Rachel Zegler’s ‘Evita’ Revival at London Palladium Hailed by Critics

London, UK – Critics have overwhelmingly praised director Jamie Lloyd’s ambitious new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s seminal musical, EVITA, which premiered at the historic London Palladium. Reviews for the highly anticipated revival were officially released on July 2, 2025, highlighting its dynamic energy, innovative staging, and the standout performance of its leading lady, Golden Globe winner Rachel Zegler, in the iconic role of Eva Perón.

This reimagined take on the classic musical, helmed by the acclaimed Jamie Lloyd, is set to captivate audiences at the London Palladium through September 6, 2025. The production features a distinguished cast alongside Zegler, marking a significant moment in London’s vibrant West End theatre scene.

A Reimagined Vision on a Grand Stage

Jamie Lloyd, known for his distinctive and often minimalist approach to classic texts and musicals, brings his unique vision to EVITA. The production is staged at the London Palladium, a venue synonymous with theatrical grandeur and capable of housing large-scale musicals. Lloyd’s direction aims to offer a fresh perspective on the narrative of Eva Perón’s meteoric rise to power and ultimate legacy, blending sharp political commentary with intense emotional depth. The reviews released on July 2, 2025, suggest that this reimagining has largely succeeded in delivering a potent and compelling theatrical experience.

Central Performances Draw Critical Acclaim

The cast assembled for this production has garnered significant attention, particularly the leads. Rachel Zegler, the Golden Globe-winning actress known for her roles in film, takes on the challenging lead role of Eva Perón. Early reviews cited in the round-up specifically lauded her portrayal as “brilliant and unsentimental,” suggesting a nuanced and powerful performance that avoids common theatrical tropes associated with the character.

Making his significant West End debut in the production is Diego Andres Rodriguez as Che, the cynical revolutionary narrator figure. His performance has been noted as a key component of the show’s dynamic. The principal cast also includes James Olivas as Juan Perón, Eva’s powerful military husband; Aaron Lee Lambert in the role of Agustín Magaldi, the tango singer with whom Eva has her first affair; and Bella Brown, who performs as The Mistress and also serves as the Alternate Eva.

Critical Consensus: An “All-Time Great Revival”

The initial wave of critical responses positions Lloyd’s EVITA as a major theatrical event. One prominent review cited within the round-up hailed the production unequivocally as “an all-time great revival.” This high praise underscores the critical success achieved by Lloyd and his creative team.

Specific elements of the production were singled out for commendation. Beyond Zegler’s central performance, the choreography by Fabian Aloise was described as “phenomenal,” indicating a physically dynamic and visually striking interpretation of the musical’s iconic movement sequences. The overall energy and intensity of the production were also frequently mentioned, characterized as “dynamic and intense energy,” suggesting a relentless pace and emotional power that resonates with critics.

Musical Numbers Highlighted

A musical’s success often hinges on the delivery of its most famous songs, and reviewers highlighted several key numbers from Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s memorable score. Among those specifically mentioned were the poignant ballad “You Must Love Me,” the melancholic “Another Suitcase in Another Hall” (often sung by The Mistress), the politically charged opening number “Oh! What A Circus,” and, of course, the anthemic masterpiece “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina.” The positive reception suggests these pivotal moments in the narrative are effectively delivered within the context of Lloyd’s staging.

Looking Ahead

With reviews released on July 2, 2025, solidifying the production’s critical standing, the EVITA revival featuring Rachel Zegler and directed by Jamie Lloyd appears set for a successful run. The show continues its engagement at the London Palladium until its scheduled closing date on September 6, 2025, offering audiences an opportunity to experience a highly praised new interpretation of this enduring musical theatre work.