Originally scheduled to end its limited run June 25, Thrill Me was first extended to play through July 10. A spokesperson for the production told Playbill.com that the new musical about thrill killers Nathan Leopold and Richard Loeb will now run at least through the end of the summer. No closing date has been determined.
In a surprise bit of casting news, the composer of the musical — Stephen Dolginoff — recently stepped into the role of Nathan Leopold, which was originated by Matt Bauer. Bauer had a previous commitment and was not able to extend his time with the acclaimed production.
Directed by Tony Award winner Michael Rupert, the musical officially opened May 26 with Doug Kreeger as Richard Loeb opposite the Nathan Leopold of Bauer. The pre-recorded voices of John McMartin and Stephen Bogardus — playing members of the Parole Board — are also part of the production.
Thrill Me: The Leopold & Loeb Story premiered in 2003 as part of the Fourth Annual Midtown International Theatre Festival in New York City. The musical features book, music and lyrics by Stephen Dolginoff; Eugene Gwozdz is the musical director for the York run. The remainder of the creative team comprises James Morgan (set design), Thom Weaver (lighting design) and Jennifer Paar (costume design).
The musical drama, according to production notes, "recounts the chilling tale of the legendary duo who committed one of the most infamous and heinous crimes of the 20th century. Set in 1924 Chicago, it chronicles the events that led childhood friends Nathan Leopold and Richard Loeb to forever be remembered as 'the thrill killers.'" Beginning July 18, Thrill Me will also play a new schedule: Monday, Thursday and Friday evenings at 8 PM with Saturday matinees at 2:30 PM. Tickets, priced at $55, are available by calling (212) 868 4444 or by visiting www.smarttix.com.
The York Theatre Company at Saint Peter's is located at 619 Lexington Avenue with the entrance at 54th Street. Visit www.yorktheatre.org for more information.