Marisha Wallace, a talented American actress and singer, made a pivotal move to the United Kingdom not due to political motivations but rather for a remarkable opportunity. In late 2016, she took on a last-minute role in the West End production of “Dreamgirls”, stepping in for an ailing actor in Casey Nicholaw's acclaimed show. Wallace portrayed the iconic character Effie White, a role she delivered with such prowess that it led to a cascade of job offers. This marked the beginning of her flourishing career in London, where she thrived in ways she hadn’t in New York City.
In the vibrant theater scene of London, Marisha Wallace not only established her career but also built a fulfilling life, garnering numerous accolades along the way. She received multiple Olivier Award nominations and earned rave reviews from critics, with comments highlighting her performances as “sensational as always” and recognizing her ability to “dominate every musical she’s in.” Her exceptional talent has firmly positioned her as a leading figure in the West End.
Earlier this year, Wallace starred in Rebecca Frecknall’s production of “Cabaret”, where she played the role of nightclub singer Sally Bowles alongside the renowned Billy Porter, who portrayed the Emcee. This high-profile run not only showcased her versatility but also coincided with her acquisition of British citizenship. Interestingly, this milestone occurred as a significant number of Americans were considering relocating to the UK, seeking alternatives amid the political climate under President Trump.
“People call me literally all the time: ‘How did you do it?’” Wallace shared during a recent conversation, her soft Southern accent adding warmth to her words. She has referred numerous aspiring immigrants to her lawyer, which resulted in him no longer offering free consultations due to high demand. “He’s like, booked to the hilt,” she noted, reflecting on both her own busy schedule and the growing interest in moving to the UK.
Now, Marisha Wallace has brought her acclaimed portrayal of Sally Bowles back to Broadway, where she, along with Porter, is headlining the final months of Frecknall’s “Cabaret” at the August Wilson Theater. Her performances continue to captivate audiences and critics alike, and her journey from North Carolina to international stardom serves as an inspiring narrative for many. I had wanted to speak with Wallace long before witnessing her talent firsthand; her stunning performance as Miss Adelaide in Nicholas Hytner’s “Guys and Dolls” at the Bridge Theater in London left a lasting impression on me.
