and that her recent role in Cirque du Soleil’s Zumanity prepared her for the stage work in Cinderella. In addition, she gave a nod to actress Sherri Shepherd, who is also African-American, and currently playing the part of Madame. “I saw her perform several times and she is doing a great job and I’m honored to follow in her footsteps.”
Still, she does concede she’s both excited and nervous, in a good way. When asked if her time on “Real Housewives of Atlanta” reality show, which frequently features less than perfect behavior, helped her channel any emotions for Madame, she responded with a laugh and admitted it most certainly did.
This version of the classic fairy tale is described as a “fresh, new take on the beloved tale of a young woman who is transformed from a chambermaid into a princess,” where “this hilarious and romantic Cinderella combines the story’s classic elements – glass slippers, pumpkin, a beautiful ball and more – with some surprise twists,” in the press release which also adds that it’s more “than just a pretty face with the right shoe size” but the story of “a spirited young woman with savvy and soul, eager to develop a world view doesn’t let her rags or her gowns trip her up in her quest for kindness, compassion and forgiveness…”
While Leakes, 46, looked forward to her Broadway debut, which started on Tuesday, November 25 and runs through January 3, 2015, she also wished she could spend the holidays with her loved ones. “I always spend the holidays with my family because that’s what this time is about, so that won’t happen as much this year,” she says.
She encourage other families support the show: “This is a time to come out with your family and create a new memory, especially African-American families since it’s a multicultural cast.”
Tickets to Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella are on sale through Telecharge and can be purchased by calling 212-239-6200, online at www.telecharge.com. Tickets are also on sale at the Broadway Theater (1681 Broadway at 53rd Street).
For more information please visit www.CinderellaOnBroadway.com
