Broadway gets its first black ‘Phantom’ with Norm Lewis taking on the role
Norm Lewis has been selected to be Broadway’s next Phantom in the hit stage production “The Phantom of the Opera.”
The move makes Lewis the first African-American to portray the role.
Producers said Thursday the Tony Award nominee, who brought his deep and rich voice as Porgy to the recent “Porgy and Bess” revival, will make his “Phantom” debut opposite a returning Sierra Boggess as Christine beginning May 12.
“I’m overwhelmed. The idea of doing something that I’ve always wanted to do and it coming to fruition is amazing,” Lewis said in a phone interview Thursday.
Lewis, who has appeared as a senator in ABC’s “Scandal” with Kerry Washington, called the Phantom a dream job for two reasons: “I love the show but also to have hopefully set a precedent to see more diversity in casting,” he said.
Based on a novel by Gaston Leroux, “Phantom” tells the story of a deformed composer who haunts the Paris Opera House. He falls madly in love with Christine, an innocent young soprano.
The show has been running since 1988.
Congratulations Mr. Lewis!
What role would you like to see a black star take lead in?
Sound off below!