After finding inspiration in the songs of Billy Joel (Movin' Out) and Bob Dylan (The Times They Are A-Changin'), Tharp returns to Broadway with her latest work, which began previews March 1 at the Marquis Theatre. Come Fly Away lands in New York following an acclaimed bow at the Alliance Theatre in Atlanta last fall.
With the blessing of Frank Sinatra Enterprises and the Sinatra family, Come Fly Away features original masters of Sinatra's voice, which are backed by a live on-stage band. The show includes original arrangements by Nelson Riddle, Billy May and Quincy Jones, as well as newly created arrangements for the production. Also featured are vocalists Hilary Gardner and, at alternate performances, Rosena M. Hill.
Come Fly Away boasts several Movin' Out veterans, including Tony nominees Keith Roberts and John Selya. Both Selya and Roberts appeared in the Atlanta premiere.
Also returning for the Broadway production are Atlanta principal dancers Alexander Brady, Rika Okamoto, Karine Plantadit, Matthew Dibble, Holley Farmer, Laura Mead and Charlie Neshyba-Hodges.
The Come Fly Away company includes Kristine Bendul, Colin Bradbury, Alexander Brady, Todd Burnsed, Jeremy Cox, Carolyn Doherty, Amanda Edge, Cody Green, Heather Hamilton, Laurie Kanyok, Meredith Miles, Marielys Molina, Eric Otto, Justin Peck, Joel Prouty, Ashley Tuttle and Ron Todorowski. Come Fly Away, according to press notes, "follows four couples as they fall in and out of love during one song and dance filled evening at a crowded nightclub. Blending the legendary vocals of Frank Sinatra with a live on stage 19-piece big band and 15 of the world’s finest dancers, Come Fly Away weaves an unparalleled hit parade of classics, including 'Fly Me To The Moon,' 'My Way' and 'That's Life' into a soaring musical fantasy of romance and seduction."
The Come Fly Away creative team includes set designer James Youmans, lighting designer Donald Holder, costume designer Katherine Roth, as well as music supervisor Patrick Vacciarello (assuming duties for the late Sam Lutfiyya), sound designer Peter McBoyle and orchestrators Dave Pierce and Don Sebesky.
Tickets are available by phoning (212) 307-4100, or by visiting Ticketmaster. The Marquis Theatre is located at 1535 Broadway.
Visit ComeFlyAway.