Marjorie Johnson replaces Leslie Uggams in Dot

Vineyard's Artistic Directors Douglas Aibel and Sarah Stern have announced that Marjorie Johnson will replace previously announced Tony and Emmy Award-winner Leslie Uggams in the NY premiere of Dot, written by Tony nominee Colman Domingo and directed by five-time Tony winner Susan Stroman.

Previews begin at the Vineyard Theatre on 4 February 2016, before an official opening on 23 February and a limited engagement through to 13 March 2016.

Ms. Johnson originated the title role at its world premiere at the Actors Theatre of Louisville's Humana Festival earlier this year. She previously appeared on Broadway in 'The Little Foxes' and off-Broadway in 'Hoodoo Love,' 'M: The Mandela Saga,' and 'The House of Bernarda Alba.'

Ms. Uggams had to withdraw from the production due to a scheduling conflict, after accepting a recurring TV role.

In addition, Finnerty Steeves has also been added to the cast which now includes Marjorie Johnson (Dot), Colin Hanlon (Adam), Finnerty Steeves (Jackie), Libya V. Pugh (Averie), Michael Rosen (Fidel), Sharon Washington (Shelly) and Stephen Conrad Moore (Donnie).

Synopsis: "Dot concerns what happens when family matriarch Dotty and her three adult children gather for the holidays with more than exchanging presents on their minds. As Dotty struggles to navigate life with dementia, her children fight to balance care for their mother and care for themselves. A testament to the enduring bonds of family, this hilarious and moving new play grapples unforgettably with aging parents, midlife crises, and the heart of an inner city neighborhood."

Colman Domingo's previous play 'A Boy and His Soul' ran at the Vineyard Theatre in 2009. He is best-known as an actor on both Broadway and off-Broadway stages, providing commanding performances in 'Passing Strange' and 'The Scottsboro Boys.'

- by Tom Millward