Eartha Kitt, the iconic singer, actress, and cabaret star, graced the Broadway stage in several notable productions throughout her illustrious career. Her roles ranged from original cast members to replacements, showcasing her versatile talent.
Eartha Kitt's Broadway Appearances
Eartha Kitt starred in five distinct Broadway shows, bringing her unique charm and powerful presence to each role. These productions spanned several decades, from the late 1950s to the early 2000s.
Below is a detailed list of the Broadway shows Eartha Kitt performed in, including her specific role and the opening date of each production:
Broadway Show | Role | Role Type | Opening Date |
---|---|---|---|
Nine | Liliane La Fleur | Replacement | April 10, 2003 |
The Wild Party | Dolores | Original | April 13, 2000 |
Timbuktu! | Sahleem-La-Lume | Original | March 01, 1978 |
Jolly's Progress | Jolly Rivers | Original | December 05, 1959 |
Shinbone Alley | Mehitabel | Original | April 13, 1957 |
Source: Eartha Kitt (Performer) | Playbill
These roles highlight Kitt's remarkable longevity and adaptability as a performer, from her early days in musical theatre to her later career. For instance, in Shinbone Alley, she originated the role of the alley cat Mehitabel, a character that perfectly suited her distinctive vocal style and playful persona. Decades later, she continued to captivate audiences as the replacement for Liliane La Fleur in the critically acclaimed revival of Nine. Her contributions to Broadway remain a significant part of her enduring legacy.