The Classical test Source For All The Performing, Visual And Literary Arts & Entertainment News
Broadway

Bill Murray's 'Groundhog Day' to Be Turned Into a Musical: Tim Minchin of 'Matilda' Releases Song

Bill Murray movie fans rejoice! A musical adaptation of the popular 1993 film "Groundhog Day" is currently in the works, with comedian-musician Tim Minchin writing the music and lyrics.While Minchin praises the original, Harold Ramis-directed film as a "true comedy classic," he does note that his musical version will "be both instantly recognizable and utterly different," according to "The Independent."Minchin, the songwriter for the hit musical Matilda, will be working with fellow "Matilda" director Matthew Warchus as well has Danny Rubin, who is writing the book, according to "The Independent." He notes that the idea for this adaptation has been around for years, with the legendary Stephen Sondheim originally toying with the idea."I've actually spoken to [Sondheim] about it," Minchin says, according to "The Independent," "and the truth is he was only ever tossing the idea around. It got put on the back burner, and he is now happy that we're making a go at it. We have Steve's blessing — and it's a blessing I value enormously.”
By Jaime Prisco

  • Hit Musical 'Matilda' Recoups on Broadway

    After a year and a half of hard work, "Matilda," the musical adaptation of the popular children’s novel by Roald Dahl, is officially a profitable hit on Broadway.The Royal Shakespeare Co. and the Dodgers confirmed that the show has paid back its $16 million investment, placing it in the elite circle of big-budget musicals to turn a profit in London and on Broadway.After a widely popular opening and seven Olivier Award wins in London, "Matilda" opened at the Shubert Theatre in April 2013 to rave reviews. The musical landed on the year’s top-10 theater list in many different arts publications. The show was nominated for 12 Tony Awards and won four of them, losing top prize for best musical to "Kinky Boots," which also recouped its $13.5 million in October 2013, after seven months.
    By Jaime Prisco

  • UPDATE Sting Dons Lead Role in Fledgling Broadway Musical 'The Last Ship' Tonight, Dec. 9

    Tonight, Sting heeds the SOS call from his floundering Broadway production,"The Last Ship" and joins the cast stepping into the role of Jackie White. He replaces the original performer, Jimmy Nail, who was the 16-time Grammy winner's best friend.
    By Ian Holubiak