So long High School Musical! Vanessa Hudgens is taking on the Great White Way in a new Broadway revival of Gigi. In the musical production, which previews start March 19 and opens April 8, the former Disney star plays the lead, titular role, a free-spirited Belle Epoque Parisian girl being groomed as a courtesan.
Complete with boas and silk ensembles, Hudgens, 26, appears to truly transform into the glamorous and fun role alongside costars Victoria Clark and Corey Cott.
During a pre-Broadway review, Variety gave the Spring Breakers actress a rave review.
“Hudgens delivers a solid performance in a challenging role that requires a transition from impetuous brat to mature young woman,” Variety wrote. “A strong singer, Hudgens nails both her vocal and dancing duties, with the former especially showcased in Act One’s spunky ‘The Parisians.’” (The role was made famous in 1951 and starred Audrey Hepburn.)
The first stint of Gigi only lasted three months, but according to the site, the revival stands a chance.
Hudgens previously appeared in numerous productions including Evita, Carousel, The Wizard of Oz, The King & I, The Music Man, Cinderella, and Damn Yankees.
Tickets for the production are on sale now at Ticketmaster and the box office at Neil Simon Theatre opens Monday, Feb 23.
For access to all our exclusive celebrity videos and interviews – Subscribe on YouTube!