NEW YORK — LaChanze plans to return to Broadway for the first time since winning a Tony in 2006 for "The Color Purple."

Producers of "If/Then" said Monday that the singer and actress will star opposite Idina Menzel in the new musical that reunites the creative forces behind "Next to Normal" — music by Tom Kitt, story by Brian Yorkey and direction by Michael Greif.

Previews begin March 4 at the Richard Rodgers Theatre. Opening night is set for March 27.

The musical will center on the character of Elizabeth, who on the verge of turning 40, moves to New York with the hope of a new life. LaChanze, whose credits include "Ragtime" and "Company," will play a teacher and new neighbor of Elizabeth, played by Menzel.