West End transfer of Lady Day starring Audra McDonald postponed
© Joan Marcus
Tony, Grammy and Emmy Award-winning musical theatre star Audra McDonald was due to make her West End debut in the musical play about jazz singer Billie Holliday, but has postponed her engagement as she and husband, actor Will Swenson, are expecting a baby.
Speaking from New York where she is currently starring in the Broadway production of Shuffle Along, McDonald said: "Who knew that tap dancing during perimenopause could lead to pregnancy? Will and I are completely surprised – and elated – to be expecting a new addition to our family.
"I am so very grateful to everyone in New York and London for allowing me to rearrange my schedule to accommodate this little miracle. Of course, I’m disappointed I have to postpone my West End debut in Lady Day, but I look forward to rescheduling as soon as possible.''
Who knew that tap dancing during perimenopause could lead 2 pregnancy? @thewillswenson & I are completely surprised but elated 2 b expecting
— Audra McDonald (@AudraEqualityMc) May 10, 2016
The show won two Tony Awards in 2014, with McDonald scooping best lead actress in a play.
Lady Day portrays the troubled life of Holiday, who rose to fame in the 1930s and '40s and died at the age of 44. It features several of the singer's classic songs "God Bless the Child", "What a Little Moonlight Can Do," "Strange Fruit" and "Taint Nobody's Biz-ness."
McDonald is the only person to receive Tony awards in all four acting categories. She has won six Tonys in total – more than any other actor.
Lady Day at Emerson's Bar & Grill was due to run at Wyndham's Theatre from 25 June to 3 September, ticket holders are advised to contact point of sale for refunds.
