The trio of stars from the La Jolla Playhouse world premiere of Summer will return to the Donna Summer bio-musical when it lands on Broadway this spring. Tony Award winner LaChanze, Hamilton and A Bronx Tale alum Ariana DeBose, and newcomer Storm Lever will share the role of the disco star, portraying her at various stages of her life and career.
As previously announced, performances will begin March 28 at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre, where the musical will officially open April 23.
LaChanze will play “Diva Donna,” who shares her life story with the audience. The Color Purple Tony winner and Once on This Island nominee most recently appeared on Broadway in If/Then. DeBose, who plays Summer at the height of her Studio 54 days as “Disco Donna,” originated the roles of Jane in A Bronx Tale and the Bullet in Hamilton. Lever will portray the youngest Donna—“Duckling Donna.” Her previous stage credits include Freaky Friday at La Jolla Playhouse and Signature Theatre and Off-Broadway’s Wringer.
Additional casting will be announced at a later date.
The production, directed by Des McAnuff, weaves Summer's well-known hits (including “Love to Love You, Baby,” “Hot Stuff,” and “MacArthur Park”) with a book penned by McAnuff, Colman Domingo, and Robert Cary.
