Several of the Elle finalists have had significant professional experience.
Emma Zaks played Paulette and understudied Anne in the revival of LA CAGE AUX FOLLES, which was choreographed by Jerry Mitchell.
Celina Caravajal most recently served as the second cover for Jenn Gambatese in TARZAN. She also understudied Kelli O'Hara in DRACULA, and has additionally appeared on Broadway as a replacement Annie in the 42ND STREET revival and as Demeter in CATS.
Autumn Hurlbert (who made it far in the audition process to replace Annaleigh Ashford as Margot last year) appeared on the First National Tour of LITTLE WOMEN as Beth March.
In addition to those few, several professional theater actresses were cut in the opening dance combination, including Tracy McDowell (a former Maureen on the RENT tour and swing in the Broadway company who also auditioned for Margot last year) and Amanda Flynn (who understudied Glinda in the original Los Angeles company of WICKED.)
Tonya Pinkins: Then we had a "Lot's Wife" last June that was my personal favorite. I'm still trying to get them to let me sing it at some performance where we get to sing an excerpt that's gone.
Tony Kushner: You can sing it at my funeral.
Updated On: 6/2/08 at 11:34 PM