Roger Rees to Take Leave From Broadway's The Visit, Starring Chita Rivera

Tony winner Roger Rees has taken a leave from his starring role in the Broadway musical The Visit at the Lyceum Theatre. During his absence, Tom Nelis (who usually plays the role of the valet Rudi) has stepped into the role of Anton Schell.

"Roger Rees is undergoing a treatment for a medical condition and while the prognosis is bright, he’s currently unable to perform in the show," said producer Tom Kirdahy in a statement. "He’ll be back onstage as soon as he can and we can’t wait to welcome him back."

One of the final musicals by the legendary songwriting duo John Kander and Fred Ebb, The Visit tells the story of Claire Zachanassian, played by 2015 Tony and Drama Desk nominee Chita Rivera, the oft-widowed richest woman in the world who returns to the hardship-stricken town of her birth ready to spread her wealth, but with a terrible price involving her former lover, Anton Schell. Based on the 1956 play by Friedrich Dürrenmatt, The Visit features a book by Terrence McNally, direction by John Doyle, and choreography by Graciela Daniele.

The Visit also stars Jason Danieley, Matthew Deming, Diana Dimarzio, David Garrison, Rick Holmes, Chris Newcomer, Aaron Ramey, Timothy Shew, Michelle Veintimilla, George Abud, Mary Beth Peil, Elena Shaddow, and John Riddle. The show began previews March 26 and opened on April 23 at the Lyceum Theatre, after originating at the Williamstown Theatre Festival in 2014.

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