Rachel Zegler’s acclaimed balcony performance in Evita, which captivated London audiences, will not be replicated on Broadway due to safety concerns over gun violence in the United States. The 24-year-old actress earned critical praise and a Laurence Olivier Award for her portrayal of Eva Perón in the West End production, where she famously left the theatre to sing Don’t Cry for Me Argentina from a balcony overlooking Argyll Street.
Andrew Lloyd Webber explains decision
Andrew Lloyd Webber, who composed the music for the show that debuted in 1978, told USA Today that the balcony scene poses too great a risk in New York. “The one thing that absolutely cannot happen is what we did in London on the balcony,” he said. “We can’t do that in New York. I mean, something awful could happen. We have gun laws in Britain.” He hinted that a new concept is being developed for Broadway audiences, expressing excitement about exploring an alternative idea made specifically for the New York production.
Public reaction to the change
News that the iconic scene would be omitted sparked disappointment online. User Cash posted on X: “Truly sad world we live in that we can’t witness a generational talent like Rachel Zegler belt and deliver a showstopping performance on the balcony simply because it’s nutcases that really would try to shoot her and end her life.” Soph commented: “Them having to change a key part of the show because people could shoot her in the US is literally insane btw.” M added: “How sad that US can’t have such an amazing piece because they’re scared a lunatic will shoot her. How is anyone okay with that?” Gracie wrote: “I loved the balcony performances but unfortunately it is just not safe or feasible for NYC. Very interested to see what they do for Broadway.” Meanwhile, B argued that omitting the balcony scene “breaks with the entire purpose. The working class and workers CANNOT be represented by those who are inside the theatre. I hope they fix it.” Some suggested Rachel might instead be shown singing on a screen in Times Square as an alternative.
Background on Evita
Evita chronicles the life of Eva Perón, from her humble origins to her rise as Argentina’s first lady, political career, and early death. Originally a rock opera concert album, it premiered on the West End in 1978 starring Elaine Page, and transferred to Broadway the following year with Patti LuPone and Mandy Patinkin. A 1996 film adaptation starred Madonna. The new Broadway production, directed by Jamie Lloyd, will feature Zegler reprising her role after a 12-week London run last year.
Quotes from the cast and creator
Lloyd Webber called the show’s return to Broadway “so exciting to see the work reimagined in new ways,” adding that Zegler is “a generational talent. I can’t wait for American audiences to experience a production which took the West End by storm.” Zegler said: “Performing Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s brilliant show in London was a dream come true, but being able to partner once again with Jamie to bring Evita to Broadway is a once in a lifetime opportunity. I can’t wait to perform for my home, New York City.”
Safety concerns during London run
During the London run, thousands gathered on the street outside the London Palladium to watch Zegler perform on the balcony. Lloyd Webber admitted on Good Morning Britain that he was “a little bit worried it might get out of hand,” but added: “You just hope it doesn’t become such a big thing that we’re not allowed to do it.”
