Rachel Zegler, known for her recent role in the London Palladium revival of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Evita, delivered a memorable performance of the musical’s signature song on the BBC show Strictly Come Dancing. Her appearance brought renewed attention to the classic anthem Don’t Cry for Me Argentina, captivating audiences with her powerful rendition.
Rachel Zegler’s Evita Performance Reaches New Audiences
The actress and singer showcased her talent on the BBC program, giving viewers a chance to experience the stirring ballad live. Zegler’s version of Don’t Cry for Me Argentina is also featured on the new 10-track cast album for the London revival, produced under Jamie Lloyd’s direction, which is available on all major streaming platforms. Fans can look forward to a complete cast recording featuring every song from the show, set for release in 2026.
Released by The Other Songs label, Zegler’s performance on the album has resonated strongly, with the single reaching the top position on the official U.K. Vinyl Singles Chart on three separate occasions. The collection also includes beloved musical numbers such as Oh What A Circus, Buenos Aires, I’d Be Surprisingly Good for You, Another Suitcase in Another Hall, A New Argentina, High Flying Adored, and You Must Love Me, a track originally composed for the 1996 film adaptation starring Madonna.
Cast and Musical Highlights of the Latest Evita Revival
Alongside Rachel Zegler, the album features performances from Diego Andres Rodriguez, James Olivas, Aaron Lee Lambert, and Bella Brown, among others. The production traces the life of Eva Duarte, an illegitimate girl from Los Toldos who rose to fame as an actress before becoming the First Lady of Argentina. The musical chronicles her ascent to political prominence and her tragic death from cancer at age 33.
The character’s story is told through a score rich with emotional and dramatic songs, including Don’t Cry for Me Argentina, Buenos Aires, Rainbow High, and High Flying Adored. This through-sung musical has established itself as a staple in theatrical repertoire, blending historical narrative with lyrical intensity.
The Enduring Legacy of Evita in Theatre and Film
Evita first appeared in 1976 as a two-LP studio album featuring Julie Covington as the titular character and Colm Wilkinson as Che. Harold Prince’s stage direction brought prominence to the musical with London and New York productions, launching the careers of stars such as Elaine Paige in London and Mandy Patinkin with Patti LuPone on Broadway. The latter won seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical.
Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, who had previously collaborated on Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Jesus Christ Superstar, concluded their major joint projects with Evita. The musical was later adapted into a 1996 film starring Madonna, Antonio Banderas, and Jonathan Pryce.
Recent Productions and Revival Attempts in the U.S. and U.K.
The last Broadway revival of Evita occurred in 2012, featuring Elena Roger and Ricky Martin. Since then, efforts to return the show to the Main Stem have included a 2019 staging at City Center in New York, directed by Sammi Cannold, where the role of Eva was shared by Solea Pfeiffer and Maia Reficco. This production was also presented in Washington, D.C., and Cambridge, Massachusetts, but no further plans for a Broadway revival have been announced.
In 2019, director Jamie Lloyd staged Evita at the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, reviving interest in the show within London’s theatre scene. This West End revival eventually led to the cast recording featuring Rachel Zegler.
Notable Performers and Ensemble Members in the Current Evita
The cast of the London Palladium production includes Sally Frith, Diego Andres Rodriguez, Aaron Lee Lambert, Mireia Mambo, Natasha Leaver, Dianté Lodge, James Olivas, Carl Au, Damian Buhagiar, and DeAngelo Jones. Their combined efforts support Zegler’s compelling portrayal of Eva Duarte and contribute to the musical’s vibrant narrative on stage.
Next Steps and Future Releases for Evita Fans
With the full cast recording scheduled for 2026, audiences will have the opportunity to experience the complete score from this acclaimed revival. Rachel Zegler’s appearance on Strictly and the album release have reignited interest in Evita, highlighting the musical’s continued emotional impact and cultural significance. As the show remains fresh in public memory, further productions and adaptations may follow, continuing the legacy of this iconic work.
“Don’t Cry for Me Argentina has always been a role close to my heart, and to bring it to a new generation is truly special.”
?Rachel Zegler, Actress and Singer
“Jamie Lloyd’s direction has breathed new life into Evita, presenting the story with both respect and innovation.”
?Aaron Lee Lambert, Cast Member
