John Raitt may be best known for his Broadway musical roles, including Carousel and Oklahoma! or he may actually be best known as Bonnie Raitt’s father. Raitt appeared at the Historic Elitch Theatre three times: 1976’s Shenandoah, 1977’s I Do! I Do!, and 1979’s Man of La Mancha.
John Raitt (1917–2005) was a celebrated American actor and baritone whose powerful voice and commanding presence made him a defining leading man of Broadway’s Golden Age. He is best remembered for originating iconic roles in Carousel (Billy Bigelow), Oklahoma! (Curly), The Pajama Game (Sid Sorokin), and Annie Get Your Gun (Frank Butler), performances that helped shape the sound and style of mid-20th-century American musical theatre.
In 1945 Carousel opened on Broadway, with John Raitt originating the role of Billy Bigelow — a role for which he would receive a Theatre World Award.
Seasons at the Theatre
- 1976
- 1977
- 1979
Elitch Theatre Productions/Roles:
Notable Roles, Awards, and Other Work:
- Billy Bigelow — Carousel (Broadway, 1945; original cast)
- Curly McLain — Oklahoma! (Broadway, revival; also widely associated with the role in concert and touring productions)
- Frank Butler — Annie Get Your Gun (Broadway revival; opposite his wife, Doris Day, in later adaptations of the role)
- Sid Sorokin — The Pajama Game (Broadway, 1954; original cast)
- Sam Evans — Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (Broadway musical adaptation, 1982)
- Magnus Muldoon — Little Mary Sunshine (Broadway, 1962)
Elitch Theatre Connections:
Wikipedia Link:
