Ariana DeBose to star in The Baker’s Wife

Ariana DeBose will play Geneviève in a production of The Baker’s Wife.

Featuring a score by Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Pippin) and a book by Joseph Stein (Fiddler on the Roof), the musical is set in a provincial French village, where the arrival of a new Baker and his younger wife turns it upside down. It is based on the 1938 French film La Femme du Boulanger by Marcel Pagnol and Jean Giono.

The 1976 musical has never received a full-scale production in New York City before now.

Schwartz said: “Ariana is one of our finest young singing actresses, and I’m excited by the depth and nuance she will bring to the title role.”

He added:  “Plus, I’ve had the pleasure of hearing her sing “Meadowlark,” so I know CSC audiences are in for a treat.”

Director Greenberg commented: “Ariana DeBose brings an electric mix of vulnerability, wit, and star power to Genevieve – qualities that not only honor Stephen and Joe’s beautiful work but also ignite it in thrilling new ways. She’s the kind of performer who makes you lean forward in your seat—not just because of her voice, which is extraordinary, but because of the emotional truth she brings to every moment. Watching her inhabit this role will be like discovering the character for the first time.”

The Baker’s Wife is presented by special arrangement with the Menier Chocolate Factory (David Babani, artistic director), who staged the recent London revival, Creative Partners Productions, and Aaron Glick.

Directed by Gordon Greenberg, it will play at Classic Stage Company’s Lynn F Angelson Theater from 23 October to 15 December 2025.

Further casting and creative team are to be confirmed.