"Josephine” by theatre luminary Jérôme Savary is a tribute to the life and work of celebrated Afro- American singer Josephine Baker, the world’s first black star of cabaret and film. New Jersey-born Ni- colle Rochelle stars as Josephine Baker in the incredibly successful pro- duction which premieres in Vienna tonight.
Rochelle was born to a mother of Caribbean origin and a light-skinned US American father. Like Baker, Rochelle was confron- ted with racism throughout her life.
"People say certain things or stereotype me. It will always exist. Nowa- days, it might be more subtle - which makes it harder to recognise and realise,” she says. But spea- king about her work, her eyes start to sparkle and the words gush out like a waterfall.
"I just love what I’m doing and this is also what the show is about: having a good time and being happy,” Rochelle, who speaks five languages, says.
"Josephine” was staged in Barcelona, Copenhagen and Paris before coming to Vienna. "The response from the audience was great everywhere,” Rochelle says.
Rochelle has no trouble justifying the honour of being cast in the leading role. She recalls: "I started studying her life 15 years ago. When I learned about her life, I kind of imm diately connected to her - I think it’s my destiny to play this role!”
She says proudly: "People tell me I’ve got a similar voice. I am similar to her in many regards - I think I look like her quite a bit.”
It seems the 30-year-old was destined to become a musical performer.
"I started singing and dancing at the age of five. I got a manager when I was eight," Rochelle says. "I soon got cameo roles in various shows and TV productions. I’ve been on stage with Ringo Starr! And I had a small part in the Bill Cosby Show as a friend of the family.”
Speaking about her child- hood, Rochelle reminisces: "I’ve always been extroverted. I ran around the house with nothing on, asking my dad whether my boobs have grown. I’ve just never been embarrassed about anything I have done or about what happened to me.”
This leads to the question of whether she will be seen topless in the new show - as it was "Black Pearl” Josephine Baker’s controversial trademark. Finally, the stream of chat ends, as Rochelle stutters: "I will be... almost - as good as. I can’t predict it. It depends on how things go on stage - just come and see the show to find out!"
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