Pair back as The Heights to return to Sydney

Olivia Vasquez and Ryan Gonzalez met while performing the Lin-Manuel Miranda musical In The Heights in 2018 – and now it is back in the Sydney Opera House from July 20 to August 25.

Ryan Gonzalez and Olivia Vasquez will star in musical In The Heights. Picture: Daniel Boud

Olivia Vasquez and Ryan Gonzalez met while performing the Lin-Manuel Miranda musical In The Heights back in 2018 – and the pair has been longing for it to return.

Now The Sunday Telegraph can exclusively reveal it is – playing in the Sydney Opera House on a limited run, from July 20 to August 25.

“I feel like we manifested it,” says Olivia, 28.

In The Heights, the Hamilton creator’s breakthrough production, debuted on Broadway in 2008 and was a smash hit – nominated for 13 Tony Awards, it won four, including Best Musical.

The musical is a famously fun fusion of Latin American music and dance. Which is all perfect for Olivia and Ryan, who previously played lead characters Vanessa and Usnavi in a popular 2018 production at Sydney’s Hayes Theatre.

“We have a genuine, beautiful connection,” says Olivia. “I’m very excited to do Vanessa again.”

The film version attracted diversity controversy but Olivia and Ryan say they are proud of the casting in this production.

“This show is what Australia and Sydney needs right now. We have authentic casting and it’s about the Latino diaspora through the Australian lens. I feel really represented, which is a beautiful feeling,” says Olivia.

“Even since we did it in 2018, there have been changes behind the scenes, as well as casting. I’m really glad we’re able to share this story in 2024, the way it should be,” she says.

Tickets go on pre-sale on Tuesday, sydneyoperahouse.com

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