Additional casting for the Renaissance Venice-set musical drama, directed by Tony nominee Sheryl Kaller, was announced on Nov. 23. More casting will be announced.
Dangerous Beauty by Jeannine Dominy (book), Amanda McBroom (lyrics) and Michele Brourman (music) will star previously announced lead actress Jenny Powers (Broadway's Grease and Little Women) as poet-courtesan Veronica Franco, plus James Snyder (Drama League Award nominee for Broadway's Cry-Baby) as her love Marco; Bryce Ryness (Drama Desk Award nominee for Broadway's Hair) as her rival Maffio; Laila Robins (Broadway's Heartbreak House) as her mother Paola; Michael Rupert (Legally Blonde, The Happy Time, Tony winner for Sweet Charity) as the poet Domenico; Megan McGinnis (Broadway's Little Women, Ovation Award nominee for the Rubicon Theatre's Daddy Long Legs) as Veronica's dear friend Beatrice; John Antony (Broadway's Passion) as powerful senator Pietro; and Morgan Weed (Second Stage Theatre's Next to Normal) as Giulia, who is betrothed to Marco.
According to Pasadena Playhouse, Dangerous Beauty, based on a true story, "tells the tumultuous tale of Veronica Franco, a celebrated courtesan/poet of 16th century Venice. Forced to become a courtesan when her family fortune is lost, preventing her from marrying the man she loves [played by Snyder], Veronica ultimately embraces the courtesan life because it affords her extraordinary education and access. It is not long before she is the most influential woman in the cultural and political life of her beloved city. As Veronica's star rises, however, Venice is ravaged by war, plague, and the Inquisition. When Veronica finds herself on trial for witchcraft, she realizes that only her personal integrity can save her."
The musical is adapted from the New Regency screenplay "The Honest Courtesan" written by Jeannine Dominy, released as the film "Dangerous Beauty." It's inspired by the scholarly book "The Honest Courtesan" by USC Professor Margaret Rosenthal.
Director Kaller was Tony-nominated for her direction of the play Next Fall. Dangerous Beauty will open Feb. 13, 2011, following previews from Feb. 1 for a run to Feb. 27, 2011, at Pasadena Playhouse (39 S. El Molino Avenue in Pasadena, CA). The creative team includes Benoit-Swan Pouffer (choreography); Fred Lassen (music director); Bruce Coughlin (orchestrations); AnnMarie Milazzo (vocal design); Ben Butler (additional orchestrations); Tom Buderwitz (scenic design); Soyon An (costume design); Russell Champa (lighting design); Jon Weston (sound design); Brian Danner (fight director); and Joe Witt (production stage management).
For additional information visit www.PasadenaPlayhouse.org.
