Will Hugh Jackman Play Harry Houdini in New Broadway Musical?
By Andrew Gans
26 Nov 2008
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Hugh Jackman
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| photo by Aubrey Reuben | Since he ended his Tony-winning run in The Boy From Oz, Hugh Jackman — who was recently named People Magazine's Sexiest Man Alive — has been rumored to star in a slew of Broadway musicals, including Pal Joey and Stop the World — I Want to Get Off.
The latest possibility, according to Fox News, is the upcoming musical Houdini, which is aiming for a Broadway bow in spring 2010.
Fox News says that Jackman is already at work on the magic routines that will be part of the musical penned by Danny Elfman (music) and two-time Tony nominee David Yazbek (lyrics). There has been no official casting announced for the production.
Jackman, who can currently be seen on screen in "Australia," earned a Tony Award for his work in the Broadway musical The Boy From Oz. He is also known for his film roles in the "X-Men" trilogy, "Someone Like You," "Swordfish," "Kate and Leopold," "Van Helsing" and the recent "The Fountain" and "Happy Feet" (in voice). His stage credits also include Trevor Nunn's staging of Oklahoma! at Britian's National Theatre and award-winning work in productions of Sunset Boulevard and Beauty and the Beast in his homeland.
As previously announced, Scott Sanders and David Rockwell will produce Houdini, which features a book by best-selling author, journalist and editor Kurt Andersen. Three-time Tony Award winner Jack O'Brien is attached to direct; Rockwell will also design the sets.
Houdini, based on the life of the late magician and escape artist Harry Houdini, "ultimately deals with the human yearning for astonishment and miracles — both manmade and supernatural —and the quest to defy death," according to press notes.
In a previous statement producer Sanders said, "When David Rockwell asked me to join him as a co-lead producer, I didn't hesitate for a moment. Houdini is an amazing, iconic figure who continues to captivate our imagination more than 80 years after his death. His colorful world defines the theatrical and, combined with this remarkable creative team, will make for a fascinating and entertaining musical."
Producer-designer Rockwell added, "The musical theatre has always been a passion of mine, and I can't imagine a more thrilling opportunity than the creation of a new musical, especially with this team."
Theatre, casting and a complete design team for Houdini: An Original Musical will be announced at a later date.
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