Actor Gavin Creel, one of the principals of the new musical, Thoroughly Modern Millie, is expected back to the show within two weeks following surgery on knee injury he suffered in the March 23 preview matinee of the show.
A spokesman for the show said he underwent surgery to correct the popped knee and would return to the show well before opening.
During an Act One dance number March 23, Creel's knee "popped" and, at intermission, he sought a doctor's care while the company quickly prepared understudy Brandon Wardell for the role of Jimmy — the romantic love interest of the title character.
Wardell also performed Saturday night and the Sunday matinee. While Creel recovers, Wardell will go on. Sources also told Playbill On-Line that Millie dance captain Dave Eggers has also been sidelined with a broken wrist.
Not taking it on the chin, the company and creative team are doing exactly what troupes should be doing in previews — working on the show. A new song is being rehearsed and an additional scene is going into the show. *
The new stage musical inspired by the 1967 movie musical began previews at the Marquis Theatre on Broadway March 19. The show is set to open April 18. The role of Jimmy in not necessarily dance-heavy, but in previews there is a pivotal dance moment for the character, according to observers.
Michael Mayer directs and Rob Ashford choreographs the show by Richard Morris (book), Dick Scanlan (book and lyrics) and Jeanine Tesori (music).
Thoroughly Modern Millie is presented by Michael Leavitt, Fox Theatricals and Hal Luftig, with Stewart F. Lane, James L. Nederlander, Independent Presenters Network, John York Noble, Libby Adler Mages/Mari Glick and Whoopi Goldberg.
The show plays 8 PM Tuesday-Saturday, 2 PM Wednesday and Saturday and 3 PM Sunday. Tickets range $55-$95. For tickets, call (212) 307-4100, or in-person at the Marquis Theatre box office (1535 Broadway at 46th Street).
There will be added performances on 8 PM Mondays April 8 and April 15. There are no performances Sunday April 14 or Sunday April 21.
