Reppin 5.1: Karen Olivo

I sign off every episode of Reppin with “Stand Up and Represent.” My next guest truly LIVES this mantra. Karen Olivo is a powerhouse talent. They’re an American stage and television actor, theater educator, and singer. In 2008 Karen originated the role of Vanessa in In The Heights on Broadway. The following year, they won the 2009 Tony Award for Best Featured Actress In A Musical for their performance as Anita in a revival of West Side Story. They are the first and only actor to win a Tony award for a performance in West Side Story. From 2016 to 2017, Olivo portrayed the role of Angelica Schuler in the Chicago production of Hamilton 2019, Olivo originated the lead role of Satine in the stage adaptation of Moulin Rouge on Broadway and was nominated for the 2020 Tony Award For Best Actress in a Musical. With this incredible, illustrious career, Karen risked it ALL when they publicly spoke out against a very powerful and influential producer. We’ve all encountered bullies and difficult bosses-but would YOU have the courage, truth —and readiness to do what Karen did? Learn more about this talented, remarkable person and where they draw their strength from. Find out how they’re fighting to ensure civility, kindness and community is present today and for those who follow. Karen’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/karenolivo Karen’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenolivo76/?hl=en Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices