Broadway's Marquis Theatre Is "Heartbreak Hotel" When All Shook Up Opens in 2005

By Kenneth Jones
May 18, 2004

All Shook Up, the new musical that borrows Elvis Presley hits to activate an original story of a small town bewitched by a guitar-strummin' stranger, will begin previews at Broadway's Marquis Theatre Feb. 20, 2005, followed by a March 24 opening.

The announcement, much rumored in the community, was made official May 18. Thoroughly Modern Millie has been the Marquis' tenant for more than two years and ends its run June 20.

Directed by Christopher Ashley, with a book by Joe DiPietro and choreography by Jodi Moccia, All Shook Up will receive its world premiere in Chicago in a five week, pre-Broadway engagement at Chicago's Cadillac Palace Theatre, Dec. 21, 2004-Jan. 23, 2005.

"A new musical comedy set in 1955, All Shook Up is not a biographical revue," according to the announcement. "Somewhere in middle America – one girl's wish and a surprise visit from a mysterious leather jacketed, guitar-playing stranger will lead a small town to discover the magic of romance and the power of rock & roll. This irresistible new musical features 24 legendary Elvis classics including 'Heartbreak Hotel,' 'Love Me Tender,' 'Don't Be Cruel,' 'Can’t Help Falling in Love' and 'All Shook Up.'"

Designers are David Rockwell (scenic), David C. Woolard (costume) and Donald Holder (lighting). All Shook Up is currently receiving a developmental production at Goodspeed's Norma Terris Theatre through June 6, 2004, prior to its Chicago world premiere.

All Shook Up is produced by Jonathan Pollard, Bernie Kukoff, Clear Channel Entertainment, Harbor Entertainment, Stanley Buchthal and Miramax Films, in association with Eric Falkenstein, Nina Essman/Nancy Nagel Gibbs, Karen Jason and Barney Rosenzweig.