Ella Beatty, currently appearing in the FX series Feud: Capote vs. The Swans, will make her Broadway debut in Appropriate when the hit Branden Jacobs-Jenkins play transfers to the Belasco Theatre next month.
Beatty will take over the role of “River” from Elle Fanning, whose engagement with the Second Stage non-profit production ends when the play closes its run at the Hayes Theater on March 3. The commercial transfer at the Belasco runs from March 25 through June 23.
Beatty, the daughter of Warren Beatty and Annette Bening, plays “Kerry O’Shea” in the Gus Van Sant-directed, Ryan Murphy-produced Feud. She’ll next be seen in the A24 film If I Had Legs I’d Kick You with Rose Byrne and A$AP Rocky.
Directed by Lila Neugebauer, Appropriate stars Sarah Paulson, Corey Stoll, Michael Esper, Natalie Gold, Graham Campbell, Alyssa Emily Marvin, Lincoln Cohen and Everett Sobers.
Appropriate is produced by Ambassador Theatre Group,...
Beatty will take over the role of “River” from Elle Fanning, whose engagement with the Second Stage non-profit production ends when the play closes its run at the Hayes Theater on March 3. The commercial transfer at the Belasco runs from March 25 through June 23.
Beatty, the daughter of Warren Beatty and Annette Bening, plays “Kerry O’Shea” in the Gus Van Sant-directed, Ryan Murphy-produced Feud. She’ll next be seen in the A24 film If I Had Legs I’d Kick You with Rose Byrne and A$AP Rocky.
Directed by Lila Neugebauer, Appropriate stars Sarah Paulson, Corey Stoll, Michael Esper, Natalie Gold, Graham Campbell, Alyssa Emily Marvin, Lincoln Cohen and Everett Sobers.
Appropriate is produced by Ambassador Theatre Group,...
- 2/21/2024
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’ critically acclaimed play Appropriate, starring Sarah Paulson and Corey Stoll, will extend its limited engagement by 13 weeks with a commercial transfer from its current home at the Hayes Theatre to the Belasco Theatre, producers Second Stage announced today.
The producers cited overwhelming ticket demand for the extension. The Belasco engagement will begin March 25 and run through June 23.
With the extension, Appropriate will be running through the potentially lucrative Tony Awards season. The production is almost certain to be in the running when awards are handed out on June 16.
The production will conclude its run at the Hayes on March 3. Mother Play, the new Paula Vogel play starring Jessica Lange, begins previews at the Hayes on April 2, with an official opening date set for April 25.
The transfer engagement will feature original company members Paulson, Stoll, Michael Esper, Natalie Gold, Graham Campbell, Alyssa Emily Marvin, Lincoln Cohen and Everett Sobers.
The producers cited overwhelming ticket demand for the extension. The Belasco engagement will begin March 25 and run through June 23.
With the extension, Appropriate will be running through the potentially lucrative Tony Awards season. The production is almost certain to be in the running when awards are handed out on June 16.
The production will conclude its run at the Hayes on March 3. Mother Play, the new Paula Vogel play starring Jessica Lange, begins previews at the Hayes on April 2, with an official opening date set for April 25.
The transfer engagement will feature original company members Paulson, Stoll, Michael Esper, Natalie Gold, Graham Campbell, Alyssa Emily Marvin, Lincoln Cohen and Everett Sobers.
- 2/13/2024
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Gutenberg! The Musical! ended its Broadway run last night, but not before recouping its initial $6.75 million investment, producers have announced.
The musical starring Josh Gad and Andrew Rannells, written by Scott Brown and Anthony King, and directed by Alex Timbers, Gutenberg! recouped its investment during a 20-week Broadway run, producers said. In its final week of performances, the musical comedy set another box office record at the James Earl Jones Theatre with a weekly gross of $1,463,226.
Gutenberg! previously set the Jones Theatre box office record the week ending December 31, 2023, when it grossed $1,280,597.
After taking their final bows last night, Gad and Rannells began recording the upcoming Original Broadway Cast Album to be released this spring on Center Stage Records and Yellow Sound Label. The album will be produced and mixed by Michael Croiter, with Marcia Goldberg, and Andrew Paradis serving as Executive Producers.
Since opening on Thursday, October 12, Gutenberg! has...
The musical starring Josh Gad and Andrew Rannells, written by Scott Brown and Anthony King, and directed by Alex Timbers, Gutenberg! recouped its investment during a 20-week Broadway run, producers said. In its final week of performances, the musical comedy set another box office record at the James Earl Jones Theatre with a weekly gross of $1,463,226.
Gutenberg! previously set the Jones Theatre box office record the week ending December 31, 2023, when it grossed $1,280,597.
After taking their final bows last night, Gad and Rannells began recording the upcoming Original Broadway Cast Album to be released this spring on Center Stage Records and Yellow Sound Label. The album will be produced and mixed by Michael Croiter, with Marcia Goldberg, and Andrew Paradis serving as Executive Producers.
Since opening on Thursday, October 12, Gutenberg! has...
- 1/29/2024
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
After nearly two decades leading the Broadway League, Charlotte St. Martin is stepping down.
The League announced her Feb. 16 retirement on Tuesday, along with the news that Jason Laks, the League’s executive vice president and general counsel, will serve as acting president as the Board conducts its search for a leader.
St. Martin helmed the national trade organization representing theaters and producers for 18 years. Following her retirement, she is expected to continue on in an advisory capacity for special events through the 2024 Tony Awards.
“While there is never a good moment for an executive who has spent a great deal of time in their role to resign, it is the appropriate time for me. It is truly the most difficult decision as I love the League, the staff, and of course, the industry that we have supported,” St. Martin said in a statement. “I am very proud of our...
The League announced her Feb. 16 retirement on Tuesday, along with the news that Jason Laks, the League’s executive vice president and general counsel, will serve as acting president as the Board conducts its search for a leader.
St. Martin helmed the national trade organization representing theaters and producers for 18 years. Following her retirement, she is expected to continue on in an advisory capacity for special events through the 2024 Tony Awards.
“While there is never a good moment for an executive who has spent a great deal of time in their role to resign, it is the appropriate time for me. It is truly the most difficult decision as I love the League, the staff, and of course, the industry that we have supported,” St. Martin said in a statement. “I am very proud of our...
- 1/16/2024
- by Abbey White
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Charlotte St. Martin, whose 18-year leadership of the Broadway League has included both good times – record-setting revenue – and bad – the historic 18-month Covid shutdown – will step down from her role as President effective February 16.
In its announcement today, the League said St. Martin has “decided to retire” from the organization, but will continue to serve in an advisory capacity for special events through the 2024 Tony Awards.
Jason Laks, The League’s Executive Vice President and General Counsel, will serve as Acting President while the Board conducts an official search.
“While there is never a good moment for an executive who has spent a great deal of time in their role to resign, it is the appropriate time for me,” St. Martin said in a statement. “It is truly the most difficult decision as I love the League, the staff, and of course, the industry that we have supported. I am...
In its announcement today, the League said St. Martin has “decided to retire” from the organization, but will continue to serve in an advisory capacity for special events through the 2024 Tony Awards.
Jason Laks, The League’s Executive Vice President and General Counsel, will serve as Acting President while the Board conducts an official search.
“While there is never a good moment for an executive who has spent a great deal of time in their role to resign, it is the appropriate time for me,” St. Martin said in a statement. “It is truly the most difficult decision as I love the League, the staff, and of course, the industry that we have supported. I am...
- 1/16/2024
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Theater’s biggest stars converged on Monday morning for Variety‘s annual Business of Broadway Breakfast, fortifying themselves with coffee and frittatas on a rare day off, to celebrate a new season of plays, musicals and revivals.
The event, which was presented by City National Bank, included discussions with Daniel Radcliffe, Jonathan Groff and Lindsay Mendez. They are taking their acclaimed Off-Broadway production of “Merrily We Roll Along” to the Main Stem and hoping to redeem the Stephen Sondheim musical, which flopped when it debuted in 1981. There was also a discussion with Josh Gad and Andrew Rannells, who have reunited for the zany “Gutenberg! The Musical!,” more than a decade after “The Book of Mormon” made them household names. And a panel of prominent producers such as Greg Nobile, Kristin Caskey, Patrick Catullo, Leslie Odom Jr. and Fiona Rudin, discussed the challenges of mounting a show in a business with little margin for error.
The event, which was presented by City National Bank, included discussions with Daniel Radcliffe, Jonathan Groff and Lindsay Mendez. They are taking their acclaimed Off-Broadway production of “Merrily We Roll Along” to the Main Stem and hoping to redeem the Stephen Sondheim musical, which flopped when it debuted in 1981. There was also a discussion with Josh Gad and Andrew Rannells, who have reunited for the zany “Gutenberg! The Musical!,” more than a decade after “The Book of Mormon” made them household names. And a panel of prominent producers such as Greg Nobile, Kristin Caskey, Patrick Catullo, Leslie Odom Jr. and Fiona Rudin, discussed the challenges of mounting a show in a business with little margin for error.
- 10/2/2023
- by Rebecca Rubin and Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
The new revival of The Wiz will begin Broadway previews on March 29, 2024, at the Marquis Theatre, with an opening night set for Wednesday, April 17.
The musical will feature Wayne Brady in the title role. The Broadway dates and venue were announced today by producers Kristin Caskey, Mike Isaacson, Brian Anthony Moreland, Ambassador Theatre Group, Kandi Burruss and Todd Tucker.
The limited engagement on Broadway follows a pre-Broadway national tour that launched in Baltimore yesterday with a sold-out show (and five standing ovations). Baltimore was the site of the musical’s original world premiere nearly 50 years ago.
Related: Emmy-Winning Super Bowl Halftime Music Director Adam Blackstone Joins Broadway-Bound ‘The Wiz’ Creative Team
In addition to Brady as the Wiz, the Broadway cast will feature Nichelle Lewis as Dorothy, Deborah Cox as Glinda and Melody A. Betts as Aunt Em and Evillene, Kyle Ramar Freeman as the Lion, Phillip Johnson Richardson as the Tinman,...
The musical will feature Wayne Brady in the title role. The Broadway dates and venue were announced today by producers Kristin Caskey, Mike Isaacson, Brian Anthony Moreland, Ambassador Theatre Group, Kandi Burruss and Todd Tucker.
The limited engagement on Broadway follows a pre-Broadway national tour that launched in Baltimore yesterday with a sold-out show (and five standing ovations). Baltimore was the site of the musical’s original world premiere nearly 50 years ago.
Related: Emmy-Winning Super Bowl Halftime Music Director Adam Blackstone Joins Broadway-Bound ‘The Wiz’ Creative Team
In addition to Brady as the Wiz, the Broadway cast will feature Nichelle Lewis as Dorothy, Deborah Cox as Glinda and Melody A. Betts as Aunt Em and Evillene, Kyle Ramar Freeman as the Lion, Phillip Johnson Richardson as the Tinman,...
- 9/25/2023
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Adam Blackstone, who won a 2022 Emmy Award for his music direction of the memorable hip-hop Super Bowl Lvi Halftime Show featuring Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem and others, has joined the creative team of the Broadway-bound musical revival of The Wiz.
Blackstone has signed on as Dance Music Arranger, a position that reunites him with frequent collaborator JaQuel Knight, the show’s choreographer. (Blackstone joins the production with his associate Terence Vaughn.)
In a statement, Blackstone said the new collaboration with Knight will allow the two to “explore our own interpretation for a revival of this masterpiece.”
The announcement was made by producers Kristin Caskey, Mike Isaacson, Brian Anthony Moreland, Ambassador Theatre Group, Kandi Burruss and Todd Tucker. The Wiz will launch a national tour on September 23 in Baltimore before heading to Broadway, with Wayne Brady in the title role, for a limited engagement later in spring 2024.
“Joining The...
Blackstone has signed on as Dance Music Arranger, a position that reunites him with frequent collaborator JaQuel Knight, the show’s choreographer. (Blackstone joins the production with his associate Terence Vaughn.)
In a statement, Blackstone said the new collaboration with Knight will allow the two to “explore our own interpretation for a revival of this masterpiece.”
The announcement was made by producers Kristin Caskey, Mike Isaacson, Brian Anthony Moreland, Ambassador Theatre Group, Kandi Burruss and Todd Tucker. The Wiz will launch a national tour on September 23 in Baltimore before heading to Broadway, with Wayne Brady in the title role, for a limited engagement later in spring 2024.
“Joining The...
- 9/20/2023
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Actor-rapper Common and hip-hop artist Mc Lyte have signed on as co-producers in the all-new, Broadway-bound production of The Wiz, producers announced today.
The musical revival, which launches a national tour in Baltimore on September 23, will play a limited Broadway engagement this spring. Dates have not yet been announced.
“I am so blessed to be part of this production of The Wiz,” said Common, who appeared on Broadway last season in the acclaimed play Between Riverside and Crazy. “Theatre has always affected me in a way that reaches my soul and spirit, in some measure because I didn’t realize as a kid that I could dream big enough to be part of it.”
The Grammy winning rapper and composer who also shared an Oscar with John Legend for the song “Glory” from the 2014 film Selma, added, “This is a true dream come true as one of my favorite...
The musical revival, which launches a national tour in Baltimore on September 23, will play a limited Broadway engagement this spring. Dates have not yet been announced.
“I am so blessed to be part of this production of The Wiz,” said Common, who appeared on Broadway last season in the acclaimed play Between Riverside and Crazy. “Theatre has always affected me in a way that reaches my soul and spirit, in some measure because I didn’t realize as a kid that I could dream big enough to be part of it.”
The Grammy winning rapper and composer who also shared an Oscar with John Legend for the song “Glory” from the 2014 film Selma, added, “This is a true dream come true as one of my favorite...
- 9/12/2023
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Nichelle Lewis will portray Dorothy in the upcoming Broadway revival of The Wiz.
The Virginian actress, who was discovered on TikTok and chosen following more than 2,000 submissions for the role, was also announced by producers on Monday as the lead in the upcoming National Tour. Kicking off in Baltimore at the Hippodrome Theatre and running from Sept. 23-30, the tour will continue to previously announced cities across the U.S. before its limited run in New York.
Wayne Brady was previously announced for the role of the Wiz on Broadway, following appearances in San Francisco Golden Gate Theatre and Los Angeles (Feb. 13 – March 3), with Alan Mingo Jr. portraying the role in additional tour cities additional including Cleveland, Washington, D.C., Pittsburgh, Charlotte, Atlanta, Chicago, Des Moines, Tempe and San Diego.
The musical also stars Deborah Cox as Glinda; Melody A. Betts as Aunt Em and Evillene; Kyle Ramar Freeman as...
The Virginian actress, who was discovered on TikTok and chosen following more than 2,000 submissions for the role, was also announced by producers on Monday as the lead in the upcoming National Tour. Kicking off in Baltimore at the Hippodrome Theatre and running from Sept. 23-30, the tour will continue to previously announced cities across the U.S. before its limited run in New York.
Wayne Brady was previously announced for the role of the Wiz on Broadway, following appearances in San Francisco Golden Gate Theatre and Los Angeles (Feb. 13 – March 3), with Alan Mingo Jr. portraying the role in additional tour cities additional including Cleveland, Washington, D.C., Pittsburgh, Charlotte, Atlanta, Chicago, Des Moines, Tempe and San Diego.
The musical also stars Deborah Cox as Glinda; Melody A. Betts as Aunt Em and Evillene; Kyle Ramar Freeman as...
- 8/14/2023
- by Abbey White
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Josh Gad and Andrew Rannells, who first shared a stage in The Book of Mormon, will return to Broadway together this fall in Gutenberg! The Musical!, the Scott Brown-Anthony King musical to be directed by Alex Timbers.
The production, announced today, will begin previews Friday, September 15 at Broadway’s James Earl Jones Theatre, with an official opening on Thursday, October 12. The strictly limited 20-week engagement will play through Sunday, January 28, 2024.
“It’s been 12 years since I’ve been on a Broadway stage,” Gad said in a statement. “And after 12 years, the only person who would agree to take the stage with me again was my co-star from 12 years ago. I am grateful that Andrew Rannells said yes, because I really didn’t have the energy to do a one-man show.”
Said Rannells, “After years of relentless stalking and countless restraining orders, Josh Gad has finally gotten me to...
The production, announced today, will begin previews Friday, September 15 at Broadway’s James Earl Jones Theatre, with an official opening on Thursday, October 12. The strictly limited 20-week engagement will play through Sunday, January 28, 2024.
“It’s been 12 years since I’ve been on a Broadway stage,” Gad said in a statement. “And after 12 years, the only person who would agree to take the stage with me again was my co-star from 12 years ago. I am grateful that Andrew Rannells said yes, because I really didn’t have the energy to do a one-man show.”
Said Rannells, “After years of relentless stalking and countless restraining orders, Josh Gad has finally gotten me to...
- 6/22/2023
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Recording artist Deborah Cox and Chicago-based actress and singer Melody A. Betts have joined the Broadway-bound cast of The Wiz, with Cox taking the role of Glinda and Betts cast as Aunt Em and Evillene.
Cox and Betts join the previously announced cast of Wayne Brady as the Wiz, and Kyle Ramar Freeman as the Lion, Phillip Johnson Richardson as the Tinman, and Avery Wilson as the Scarecrow. Additional casting will be announced in the coming weeks.
The casting of Cox and Betts was announced today by producers Kristin Caskey, Mike Isaacson, Brian Anthony Moreland and Ambassador Theatre Group. The Wiz revival will begin a national tour this fall with a planned arrival on Broadway in spring of 2024.
Cox has reached the music charts with six top 20 Billboard R&b singles and 13 No. 1 hits on Billboard’s Hot Dance Club Play Chart, including the hits “Nobody’s Supposed To Be...
Cox and Betts join the previously announced cast of Wayne Brady as the Wiz, and Kyle Ramar Freeman as the Lion, Phillip Johnson Richardson as the Tinman, and Avery Wilson as the Scarecrow. Additional casting will be announced in the coming weeks.
The casting of Cox and Betts was announced today by producers Kristin Caskey, Mike Isaacson, Brian Anthony Moreland and Ambassador Theatre Group. The Wiz revival will begin a national tour this fall with a planned arrival on Broadway in spring of 2024.
Cox has reached the music charts with six top 20 Billboard R&b singles and 13 No. 1 hits on Billboard’s Hot Dance Club Play Chart, including the hits “Nobody’s Supposed To Be...
- 6/13/2023
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Kimberly Akimbo was the big winner at the 76th annual Tony Awards, which were handed out Sunday night in New York. It won five awards including Best Musical and Lead Actress for Victoria Clark.
Related: Tony Awards Review & Recap: A Writer-Less Ceremony Goes Off Without A Hitch As Broadway Improvises A Winner
Leopoldstadt won four Tonys including Best Play, tying for second-most with Some Like It Hot. See the full list of winners below.
Julie Comer and (Prima Facie) and J. Harrison Ghee (Some Like It Hot) took Lead Actress and Actor in a Musical, respectively, and Sean Hayes won Lead Actor in a Play for Good Night, Oscar, which was that shows lone win – as was Comer’s for Prima Facie.
Related: Tony Awards 2023: The Best Of The Red Carpet
Eleven Tonys were presented during the hour-plus preshow, and 15 more are were doled out in primetime. Oscar...
Related: Tony Awards Review & Recap: A Writer-Less Ceremony Goes Off Without A Hitch As Broadway Improvises A Winner
Leopoldstadt won four Tonys including Best Play, tying for second-most with Some Like It Hot. See the full list of winners below.
Julie Comer and (Prima Facie) and J. Harrison Ghee (Some Like It Hot) took Lead Actress and Actor in a Musical, respectively, and Sean Hayes won Lead Actor in a Play for Good Night, Oscar, which was that shows lone win – as was Comer’s for Prima Facie.
Related: Tony Awards 2023: The Best Of The Red Carpet
Eleven Tonys were presented during the hour-plus preshow, and 15 more are were doled out in primetime. Oscar...
- 6/12/2023
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
Wayne Brady will lead the Broadway revival of The Wiz, producers Kristin Caskey, Mike Isaacson, Brian Anthony Moreland and Ambassador Theatre Group said Wednesday.
The Who’s Line Is It Anyway star has previously appeared on Broadway as Billy Flynn in Chicago, as Lola in Kinky Boots and as Aaron Burr in the Chicago run of Hamilton. He will take on the role of the Wiz in spring 2024, during the production’s planned Broadway run, following stops at the Golden Gate Theatre in San Francisco and at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre.
Before coming to Broadway, the production will launch a tour this fall in Baltimore and travel to cities including DC, Pittsburgh, Atlanta, Chicago and San Diego. During those tour stops, Alan Mingo Jr., who has also appeared as Lola in Kinky Boots on Broadway, as well as Sebastian in The Little Mermaid, will play the role of the Wiz.
The Who’s Line Is It Anyway star has previously appeared on Broadway as Billy Flynn in Chicago, as Lola in Kinky Boots and as Aaron Burr in the Chicago run of Hamilton. He will take on the role of the Wiz in spring 2024, during the production’s planned Broadway run, following stops at the Golden Gate Theatre in San Francisco and at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre.
Before coming to Broadway, the production will launch a tour this fall in Baltimore and travel to cities including DC, Pittsburgh, Atlanta, Chicago and San Diego. During those tour stops, Alan Mingo Jr., who has also appeared as Lola in Kinky Boots on Broadway, as well as Sebastian in The Little Mermaid, will play the role of the Wiz.
- 6/7/2023
- by Caitlin Huston
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Five-time Emmy winner and Grammy Award nominee Wayne Brady will play the title character in The Wiz revival when it lands on Broadway in spring 2024, producers announced today, with Doom Patrol’s Alan Mingo Jr. (Kinky Boots) taking the role during many of the production’s pre-Broadway tour dates.
The casting comes after the recent news that Kyle Ramar Freeman cast been cast as the Lion, Phillip Johnson Richardson as the Tinman, and Avery Wilson as the Scarecrow. Additional casting, including for the character of Dorothy, will be announced in the coming weeks
Brady will play the Wiz on Broadway in Spring of 2024, and in San Francisco at the Golden Gate Theatre, and Los Angeles at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre. Mingo Jr. will portray the Wiz on this fall’s National Tour in Baltimore, Cleveland, Washington, DC, Pittsburgh, Charlotte, Atlanta, Greenville, Chicago, Des Moines, Tempe, and San Diego.
The casting comes after the recent news that Kyle Ramar Freeman cast been cast as the Lion, Phillip Johnson Richardson as the Tinman, and Avery Wilson as the Scarecrow. Additional casting, including for the character of Dorothy, will be announced in the coming weeks
Brady will play the Wiz on Broadway in Spring of 2024, and in San Francisco at the Golden Gate Theatre, and Los Angeles at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre. Mingo Jr. will portray the Wiz on this fall’s National Tour in Baltimore, Cleveland, Washington, DC, Pittsburgh, Charlotte, Atlanta, Greenville, Chicago, Des Moines, Tempe, and San Diego.
- 6/7/2023
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
The Broadway-bound revival of The Wiz, which will launch a national tour in Baltimore this fall, has cast Kyle Ramar Freeman (A Strange Loop) as the Lion, Phillip Johnson Richardson (Apple+’s Sharper) as the Tinman, and former The Voice contestant Avery Wilson as the Scarecrow.
Richardson and Wilson will be making their Broadway debuts. Casting for the character of Dorothy has yet to be announced.
The revival, featuring some new material by Amber Ruffin, is produced by Kristin Caskey, Mike Isaacson, Brian Anthony Moreland, Ambassador Theatre Group, Kandi Burruss and Todd Tucker, who issued the joint statement today announcing the castings. The revival is set to arrive on Broadway next spring.
Featuring a book by William F. Brown and a score by Charlie Smalls (and others), the revival will be directed by Schele Williams and choreographed by JaQuel Knight. The Wiz premiered on Broadway in 1975 and won seven Tony Awards including Best Musical.
Richardson and Wilson will be making their Broadway debuts. Casting for the character of Dorothy has yet to be announced.
The revival, featuring some new material by Amber Ruffin, is produced by Kristin Caskey, Mike Isaacson, Brian Anthony Moreland, Ambassador Theatre Group, Kandi Burruss and Todd Tucker, who issued the joint statement today announcing the castings. The revival is set to arrive on Broadway next spring.
Featuring a book by William F. Brown and a score by Charlie Smalls (and others), the revival will be directed by Schele Williams and choreographed by JaQuel Knight. The Wiz premiered on Broadway in 1975 and won seven Tony Awards including Best Musical.
- 6/1/2023
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
“Real Housewives of Atlanta” stars Kandi Burruss and Todd Tucker have joined the producing team for “The Wiz” musical, producers Kristin Caskey, Mike Isaacson, Brian Anthony Moreland and Ambassador Theatre Group announced on Thursday.
In a joint statement, Burruss and Tucker said, “We are thrilled to be part of ‘The Wiz.’ The songs, choreography, costumes, everything about ‘The Wiz’ is epic!” They continued, saying, “We have always said we want to help open the doors of theatre to all people. Theatre has the power to influence and inspire people to create change through art, and that is what we all need now. Art can heal and art can change you. It has changed us. So, come on and ease on down the road with us!”
Also Read:
Tony Awards Predictions 2023: Who Will Win – and Who Should
Featuring a book by William F. Brown and a Tony Award-winning score by...
In a joint statement, Burruss and Tucker said, “We are thrilled to be part of ‘The Wiz.’ The songs, choreography, costumes, everything about ‘The Wiz’ is epic!” They continued, saying, “We have always said we want to help open the doors of theatre to all people. Theatre has the power to influence and inspire people to create change through art, and that is what we all need now. Art can heal and art can change you. It has changed us. So, come on and ease on down the road with us!”
Also Read:
Tony Awards Predictions 2023: Who Will Win – and Who Should
Featuring a book by William F. Brown and a Tony Award-winning score by...
- 5/25/2023
- by Lawrence Yee
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Real Housewives of Atlanta star Kandi Burruss and husband/entrepreneur Todd Tucker have joined the producing for the Broadway-bound revival of The Wiz, Deadline has learned.
In a statement, Burruss and Tucker said, “We are thrilled to be part of The Wiz. The songs, choreography, costumes, everything about The Wiz is epic.
“We have always said we want to help open the doors of theatre to all people,” they continued. “Theatre has the power to influence and inspire people to create change through art, and that is what we all need now. Art can heal and art can change you. It has changed us. So, come on and ease on down the road with us.”
The Wiz will be the latest Broadway production credit for Burruss and Tucker, following the recent Tony-nominated revival of The Piano Lesson and last season’s Thoughts of a Colored Man. Burruss also has...
In a statement, Burruss and Tucker said, “We are thrilled to be part of The Wiz. The songs, choreography, costumes, everything about The Wiz is epic.
“We have always said we want to help open the doors of theatre to all people,” they continued. “Theatre has the power to influence and inspire people to create change through art, and that is what we all need now. Art can heal and art can change you. It has changed us. So, come on and ease on down the road with us.”
The Wiz will be the latest Broadway production credit for Burruss and Tucker, following the recent Tony-nominated revival of The Piano Lesson and last season’s Thoughts of a Colored Man. Burruss also has...
- 5/25/2023
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Theater owner and producer Ambassador Theatre Group has agreed to an exclusive three-year partnership with J.J. Abrams’ newly formed theater division, Bad Robot Live.
As part of the partnership, Atg, which has theaters on the West End and Broadway, will have opportunities to help bring to stage and partner on theater productions from Bad Robot Live, a division of Abram’s Bad Robot Productions, as well as give Bad Robot Live the opportunity to work on those projects with Atg’s producing arm. Elizabeth Rothman, formerly of the non-profit theater Manhattan Theatre Club, will head Bad Robot Live.
The first joint project will be Liz Kingsman’s solo show, One Woman Show, which recently played The Ambassadors Theatre in London and received a 2023 Olivier Award Nomination for Best Entertainment or Comedy Play. Atg Productions, Bad Robot Live and co-producer Wessex Grove will bring the show to the U.
As part of the partnership, Atg, which has theaters on the West End and Broadway, will have opportunities to help bring to stage and partner on theater productions from Bad Robot Live, a division of Abram’s Bad Robot Productions, as well as give Bad Robot Live the opportunity to work on those projects with Atg’s producing arm. Elizabeth Rothman, formerly of the non-profit theater Manhattan Theatre Club, will head Bad Robot Live.
The first joint project will be Liz Kingsman’s solo show, One Woman Show, which recently played The Ambassadors Theatre in London and received a 2023 Olivier Award Nomination for Best Entertainment or Comedy Play. Atg Productions, Bad Robot Live and co-producer Wessex Grove will bring the show to the U.
- 3/7/2023
- by Caitlin Huston
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Ambassador Theatre Group has announced an exclusive three-year partnership with the newly formed Bad Robot Live, the theatre division of J.J. Abrams’s Bad Robot Productions. As creative collaborators and co-producers, Atg will help bring to the stage Abrams’s “unique producorial vision.”
The joint development arrangement will provide Atg, a prominent player on both Broadway and London’s West End, with partnership opportunities on Bad Robot Live’s current and future theatre projects, and give Bad Robot Live the opportunity to collaborate on those projects with Atg Productions, one of the world’s leading producers of theatrical events including recent productions of Cabaret, Cyrano, Plaza Suite, David Byrne’s American Utopia, (and the previewing Broadway versions of A Doll’s House and Parade).
The first joint project under the new Atg and Bad Robot Live agreement is Liz Kingsman’s critically acclaimed solo show, One Woman Show, which recently enjoyed...
The joint development arrangement will provide Atg, a prominent player on both Broadway and London’s West End, with partnership opportunities on Bad Robot Live’s current and future theatre projects, and give Bad Robot Live the opportunity to collaborate on those projects with Atg Productions, one of the world’s leading producers of theatrical events including recent productions of Cabaret, Cyrano, Plaza Suite, David Byrne’s American Utopia, (and the previewing Broadway versions of A Doll’s House and Parade).
The first joint project under the new Atg and Bad Robot Live agreement is Liz Kingsman’s critically acclaimed solo show, One Woman Show, which recently enjoyed...
- 3/7/2023
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: The Wiz is getting ready for the road to Broadway with an award-winning design team, including Oscar-winning Black Panther production designer Hannah Beachler and Emmy-winning Watchmen costume designer Sharen Davis.
The design team, which also includes lighting design by Ryan J. O’Gara (Thoughts of a Colored Man) and wig design by Academy Award-winning Mia Neal (Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom), was announced today by producers Kristin Caskey, Mike Isaacson, Brian Anthony Moreland, and Ambassador Theatre Group.
Hannah Beachler Headshot. (Photo: Chris Britt)
As previously reported, the all-new production of the groundbreaking Broadway hit musical will launch a national tour in fall 2023 in Baltimore (where the original musical debuted in 1974), before arriving on Broadway for a limited engagement in spring 2024.
Featuring a book by William F. Brown and a Tony Award-winning score by Charlie Smalls (and others), director Schele Williams, choreographer JaQuel Knight...
The design team, which also includes lighting design by Ryan J. O’Gara (Thoughts of a Colored Man) and wig design by Academy Award-winning Mia Neal (Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom), was announced today by producers Kristin Caskey, Mike Isaacson, Brian Anthony Moreland, and Ambassador Theatre Group.
Hannah Beachler Headshot. (Photo: Chris Britt)
As previously reported, the all-new production of the groundbreaking Broadway hit musical will launch a national tour in fall 2023 in Baltimore (where the original musical debuted in 1974), before arriving on Broadway for a limited engagement in spring 2024.
Featuring a book by William F. Brown and a Tony Award-winning score by Charlie Smalls (and others), director Schele Williams, choreographer JaQuel Knight...
- 1/31/2023
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
The Wiz is easing on down to Broadway.
The beloved Black-led, music-infused spin on the Wizard of Oz is slated to return as a reimagined revival in Spring 2024, producers announced Thursday. Amber Ruffin, whose co-written Some Like It Hot with Matthew López is set to open on Broadway this December, is attached to provide additional material for the limited engagement.
The “all-new” production of the Tony-winning musical adapted from L. Frank Baum’s children’s book will serve as the Broadway directorial debut for Schele Williams.
“I wouldn’t be on Broadway if it wasn’t for The Wiz,” Williams said in a statement. “The music, the costumes, the choreography and Stephanie Mills! Seeing that show changed my life. It is, in every way, a celebration of Black excellence. I am honored to helm this production and I can’t think of a...
The Wiz is easing on down to Broadway.
The beloved Black-led, music-infused spin on the Wizard of Oz is slated to return as a reimagined revival in Spring 2024, producers announced Thursday. Amber Ruffin, whose co-written Some Like It Hot with Matthew López is set to open on Broadway this December, is attached to provide additional material for the limited engagement.
The “all-new” production of the Tony-winning musical adapted from L. Frank Baum’s children’s book will serve as the Broadway directorial debut for Schele Williams.
“I wouldn’t be on Broadway if it wasn’t for The Wiz,” Williams said in a statement. “The music, the costumes, the choreography and Stephanie Mills! Seeing that show changed my life. It is, in every way, a celebration of Black excellence. I am honored to helm this production and I can’t think of a...
- 12/1/2022
- by Abbey White
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The beloved musical The Wiz will return to Broadway next season in an “entirely reimagined revival” directed by Schele Williams and featuring additional material by Amber Ruffin.
The production will launch a national tour in the Fall of 2023 in Baltimore, where the original musical premiered in 1974, and will play in cities across the country before beginning a limited engagement on Broadway in Spring 2024.
The revival was announced today by producers Kristin Caskey, Mike Isaacson, Brian Anthony Moreland, and Ambassador Theatre Group. Featuring a book by William F. Brown and a Tony Award-winning score by Charlie Smalls (and others) – among its best-known songs is “Ease On Down The Road” – the new production will be choreographed by Jaquel Knight with music supervision, orchestrations, and music arrangements by Joseph Joubert.
Director Williams, who will make her Broadway debut with the show – she’s also directing the upcoming revival of Disney’s Aida – said in a statement,...
The production will launch a national tour in the Fall of 2023 in Baltimore, where the original musical premiered in 1974, and will play in cities across the country before beginning a limited engagement on Broadway in Spring 2024.
The revival was announced today by producers Kristin Caskey, Mike Isaacson, Brian Anthony Moreland, and Ambassador Theatre Group. Featuring a book by William F. Brown and a Tony Award-winning score by Charlie Smalls (and others) – among its best-known songs is “Ease On Down The Road” – the new production will be choreographed by Jaquel Knight with music supervision, orchestrations, and music arrangements by Joseph Joubert.
Director Williams, who will make her Broadway debut with the show – she’s also directing the upcoming revival of Disney’s Aida – said in a statement,...
- 12/1/2022
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
David Byrne’s American Utopia, the theatrical concert performance that played a limited engagement on Broadway to great acclaim and full houses for five months in 2019 and 2020, and months ago announced a 2021 return, has found its venue: Utopia will begin performances at Jujamcyn’s St. James Theatre on the previously announced Friday, Sept. 17.
Byrne will return to Broadway with his original American Utopia band fully intact: Jacquelene Acevedo, Gustavo Di Dalva, Daniel Freedman, Chris Giarmo, Tim Keiper, Tendayi Kuumba, Karl Mansfield, Mauro Refosco, Stéphane San Juan, Angie Swan and Bobby Wooten III.
“It is with great pleasure that finally, after a year+ like no other, I can announce that our show is coming back to Broadway,” Byrne said. “You who kept the faith, who held on to your tickets, well, you knew this would happen eventually! September 17 – remount previews begin.
“We’re moving to the St. James Theatre – just down 44th Street from the Hudson,...
Byrne will return to Broadway with his original American Utopia band fully intact: Jacquelene Acevedo, Gustavo Di Dalva, Daniel Freedman, Chris Giarmo, Tim Keiper, Tendayi Kuumba, Karl Mansfield, Mauro Refosco, Stéphane San Juan, Angie Swan and Bobby Wooten III.
“It is with great pleasure that finally, after a year+ like no other, I can announce that our show is coming back to Broadway,” Byrne said. “You who kept the faith, who held on to your tickets, well, you knew this would happen eventually! September 17 – remount previews begin.
“We’re moving to the St. James Theatre – just down 44th Street from the Hudson,...
- 6/17/2021
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Hybrid physical-online festival set to run September 10-19.
Spike Lee’s filmed version of Broadway show David Byrne’s American Utopia will open the 45th Toronto International Film Festival on September 10.
Co-heads Cameron Bailey and Joanna Vicente announced the selection on Tuesday (July 21), weeks after they unveiled plans for a hybrid physical-online festival, set to run from September 10-19.
David Byrne’s American Utopia features the Talking Heads frontman and a troupe of 11 musicians performing songs from Byrne’s 2018 solo album of the same name and Talking Heads standards like Once In A Lifetime and Burning Down The House.
The...
Spike Lee’s filmed version of Broadway show David Byrne’s American Utopia will open the 45th Toronto International Film Festival on September 10.
Co-heads Cameron Bailey and Joanna Vicente announced the selection on Tuesday (July 21), weeks after they unveiled plans for a hybrid physical-online festival, set to run from September 10-19.
David Byrne’s American Utopia features the Talking Heads frontman and a troupe of 11 musicians performing songs from Byrne’s 2018 solo album of the same name and Talking Heads standards like Once In A Lifetime and Burning Down The House.
The...
- 7/21/2020
- by 36¦Jeremy Kay¦54¦
- ScreenDaily
The filmed version of David Byrne’s Broadway show “American Utopia” — directed by Spike Lee — has been nabbed by HBO and will debut on the platform later this year, it was announced Tuesday by Nina Rosenstein, EVP, HBO Programming. No specific date was announced.
“American Utopia” features new takes and choreography to some of Byrne’s classic songs with Talking Heads and his solo career and had a sold-out run from October 2019 to February 2020 at Broadway’s Hudson Theater.
People who didn’t get to see the show got a taste of Byrne’s distinct showmanship when he performed with some of the Broadway cast on “SNL” earlier this year.
Also Read: 'David Byrne's American Utopia' Broadway Review: Stop Making Sense, Start Making Music
“David Byrne’s ‘American Utopia’ is a uniquely transformative experience and a perfect example of how entertainment can bring us together during these challenging times,...
“American Utopia” features new takes and choreography to some of Byrne’s classic songs with Talking Heads and his solo career and had a sold-out run from October 2019 to February 2020 at Broadway’s Hudson Theater.
People who didn’t get to see the show got a taste of Byrne’s distinct showmanship when he performed with some of the Broadway cast on “SNL” earlier this year.
Also Read: 'David Byrne's American Utopia' Broadway Review: Stop Making Sense, Start Making Music
“David Byrne’s ‘American Utopia’ is a uniquely transformative experience and a perfect example of how entertainment can bring us together during these challenging times,...
- 6/16/2020
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
HBO has landed the Spike Lee-directed version of Broadway show David Byrne’s American Utopia.
The film will launch on the premium cable network later this year and comes after Deadline revealed the filmed version of the show in January.
The Broadway production, which opened October 2019 and ran through February 16 at the Hudson Theatre, features the Talking Heads cofounder accompanied by 11 musicians from around the world performing songs from Byrne’s 2018 album American Utopia as well as hits from his Talking Heads and solo periods.
The stage musical is set to return to Broadway’s Hudson Theatre for a limited engagement beginning in September, though all Broadway immediate plans are more or less on hold as theaters remain closed due to the coronavirus.
The Broadway production featured the work of choreographer Annie-b Parson and Alex Timbers serving as production consultant, both of whom previously collaborated with Byrne on the...
The film will launch on the premium cable network later this year and comes after Deadline revealed the filmed version of the show in January.
The Broadway production, which opened October 2019 and ran through February 16 at the Hudson Theatre, features the Talking Heads cofounder accompanied by 11 musicians from around the world performing songs from Byrne’s 2018 album American Utopia as well as hits from his Talking Heads and solo periods.
The stage musical is set to return to Broadway’s Hudson Theatre for a limited engagement beginning in September, though all Broadway immediate plans are more or less on hold as theaters remain closed due to the coronavirus.
The Broadway production featured the work of choreographer Annie-b Parson and Alex Timbers serving as production consultant, both of whom previously collaborated with Byrne on the...
- 6/16/2020
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
David Byrne’s American Utopia will be back on Broadway this fall, producers have announced. The smash concert-style production – a commercial and critical hit – ended its limited run at Broadway’s Hudson Theatre last night, having recouped it’s initial $4 million in mid-December 2019 just ten weeks after opening.
Producers Kristin Caskey, Mike Isaacson, Patrick Catullo, and Todomundo announced that the will return to the Hudson on September 18 and run through January 17, 2021.
In a statement, former Talking Heads frontman Byrne commented, “It’s become obvious to us in the band, the crew and the producer team that audiences want, dare I say need? To see this show. They’re not ready to have it disappear just yet. We feel the same way, we love doing this show. So, it’s thrilling to us that we can announce that we’ll be back in September. Tickets are on sale now.”
“David Byrne...
Producers Kristin Caskey, Mike Isaacson, Patrick Catullo, and Todomundo announced that the will return to the Hudson on September 18 and run through January 17, 2021.
In a statement, former Talking Heads frontman Byrne commented, “It’s become obvious to us in the band, the crew and the producer team that audiences want, dare I say need? To see this show. They’re not ready to have it disappear just yet. We feel the same way, we love doing this show. So, it’s thrilling to us that we can announce that we’ll be back in September. Tickets are on sale now.”
“David Byrne...
- 2/17/2020
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Spike Lee has signed on to direct a movie based on the Broadway show “David Byrne’s American Utopia” with Participant acting as lead financier and executive producer.
River Road Entertainment and Warner Music Group will also co-finance. The film will be produced by RadicalMedia, as well as Byrne’s Todomundo and Lee’s Forty Acres and a Mule Filmworks production companies.
“Pinch me. This couldn’t have worked out better for this project,” Byrne said. “Spike Lee directing and Participant producing — two socially engaged teams, well, three if you count us in the band, coming together in what I feel will be something moving, important, and unlike anything anyone has seen before.”
“American Utopia” opened in October and runs through Feb. 16 at the Hudson Theatre. The film is planned for a 2020 release.
The Broadway show includes Byrne and 11 musical artists performing songs from Byrne’s 2018 album of the same name,...
River Road Entertainment and Warner Music Group will also co-finance. The film will be produced by RadicalMedia, as well as Byrne’s Todomundo and Lee’s Forty Acres and a Mule Filmworks production companies.
“Pinch me. This couldn’t have worked out better for this project,” Byrne said. “Spike Lee directing and Participant producing — two socially engaged teams, well, three if you count us in the band, coming together in what I feel will be something moving, important, and unlike anything anyone has seen before.”
“American Utopia” opened in October and runs through Feb. 16 at the Hudson Theatre. The film is planned for a 2020 release.
The Broadway show includes Byrne and 11 musical artists performing songs from Byrne’s 2018 album of the same name,...
- 2/1/2020
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
Spike Lee will direct a film version of David Bryne’s Broadway show “David Byrne’s American Utopia,” with primary financing provided by media company Participant with co-financing from Warner Music Group and River Road Entertainment, Participant announced Friday.
To be produced by RadicalMedia, David Byrne’s Todomundo and Spike Lee’s Forty Acres and a Mule Filmworks production companies, the film will be executive produced by Byrne, Lee and Participant’s Jeff Skoll, David Linde, and Diane Weyermann.
Warner Music Group’s David Bither, Charlie Cohen, and Kurt Deutsch, Bill Pohlad of River Road, and RadicalMedia’s Jon Kamen, Dave Sirulnick and Meredith Bennett will also executive produce along with Kristin Caskey, Mike Isaacson and Patrick Catullo, who produced the Broadway show.
Also Read: 'David Byrne's American Utopia' Broadway Review: Stop Making Sense, Start Making Music
“Pinch me. This couldn’t have worked out better for this project. Spike...
To be produced by RadicalMedia, David Byrne’s Todomundo and Spike Lee’s Forty Acres and a Mule Filmworks production companies, the film will be executive produced by Byrne, Lee and Participant’s Jeff Skoll, David Linde, and Diane Weyermann.
Warner Music Group’s David Bither, Charlie Cohen, and Kurt Deutsch, Bill Pohlad of River Road, and RadicalMedia’s Jon Kamen, Dave Sirulnick and Meredith Bennett will also executive produce along with Kristin Caskey, Mike Isaacson and Patrick Catullo, who produced the Broadway show.
Also Read: 'David Byrne's American Utopia' Broadway Review: Stop Making Sense, Start Making Music
“Pinch me. This couldn’t have worked out better for this project. Spike...
- 2/1/2020
- by Ross A. Lincoln
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Oscar winner Spike Lee has signed on to direct a filmed version of the acclaimed Broadway show David Byrne’s American Utopia. Participant adds another title to its portfolio of films meant to engage positive social change, as it will be lead financier and executive producer for the project. It is financing the film with River Road Entertainment and Warner Music Group.
The film will be produced by RadicalMedia, as well as Byrne’s Todomundo and Lee’s Forty Acres and a Mule Filmworks production companies. Byrne, Lee and Participant’s Jeff Skoll, David Linde and Diane Weyermann will share executive producer credit; along with Warner Music Group’s David Bither, Charlie Cohen, and Kurt Deutsch; Bill Pohlad of River Road; and RadicalMedia’s Jon Kamen, Dave Sirulnick and Meredith Bennett. Kristin Caskey, Mike Isaacson and Patrick Catullo, who lead produced the Broadway production, will also serve as executive producers.
The film will be produced by RadicalMedia, as well as Byrne’s Todomundo and Lee’s Forty Acres and a Mule Filmworks production companies. Byrne, Lee and Participant’s Jeff Skoll, David Linde and Diane Weyermann will share executive producer credit; along with Warner Music Group’s David Bither, Charlie Cohen, and Kurt Deutsch; Bill Pohlad of River Road; and RadicalMedia’s Jon Kamen, Dave Sirulnick and Meredith Bennett. Kristin Caskey, Mike Isaacson and Patrick Catullo, who lead produced the Broadway production, will also serve as executive producers.
- 2/1/2020
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
In the age of streaming — and with studios like Disney and Warner Bros. taking over more theater turf — it’s clear that the landscape of American theater is changing. At Variety’s inaugural Power of Broadway event, which took place over breakfast at Bryant Park Grill on Monday, legit biz leaders weighed in on what that means for producers, artists and audiences in 2018 and beyond.
On the “Future of Broadway” panel, producer Sue Frost, Ambassador Theater Group’s Kristin Caskey, and Withumsmith + Brown’s Robert Fried discussed the various paths to the Great White Way. With the rising cost of more traditional out-of-town tryouts, it can be difficult to determine when a play is ready for Broadway — and to take the development time needed without going over budget. “The amount of time you have to build has grown shorter,” said Caskey, the producer of “Fun Home.” But that investment is still vital,...
On the “Future of Broadway” panel, producer Sue Frost, Ambassador Theater Group’s Kristin Caskey, and Withumsmith + Brown’s Robert Fried discussed the various paths to the Great White Way. With the rising cost of more traditional out-of-town tryouts, it can be difficult to determine when a play is ready for Broadway — and to take the development time needed without going over budget. “The amount of time you have to build has grown shorter,” said Caskey, the producer of “Fun Home.” But that investment is still vital,...
- 10/1/2018
- by Alex Barasch
- Variety Film + TV
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