Performer and choreographer Edie Cowan passed away May 22, after an extended struggle with lymphoma. She was 83. The news was confirmed to 半岛体育 by friend Barbara Carroll.
A native New Yorker, Ms. Cowan was a member of the original Broadway company of Annie, understudying the role of Lily St. Regis while originating the roles of Daddy Warbucks' housekeeper Mrs. Pugh (who comes to take Annie's tray away when she's through), and the singing radio sister Connie Boylan. She later toured Annie across the country in the role of Lily St. Regis. Elsewhere on Broadway, she appeared in Sherry!, and the original production of Funny Girl.
As a choreographer, she did the original musical staging for the original Off-Broadway production of Little Shop of Horrors, bringing Skid Row to life first at the WPA Theatre, and later at the Orpheum. For many years, she worked internationally under the auspices of the United States State Department, directing and choreographing across the globe.
Her television appearances included work on Law & Order: Criminal Intent, Little Voice, and The Annie Christmas TV Special. She also appeared in the film The Intern alongside Robert DeNiro.
Ms. Cowan served on the Actors Equity Council, and was a member of the Society of Choreographers and Directors and the League of Professional Theater Women. She is survived by her sister, Sybil Moser; her brother, Sam Cohen; her nieces, Serena and Lauren Moser; nephews, Danny and Gary Cohen; and great-nephews Alex and Alejandro.
