Oct 2
Liza Minnelli Tries on a New Role: Producer for 'DRAG: The Musical'
Kilian Melloy READ TIME: 2 MIN.
People Magazine reported that Liza Minnelli has returned to the smell of greasepaint and the creak of the stage's floorboards as she undertakes producer duties for "DRAG: The Musical," now in previews in New York.
The show "began previews at the New World Stages theater on Monday, Sept. 30 and will officially open on Oct. 21," the magazine detailed, before noting that "producing 'DRAG' is also an exciting new venture, as its Minnelli's first time producing a full-length musical."
"She joins producing partners Tomas Costanza, Scott Prisand and Matt Weaver (Prisand and Weaver are both known for 'Rock of Ages'), alongside Tristan Schukraft, owner of LA's iconic gay bar, The Abbey."
The show, co-written by drag icon Alaska Thunderfuck, premiered in Los Angeles in 2022, People recalled. The current production features Alaska, as well as "Broadway alum and 'Fire Island' actor Nick Adams, New Kids on the Block singer Joey McIntyre, Bre Jackson, Eddie Korbich, J. Elaine Marcos, Jan Sport, Jujubee, Lagonna Blu, Luxx Noir London, Nick Laughlin, Remi Tuckman and Yair Keydar," the entertainment outlet said.
The show's timing feels apt, with the centuries-old theatrical art coming under intense attack from Republican lawmakers in recent years.
The "Cabaret" star declared her enthusiasm for the musical, saying in a statement that "'DRAG: The Musical' is a work of art," People detailed.
"It's so brilliant that I had to join as a producer!" Minnelli added. "Join me at every performance. Yes, EVERY PERFORMANCE!"
"The move marks a return to Minnelli's roots," People noted of the 78-year-old icon of stage and screen. "The EGOT-winning performer has four Tony Awards, including two for best leading actress in a musical (for 'Flora the Red Menace' in 1965, then 'The Act' in 1978)."
Kilian Melloy serves as EDGE Media Network's Associate Arts Editor and Staff Contributor. His professional memberships include the National Lesbian & Gay Journalists Association, the Boston Online Film Critics Association, The Gay and Lesbian Entertainment Critics Association, and the Boston Theater Critics Association's Elliot Norton Awards Committee.
