The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County and Broadway Across America are proud to continue the 2023-2024 Broadway in Miami series with the South Florida premiere of The Cher Show kicking off the new year from January 2-7. The Cher Show is 35 smash hits, six decades of stardom, two rock-star husbands, a Grammy, an Oscar, an Emmy and enough Tony Award-winning Bob Mackie gowns to cause a sequin shortage in New York City, all in one unabashedly fabulous new musical that will have audiences dancing in the aisles!
Superstars come and go. Cher is forever. For six straight decades, only one unstoppable force has flat out dominated popular culture — breaking down barriers, pushing boundaries and letting nothing and no one stand in her way. Tracking the icon’s rise to fame and legendary career, three actresses will bring Cher’s story to life on stage, marking distinct phases in her life. Ella Perez plays “Babe” – the bright-eyed kid starting out; with Catherine Ariale as “Lady” – the glam pop star; and Morgan Scott as “Star” – the cultural icon.
Mike Bindeman is featured in the roles of Gregg Allman and John Southall, with Tyler Pirrung as Bob Mackie/Robert Altman/Frank, and Lucy Werner as Georgia Holt and Lucille Ball. Lorenzo Pugliese stars as Sonny Bono.
Rounding out the cast are Emma Alteri, Michelle Arotsky, Neftali Benitez, Charles Blaha, Gary Paul Bowman, Emma Jade Branson, Kevin Michael Buckley, Samantha Butts, Liz Davis, Mollie Downes, Jordan Gold, Nathan Hoty, Tre Kanaley, Drew Lake, Mason Derreck Lewis, and Grace Napoletano.
The 2023-2024 National Tour of The Cher Show is directed by Casey Hushion, with choreography by Antoinette DiPietropolo, and original Broadway and tour costume design by Bob Mackie.
It was a pleasure to sit down with Ella Perez who plays “Babe” (Young Cher) for this exclusive Hotspots interview:
At what age did you begin performing?
I started dancing when I was 5, and I started musicals in the 6th grade. My first role was in “The Little Mermaid.”
What was your first paid gig and how much did you get paid?
My first paid gig was this past summer when I did a local tour of Rent.
When did you know performing would be your career?
It was my senior year of high school. I saw a lot of people around me who were doing it and that’s when I decided that it was for me. Sitting at a desk sounded horrible to me and I decided to do something that made me happy.
Is there extra pressure playing such a cultural Icon?
For sure! I was very nervous because she is such a recognized person and has a specific way about herself. However, as I was getting more comfortable with her and the script, I realized I had a lot more in common with her than I initially thought.
Other than this one, what has been your favorite role so far?
I just did Cabaret and I got to play the MC, and I think its my favorite thing that I have ever done as it was out of my comfort zone. I fell in love with the show even more than I already was. It was such an honor to get to play such an important role. I couldn’t have asked to end my college career in a better way.
What’s your fantasy role (a role you haven’t played but want to)?
It changes all the time when I see new things but right now it’s the role of the “Leading Player” in “Pippin.”
How well do you and your castmates get along?
Oh, so wonderfully. Everyone really clicked the first week of rehearsals. The director said she cast the show not only based on talent but based on people that are nice and that she wanted to be around. She did a great job, as we all just get along and like each other.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Loud, intuitive, and empathetic.
What do you do for fun?
I am trying to learn the guitar right now. I am not that good yet, but I do love it. I also love spirituality and tarot reading.
What should our readers expect from this touring company of “The Cher Show”?
Glitter, sparkles, disco lights, and all your favorite Cher songs. Even if you are not a big Cher fan, you will recognize a lot of the songs. The choreography and ensemble are just so strong, it’s incredible. You also learn so much about Cher…and the show is just so fun, I promise everyone that attends will have a great time.
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If you want to find out more about the lovely Ella, follow her at: Instagram.com/ellaa.perez.
For more information, visit www.TheCherShowTour.com.
Tickets to The Cher Show are $35-$130 and may be purchased online at arshtcenter.org or at the Adrienne Arsht Center box office by calling (305) 949-6722.
