Tony Award-winning producer and performer LaChanze has announced the launch of LaChanze Productions (LCP). The new multimedia production company will develop and produce original works of new and underrepresented artists. Inclusivity will be at the forefront of LCP, with hopes of increasing theater accessibility.
“Since 2009, I have wanted a seat on the other side of the table,” LaChanze said in a statement. “As a career theater professional, I have had the good fortune to witness all aspects of what it takes to build a successful theatrical production. My love for this industry coupled with my advocacy to develop new audiences has inspired me to launch LaChanze Productions. I hope to bring a unique perspective to each project we produce and I look forward to continuing to build this company, nurture new productions and bring on other passionate people to join me in this endeavor.”
LaChanze is the winner of three Tony Awards. She was awarded her first in 2006 for Best Leading Actress in a Musical for creating the role of Celie in “The Color Purple.” She received additional Tony nominations for her turns in 1990’s “Once on This Island,” 2018’s “Summer” and 2021’s “Trouble in Mind.” LaChanze won two more Tonys in 2023 for her work as a co-producer of 2022’s “Kimberly Akimbo” and the 2022 revival of “Topdog/Underdog.” She is currently nominated for the 2024 Best Play Tony for “Jaja’s African Hair Braiding” and the 2024 Best Musical Tony for “The Outsiders.”
One of LCP’s inaugural productions, Celeste Bradford Walker’s play “Reunion in Bartersville,” will offer a private industry reading in June. LCP is currently developing additional theater projects and hopes to broaden the scope to include film and television works.
