An American in Paris is a beloved Broadway musical that has captivated audiences with its stunning choreography and captivating storyline. The musical was originally inspired by the 1951 movie of the same name, which starred Gene Kelly and Leslie Caron.
But who were the talented performers that brought this iconic story to life on the Broadway stage? Let’s take a closer look.
The Lead Role – Jerry Mulligan
The role of Jerry Mulligan, an American World War II veteran who stays in Paris to pursue his passion for art, was played by Robert Fairchild. Fairchild is a highly accomplished dancer who has previously won a Tony Award for his performance in An American in Paris. He brought both charm and authenticity to the character of Jerry, making him instantly lovable.
The Female Leads – Lise Dassin and Milo Davenport
Lise Dassin, a French ballerina who captures Jerry’s heart, was spectacularly portrayed by Leanne Cope. Cope is a trained ballet dancer who had previously performed with the Royal Ballet Company in London before making her Broadway debut in this production. She was able to bring depth and emotion to Lise’s character through her graceful movements and subtle expressions.
Milo Davenport, an American socialite who falls for Jerry but ultimately helps him reunite with Lise, was played by Jill Paice. Paice is an experienced actress who has appeared in numerous Broadway productions such as The 39 Steps and Matilda the Musical. Her portrayal of Milo added a layer of complexity to the story that wouldn’t have been possible without her nuanced performance.
The Supporting Cast
The rest of the cast of An American in Paris included many talented performers who helped bring the story to life. Some notable actors include:
- Brandon Uranowitz as Adam Hochberg – A Jewish-American composer and close friend of Jerry’s who provides the musical score for the show.
- Max von Essen as Henri Baurel – A French singer and dancer who is engaged to Lise but ultimately steps aside for Jerry.
- Vicky Nonnenmacher as Olga – A wealthy American woman who is competing with Milo for Jerry’s affections.
The Ensemble
Of course, no Broadway production would be complete without a talented ensemble to support the lead performers. The ensemble of An American in Paris was made up of some of the best dancers and singers in the industry, including past and present members of major dance companies such as the New York City Ballet and Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.
Conclusion
An American in Paris on Broadway featured a talented cast of performers who brought this beloved story to life with their incredible dancing, singing, and acting skills. From Robert Fairchild’s charming portrayal of Jerry Mulligan to Leanne Cope’s graceful performance as Lise Dassin, each actor added something special to this production. It was truly a feast for the eyes and ears that left audiences breathless night after night.