Sanjaya Malakar Joins FRECKLEFACE STRAWBERRY 2/23

Sanjaya Malakar, who was introduced to America in 2006 as a Finalist on Season 6 of "American Idol", will make his New York stage debut in the off-Broadway hit family musical FRECKLEFACE STRAWBERRY at New World Stages.

Sanjaya joins the cast today (February 23). Sanjaya's electric personality, memorable hairstyles and amazing performances propelled him into national and international fame as perhaps one of the most iconic American Idol contestants of all time. Since the show and tour finished, he has written a book, "Dancing to the Music in My Head", released an EP, travelled and toured around the world and currently he is also writing and recording his own original music for a full length album "Life-Love-Music".

Sanja joins the Freckleface company which currently stars Remy Zaken as Strawberryalong with Julia Bray, Andrew Cristi, Linda Gabler, Kimiko Glenn and Mykal Kilgore. The show is based on the popular children's book by Julianne Moore and has music and lyrics by Gary Kupper and book by Kupper and Rose Caiola. Buddy Crutchfield directs with GailPennington Crutchfield providing choreography.

The musical opened in September of 2010 to rave reviews. The message of the show isabout tolerance and understanding and to accept people for who and what they are.

Feeling comfortable in your own skin no matter if you have freckles and red hair is what Strawberry and her friends learn through the 70 minute fun-packed, music-filled show for the entire family.

NEW WORLD STAGES is located at 340 West 50 th Street between 8 th and 9 th Avenues. Fortickets and information go to www.telecharge.com or call 212 239-6200. www.frecklfacethemusical.com