**Deborah Cox Reflects on Her Unique Connection with Céline Dion in ‘Titanique’**
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Broadway is currently buzzing with excitement as Deborah Cox takes the stage in the musical ‘Titanique’, a comedic rendition of the iconic Titanic story viewed through the eyes of Canadian superstar Céline Dion. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Cox has shared insights into her impressive career and her special connection with Dion that dates back to the early ’90s.
Cox, a celebrated Grammy-nominated artist and actress, recounts her experience performing as a background vocalist for Céline Dion. “I toured with her for a year,” she recalls, highlighting a pivotal moment in her journey as a musician. The collaboration not only allowed her to hone her vocal skills but also gave her a front-row seat to observe Dion’s remarkable work ethic. “She was someone to watch, especially when it came to her discipline and the way she took care of her voice,” Cox states.
Reflecting on that formative partnership, Cox describes how her time with Dion helped shape her artistic identity. After a year on the road, she opted to leave the tour, seeking to carve her own path in the music industry. Just six months later, she secured a meeting with the renowned record producer Clive Davis, leading to her signing with Arista Records. “This show is a real full circle moment for me as an artist and performer,” she says, expressing gratitude for the journey that has led her back to Broadway.
In her role as the “Unsinkable Molly Brown”, Cox has embraced the comedic elements of ‘Titanique’, which first premiered off-Broadway in 2022. The show combines Dion’s beloved music with a humorous take on the classic film, providing a fresh perspective that has resonated with audiences. Despite her involvement, Cox admits she had never actually seen the production prior to signing on. “I was aware of it through discussions in the community, but I hadn’t seen it,” she reveals.
The decision to join ‘Titanique’ was buoyed by Cox’s ambition to undertake challenging roles that push her boundaries. She previously starred as Glinda the Good Witch in the 2025 revival of ‘The Wiz’, and now she finds herself enjoying the nuances of musical comedy. “I wanted something very different to come back to Broadway,” she explains. With a background enriched by the likes of comedic greats Whoopi Goldberg and Carol Burnett, she feels a strong connection to the show’s playful spirit.
The ensemble cast of ‘Titanique’ includes notable names such as Jim Parsons, Melissa Barrera, and Frankie Grande, all contributing to what Cox describes as an “all-star cast.” With each member bringing their unique flair to the performance, the atmosphere is filled with camaraderie and enthusiasm. “We’re having a good time,” Cox affirms, highlighting the joy that fuels their nightly performances.
As the show continues its run at the St. James Theatre in New York City, Cox is already contemplating her next moves following the limited engagement. “Definitely more music,” she leads, indicating her desire to explore new creative avenues beyond the stage. Cox explained that being involved in theatrical productions often reignites her inspiration for music and performance, driving her to pursue fresh ideas and projects.
While ‘Titanique’ captures audience hearts with laughter and nostalgia, it also stands as a testament to the evolving journey of Deborah Cox—a journey that has brought her back to the spotlight, ready to embrace new challenges and celebrate the connections she has with fellow artists. In a world where comedy and music converge, Cox embraces every moment as she dreams up the future, with the spirit of Céline Dion ever-present in her pursuits.
As the curtain rises on each performance, Cox pays homage to her early influences and paves the way for the next chapter in her expansive career, proving that for her, the journey continues to be as exciting as the destination.