After HAMILTON: New Musicals for Spring 2016
The buzz surrounding Lin Manuel-Miranda’s Hamilton is deservedly not quieting down anytime soon, yet the spring season of new musicals is upon us – and there aren’t any slackers among them. Here’s a look at just a few of the most anticipated titles for the latter half of the season.
1. DISASTER! (Seth Rudetsky and Jack Plotnick) – Broadway “everyman” Seth Rudetsky brings his disaster movie spoof to the Nederlander with a truly all-star cast: Roger Bart, Kerry Butler, Kevin Chamberlin, Adam Pascal, Faith Prince, and a host of others. If you know even the minutest of details about Rudetsky, you know this is a laugh-a-minute waiting to happen. Previews begin February 9.
2. BRIGHT STAR (Steve Martin and Edie Brickell) – Comedian-turned-musician-turned-novelist Steve Martin and writer/songstress Edie Brickell have joined forces to jointly make their Broadway debuts with this original musical detailing the love story between a WWII soldier and the literary editor he loves. Both of these artists are a welcome addition to the musical landscape. Previews begin February 25.
3. AMERICAN PSYCHO (Duncan Sheik and Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa) – With the acclaimed Deaf West revival of Sheik’s Spring Awakening having received glowing accolades, his Broadway follow-up is prepping to slay the Schoenfeld. Based on the dark novel of 1980s excess and compulsion, Benjamin Walker takes on the iconic role of Patrick Bateman with co-stars (and Next To Normal alumni) Alice Ripley and Jennifer Damiano. Previews begin March 24.
4. WAITRESS (Sara Bareilles and Jessie Nelson) – After a well-received run at American Rep under the direction of Diane Paulus, this new musical based on the 2007 cult film by Adrienne Shelly features a score by indie pop’s “it girl” Sara Bareilles. If Sara’s recent album featuring songs from the original score is any indication, the theatre community is ready to welcome this show and Bareilles with open arms. The leading role is played by Jessie Mueller in her Beautiful follow-up. Another all-female creative team taking the main street by storm – and that’s the best news of all. Previews begin March 25.
5. TUCK EVERLASTING (Nathan Tysen, Chris Miller, Claudia Shear, and Tim Federle) – Based on the beloved YA novel by Natalie Babbit, the incredible songwriting team of Miller and Tysen (The Burnt Part Boys) make their long-overdue Broadway debut. Claudia “Dirty Blonde” Shear and Tim “Better Nate Than Ever” Federle take on libretto duties. For fans of NMT, this may be the most celebrated spring opening this year. Previews begin March 31.
What new spring opening (on, off, or way off Broadway) has you most excited for 2016?
The post After HAMILTON: New Musicals for Spring 2016 appeared first on The NewMusicalTheatre.com Green Room.
