The Woman In White: Maria Friedman to take six week medical leave.

Maria Friedman, currently starring in The Woman In White on Broadway, will take a six week medical leave of absence beginning the 12 Feb to complete her cancer treatment. Miss Friedman was diagnosed with stage one breast cancer in November and has undergone two surgeries while continuing in the demanding role.

Judy Kuhn will play the leading role of Marian Halcombe from the 14 Feb - 26 Mar 2006. Maria Friedman, winner of three Olivier Awards for her portrayal of the role in London, will return to the production on the 28 March 2006.

Kuhn, widely acclaimed for creating roles in the original Broadway productions of Les Miserables, Rags and Chess among others, will assume the leading role of Marian Halcombe, a care-free woman of privilege who proves unexpectedly fearless when she and her beloved sister are in jeopardy.

Producer Bob Boyett said, "While Maria was eager to remain in the show and perform as much as her health allowed, we prevailed upon her to take this time to complete her treatment and return at the end of March. We are thrilled that Judy Kuhn, an extraordinary Broadway actress, was available to play this role."

The Woman In White is directed by Trevor Nunn and features music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, lyrics by David Zippel and a book by Charlotte Jones.

The Woman In White opened at the Marquis Theatre on the 17 Nov 2005, following previews from the 28 Oct. The musical is currently booking to the 25 Jun 2006.