Jacquelyn Holland-Wright is set to make a heartfelt return to her roots in Hawaii this summer, taking a break from her leading role in the acclaimed musical Menopause the Musical at Harrah’s on the Las Vegas Strip.
She will perform as Rose in Gypsy from August 8 to August 24, with proceeds benefiting the I’m A Bright Kid Foundation.
Originally from Kailua, Hawaii, Jacquelyn is a proud graduate of James B. Castle High School and holds the distinction of being one of the original “Bright Kids.”
Her journey in theater began in 1977 when she made her stage debut as young Gretl in The Sound of Music, under the guidance of the late Ron Bright, a renowned educator and director.
In a full-circle moment, Jacquelyn will reprise the same role of Rose that Ron cast her in during his beloved production of Gypsy in 1987.
This performance holds significant emotional weight for Jacquelyn, especially following the passing of her high school best friend and original “Bright Kid,” Jade Stice.
The show is set to open on August 8, which would have been Jade’s 55th birthday, and 2025 will mark 40 years since they shared the stage together in Gypsy during their senior year of high school.
Gypsy, which premiered on Broadway on May 21, 1959, tells the story of Rose, a relentless stage mother determined to push her daughters, June and Louise, into the spotlight of vaudeville and later burlesque.
The musical delves into themes of ambition, fame, and the complex dynamics of mother-daughter relationships.
Since 2015, Jacquelyn has captivated audiences as a standout Soap Star in Menopause The Musical, which holds the title of the longest-running musical in Las Vegas.
Her illustrious career includes an impressive roster of productions.
Jacquelyn was the original lead in the world premiere of Sudoku The Musical, showcased her comedic talent as Carolyn in Divorce Party, and starred alongside Rick Springfield in EFX.
She has also headlined Tease and been a featured singer for Wayne Newton, including his first USO Tour following the events of September 11.
Throughout her career, she has had the privilege of performing with notable icons, including Ruth Pointer, Cindy Williams, Neil McCoy, Jessica Simpson, Shaggy, Jennifer Hudson, and Rob Schneider.
Reflecting on her unexpected yet fortuitous move to Las Vegas, Jacquelyn shares, “I was working on cruise ships and based in Los Angeles when I stumbled upon an audition notice for EFX.”
As fate would have it, her boyfriend’s green card was expiring, prompting a spontaneous decision to drive to Vegas and audition while getting married.
She quips about racing to a wedding chapel and returning in time for a callback, ultimately securing the job that changed her career trajectory.
“That gig ultimately led me to take over the role opposite Rick Springfield, and years later, I was cast as Donna in Mamma Mia! at Mandalay Bay, the same role my predecessor from EFX had transitioned to before me. Life has a funny way of weaving things together,” she remarked.
In 2019, Jacquelyn debuted her concert, Anyway, alongside Dr. Philip Fortenberry, a world-renowned pianist, and composer Keith Thompson at The Smith Center for the Performing Arts.
The concert aimed to raise funds and awareness for canine cancer research, reflecting her passion for animal health.
Jacquelyn is a dedicated advocate for advanced cancer treatments for pets and actively supports the Washington State University School of Veterinary Medicine.
In addition to her performances, Jacquelyn has contributed to the arts by volunteering as a judge and presenter for master classes at The Smith Center’s Nevada High School Musical Theater Awards.
This regional program is part of the National Jimmy Awards in New York City and recognizes the talented students involved in various aspects of musical theater.
Beyond her accomplishments as a mother, actress, voice-over artist, singer, and acting coach, she remains a proud member of the Actors Equity Association.
For fans eager to follow Jacquelyn’s journey, more information is available at jacquelynhollandwright.com.
You can also find her on social media platforms: Facebook @Jacquelyn-Holland-Wright and Instagram @Jac_holland_wright and @hawaiijac.
Photo by Jenna Leigh of Killer Imaging.
image source from：broadwayworld
