Actor David McDonald, who originated roles in the original Broadway productions of Side Show and Doctor Zhivago, passed away July 13. He was 63.
Born January 18, 1959, Mr. McDonald was a familiar figure New York theatregoers, where his skills as an understudy were prized. He understudied both Javert and Thénardier in the original Broadway production of Les Misérables, Terry Connor in Side Show, Mr. Simmons in Memphis, and Viktor Komarovsky in Dr. Zhivago. As a touring performer, he assumed the role of Javert full time and played the patriarch Mr. Price in the national tour of Kinky Boots.
Elsewhere on Broadway, he was a part of the Roundabout Theatre Company revival of Bye Bye Birdie, and played Sam Carmichael in the long running hit Mamma Mia opposite Carolee Carmello.
Mr. McDonald is survived by his two children, mother Barbara, sister Suzanne, brother Don, and his spouse, Pilar Millhollen.
A memorial tribute will be held July 31 at 10:30 AM in Riverside Memorial Chapel in New York City. In honor and celebration of his career and love for musical theatre, all are welcome to attend his musical tribute.
