With all the popularity of the first Broadway revival of Rodger and Hammerstein’s Cinderella, I thought I would take a minute to do some dream casting of other Disney princesses that we adore. Tell us what you think of our ideas in the comments… or, if you’re Bernie Telsey, call me!
Snow White – Stephanie J. Block
Let’s be clear: Stephanie J. Block is queen status. But, if we must talk “princesses,” Snow White would be our pick. With a powerful voice and natural beauty, Stephanie would be perfect to play the German princess, though instead of whistling, she might be belting while she works. And who knows, maybe Disney can borrow a few of the Newsies boys to play the seven dwarfs?
Aurora – Jessie Mueller
Jessie Mueller would be perfect to play the sleeping beauty after her run in Beautiful: The Carol King Musical. Who wouldn’t want to see the Prince Phillip battle Maleficent as she turns into a ferocious dragon? Bernadette Peters, you might be able to bring your wicked ways back to the stage.
Belle – Laura Osnes
Though Laura is already busy playing Cinderella, maybe a turn at Belle is next in her future? She reminds me so much of Belle, and we know she has the vocal chops and humor to be in this colorful musical. I could totally see her in the revival of Beauty and the Beast, Disney’s first Broadway masterpiece. Hopefully we get to see her trade in the glass slipper for a rose soon.
Ariel – Sutton Foster
When looking for a smart, quirky actress with singing and dancing chops, the only actress that comes to mind was Sutton Foster. Though The Little Mermaid has already made its Broadway run, there are productions popping up all over, including Paper Mill Playhouse. Maybe Sutton can be a part of The Little Mermaid’s world in the revival? We’d love to see her rocking the roller skates! (And can we also throw out Leslie Margherita as Ursula? Is that genius, or what?)
Pocahontas – Patina Miller
You would think Patina wouldn’t be an accurate choice for the Native-American heroine, but if you look more closely, you can see a lot of similarities in the two women. Patina is strong, determined, and has a powerful voice. Maybe the Hunger Games will teach her some survival skills before she paints the colors of the wind on Broadway.
Tiana – Montego Glover
After playing Felicia in Memphis, Montego could play another character who understands the importance of hard work in order to make your dreams come true. The Princess and the Frog would be a great musical with a great score, and could give Montego Glover another go for the Tony’s!
Rapunzel – Annaleigh Ashford
From playing Lauren, the spunky factory worker in Kinky Boots, Annaleigh could definitely transition into a Broadway adaptation of the more contemporary Disney favorite, Tangled. Annaleigh could definitely capture Rapunzel’s sense of adventure and spirit, not afraid to get her clothes, or in this case, her hair dirty. Could Annaleigh don the long locks of Rapunzel in the future? We’d love to see this one hit the stage!
Merida – Lea Michele
Stick a curly, red wig on Lea and we totally think she would instantly transform into this butt-kicking, tough and curious princess. With such a harrowing story, we’re sure that there would be some major belting moments that no one could do quite like the Spring Awakening star.