Christiane Noll, Jenn Colella, Erin Mackey Cast for ‘Chaplin’s’ Broadway Run

Producers have finally announced initial casting for the upcoming musical “Chaplin,” which will explore the life of Charlie Chaplin. Christiane Noll, Jenn Colella and Erin Mackey are among those that will join the cast. The only casting that had been revealed to this point was Rob McClure as the title role.

Noll will star as Chaplin’s mother Hannah, Erin Mackey will play his fourth wife Oona O’Neill, and Jenn Colella will fill the role of gossip columnist and actress Hedda Hopper. Other actors announced in the casting news are Jim Borstelmann, Michael McCormick, Zachary Unger and Wayne Alan Wilcox.

Producers describe the show as follows:

From the slums of London to the heights of Hollywood, “Chaplin” is the showbiz Broadway musical about the silent film legend the world couldn’t stop talking about – Charlie Chaplin. The brand new 24-person musical reveals the man behind the legend, the undeniable genius that forever changed the way America went to the movies.

The musical will play at the Barrymore Theatre. Previews will begin August 21, and opening night is scheduled for September 10. The music and lyrics for the new production are written by Christopher Curtis, and Thomas Meehan wrote the book. “Chaplin” will be produced by Rich Entertainment Group, Roy Gabay, and John and Claire Caudwell. More producers are expected to be announced in the near future.

Noll is perhaps best known for her Tony-nominated role of Mother in the revival or “Ragtime.” Mackey recently filled the role of Hope in Broadway’s “Anything Goes,” and she also played the role of Glinda in Broadway and Los Angeles productions of “Wicked.” Colella is a Broadway veteran and has appeared in “Urban Cowboy” and “High Fidelity,” among others.

McClure originated the role of Chaplin at the La Jolla Playhouse. He also appeared in “Avenue Q.”