Broadway Legend Frances Ruffelle Is Back With a Brand New Show
Long before Lin-Manuel Miranda became the belle of the Broadway ball, "Les Miserables" crossed over into pop-music success to become a household name. Tony winner Frances Ruffelle originated the role of Eponine in the show's first production.
She joins Cheddar to discuss her new monthly residency in New York City. "Frances Ruffelle Live(s) in New York" is her recurring cabaret show showing at The Green Room 42 on February 1st.
Ruffelle explains what it's like collaborating with actor Craig Bierko in this month's show. The two live together and balance their on-stage artistry with their off-stage personal lives. She reveals her favorite numbers of the production and whether or not she sings in the shower.
The actress and singer looks back at Broadway's historic box office run in recent months. She says the industry is incredibly volatile and trends in ticket sales should never be taken at face value. She also weighs in on the Time's Up and #MeToo movements, revealing she's fortunate to have never dealt with any mistreatment in her field.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis ' administration is moving to forbid classroom instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity in all grades, expanding the controversial law critics call “Don't Say Gay” as the Republican governor continues to focus on cultural issues ahead of his expected presidential run.
Taylor Swift's Eras Tour recently opened with two nights at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. During a key moment in both shows, Swift performed what Billboard has called a one-of-a-kind stunt that has been leaving fans speechless. (It's not your typical stage dive!)
Musician Bruce Springsteen, actress Mindy Kaling and designer, Vera Wang were some of the celebrities honored at the White House on Tuesday. President Biden and his wife Dr Jill Biden gave honorees medals. Other honorees included Gladys Knight, Julia Louis Dreyfus and Amy Tan. The medals are Biden's first batch of awards for the arts and humanities. They were delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
