Rachel Zegler has officially made her grand return to the stage—this time on London’s iconic West End. The West Side Story star is currently taking on the powerhouse role of Eva Perón in Evita at the London Palladium for a limited 12-week run, and the 23-year-old actress isn’t just making waves inside the theatre—she’s drawing major crowds outside, too.
Each night, Rachel performs the show’s signature number, “Don’t Cry For Me Argentina,” from the theatre’s actual balcony, mirroring the moment in the musical when Eva addresses the people of Argentina from the Presidential Palace. It’s not just dramatic—it’s also gone viral.
While earlier clips from rehearsals hinted at the outdoor performance, fans weren’t sure if it was for a promo or actually part of the show. Now that the show’s live, it’s clear—it’s both bold and brilliant. However, not everyone’s thrilled.
Some audience members inside the theatre have raised concerns because during that emotional number, they’re watching a live video feed of Rachel outside rather than seeing her perform it on stage. Still, many fans and theatre critics alike are praising the creative choice.
One viewer took to X (formerly Twitter), writing: “Absolutely stunning idea and a beautiful symbol – while the rich sit inside the theatre watching from the screen, Evita is outside on the balcony of the theatre addressing all those who can’t afford to go to the theatre and/or are living on the streets of London.”
Another fan chimed in with, “Actually doing the balcony scene from Evita on a balcony performing outside to the people who can’t afford to see her perform is such a great decision from the director.”
Even What’s On Stage backed the decision, noting, “In the context of the show, the delivery totally makes sense. Following Perón’s election, Eva sings the song while addressing her adoring supporters from the balcony of the Presidential Palace, asserting that the people of her country are her true calling amidst the fame and glory.”
So if you’re in London and want to catch that magical moment—no ticket needed—just swing by the theatre around 9PM and look up. Rachel Zegler will be there, belting her heart out to the streets of London.
