Broadway’s Fall Season Set to Dazzle: Nicole Scherzinger, Darren Criss, Audra McDonald Among the Stars
Broadway’s fall season is here, and it’s packed with star power, new musicals, and exciting revivals. With seven productions (five originals and two revivals) hitting the stage, there’s no shortage of buzz about which might be the next big contender at the Tony Awards. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s coming:
Maybe Happy Ending
Previews begin September 18; opens October 17
In this heartwarming original musical by Will Aronson and Hue Park, Oliver, a retired Helperbot 3 living in a small apartment on the outskirts of Seoul, finds his quiet routine disrupted when fellow robot Claire asks to borrow his charger. What starts as an awkward encounter blossoms into a unique friendship and unexpected adventure, with a hint of romance. The production stars Emmy winner Darren Criss, Helen J. Shen, Dez Duron, and Marcus Choi, and is directed by Tony winner Michael Arden.
Sunset Boulevard
Previews begin September 28; opens October 20
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s haunting tale of faded silent screen star Norma Desmond returns to Broadway for its second revival. Set in her decaying Los Angeles mansion, Norma’s dream of a comeback collides with reality when she meets young screenwriter Joe Gillis, leading to a tragic end. Following a successful run in London’s West End, this production features Grammy nominee Nicole Scherzinger, Tom Francis, Olivier winner David Thaxton, and Grace Hodgett-Young, all under the direction of Jamie Lloyd.
A Wonderful World
Previews begin October 16; opens November 11
This jukebox musical brings the life of jazz legend Louis Armstrong to the Broadway stage, charting his journey from New Orleans to worldwide fame. With a rich tapestry of characters, including the influential women in Armstrong’s life, this biographical show stars Tony winner James Monroe Iglehart alongside a talented ensemble. Directed by Tony nominee Christopher Renshaw, it promises a vibrant celebration of Armstrong’s legacy.
Tammy Faye
Previews begin October 19; opens November 14
This biographical musical dives into the life of Tammy Faye Bakker, the charismatic wife of televangelist Jim Bakker, who captured the hearts of millions in the 1970s. With a book by Tony nominee James Graham and a score by Elton John and Jake Shears, the show explores Tammy’s rise and the scandals that followed. The cast features Olivier winner Katie Brayben, Tony winners Christian Borle and Michael Cerveris, and is directed by Rupert Goold.
Death Becomes Her
Previews begin October 23; opens November 21
This adaptation of the darkly comedic film follows frenemies Madeline Ashton and Helen Sharp as they vie for eternal youth and revenge, thanks to a mysterious elixir offered by the enigmatic Viola Van Horn. With a book by Marco Pennette and a score by Julia Mattison and Noel Carey, the production stars Tony nominees Megan Hilty, Jennifer Simard, Christopher Sieber, and Grammy winner Michelle T. Williams, directed by Christopher Gattelli.
Swept Away
Previews begin October 29; opens November 19
Set against the backdrop of a whaling ship disaster, this jukebox musical explores survival and the moral dilemmas faced by its four shipwrecked characters. Using the music of The Avett Brothers, the show features a book by Tony-winning playwright John Logan and stars Adrian Blake Enscoe, Stark Sands, John Gallagher Jr., and Wayne Duvall, directed by Tony winner Michael Mayer.
Gypsy
Previews begin November 21; opens December 19
This classic tale of ambition, motherhood, and the struggles of showbiz life returns to Broadway in its fifth revival. Focusing on Rose Havoc’s relentless drive to make stars of her daughters, “Gypsy” is a perennial favorite. Six-time Tony winner Audra McDonald takes on the iconic role of Rose in a production directed by George C. Wolfe, promising a fresh take on this beloved story.
With big names like Nicole Scherzinger, Darren Criss, and Audra McDonald leading the charge, Broadway’s fall lineup is bursting with talent and potential show-stoppers. Whether you’re into heartfelt new stories or reimagined classics, this season is shaping up to be one to watch. Grab your tickets, because Broadway is ready to dazzle!
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