Lettie Lutz

Lettie Lutz is the bearded lady, Barnum's first recruit, and the heart of the circus troupe. She starts hidden and ashamed, but becomes the voice that speaks for everyone who has ever been told they do not belong. When she steps forward to sing This Is Me, it is the most powerful moment in the show.

Personality for Dance

Lettie begins small. She hides behind others, keeps her head down, turns away from the audience. Her movement is apologetic, taking up as little space as possible. The transformation happens in This Is Me. She plants her feet, lifts her chin, and suddenly her movement fills the entire stage. She punches the air, stomps the ground, and opens her arms wide enough to hold everyone. After that number, Lettie never shrinks again. Every entrance is confident, every gesture is deliberate. The dancer playing Lettie needs to commit fully to both the hiding and the standing tall. If one side is missing, the whole arc falls flat.

The Outfit

Top

A rich jewel-toned bodice or corset top in deep purple, emerald green, or burgundy. Velvet fabric reads beautifully under stage lights. Gold lacing or embroidery down the front adds circus grandeur. Over the top, a matching bolero jacket or shrug for early scenes that gets removed during This Is Me to reveal the full bodice. The reveal marks the moment she stops hiding.

Bottom

A full, flowing skirt in matching jewel tones that hits below the knee. Layers of tulle or chiffon underneath give it volume and movement. The skirt should swirl on turns and settle dramatically on sudden stops. High waist to create a strong silhouette.

Accessories

Bold gold statement jewelry. A chunky necklace, large earrings, stacked bracelets. Lettie is not subtle after her transformation. More is more. For early hiding scenes, keep the jewelry hidden under the bolero and reveal it as part of the costume arc. A fabric flower or feather pinned in the hair adds height and drama.

Shoes

Low-heeled character shoes or boots in black or dark brown. Lettie needs shoes that ground her, literally. The stomping in This Is Me needs to make noise and feel powerful. Avoid anything too delicate. A short boot with a solid heel works perfectly.

Hair

Big, voluminous hair worn down and free. Curls, waves, or natural texture. The hair should take up space and move when she moves. It is part of the character's presence. Pin it back partially for early scenes and let it loose during This Is Me. Volume is the goal.

Special Details

The bolero or shrug removal during This Is Me is a key costume moment. Rehearse it so it comes off cleanly in one motion, timed to a specific beat in the music. A stagehand in the wings can grab it, or Lettie can toss it downstage with intention. The audience should feel the weight of that moment.

Movement Tips

This Is Me is the number that defines this role. Build the choreography as a journey from hiding to triumph. Start at the back of the stage or partially behind a set piece. The first verse is contained, almost whispered through movement. By the first chorus, she is center stage. By the final chorus, she is leading the entire company.
Stomps and grounded movement are Lettie's signature. Her power comes from the floor up. Heavy, deliberate foot strikes, strong plies, fists clenched and punching upward. Avoid floaty or delicate choreography for this character. Everything should feel rooted and intentional.
In Come Alive, Lettie is one of the first to join Barnum. Choreograph her entrance as a moment of decision. She hesitates, looks back, then walks forward and does not look back again. That single walk forward sets up everything that comes later.
During The Greatest Show, Lettie should be visible as a leader within the ensemble. Give her a featured eight-count or a moment where the group follows her lead. She has earned that position in the story.
In From Now On, Lettie is part of the homecoming. She is welcoming Barnum back, but on her terms. Her movement should be open and generous but also strong. She forgives, but she does not forget. Grounded walks, open arms, steady eye contact with Barnum.

Age Recommendations

Best for ages 12-18. This role is less about technical dance skill and more about stage presence, emotional commitment, and the ability to command a room. Cast your most powerful performer, regardless of their technical level. A strong singer-dancer is ideal since This Is Me often features live or highlighted vocals. Younger dancers aged 10-11 with natural confidence and strong performance quality can absolutely carry this role.