Platinum Broadway

Ephrons' 'Love' sets 12-week run - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety

Ephrons' 'Love' sets 12-week run - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety.

Nora and Delia Ephron's stage adaptation of book "Love, Loss and What I Wore" will have a 12-week Off Broadway run beginning in September. Show will have three casts of five thesps each, including Tyne Daly, Rosie O'Donnell, Kristin Chenoweth and Rita Wilson. Casts will play stints of four weeks each, with exact dates and thesps to be confirmed later. Production is helmed by Karen Carpenter. "What I Wore" was first seen in Gotham earlier this year in a series of benefit readings at producer Daryl Roth's DR2 Theater. Roth also will produce the Off Broadway stint. Show is based on Ilene Beckerman's illustrated look at the outfits she wore during different phases of her life. A series of sartorial-themed anecdotes, the legit version takes its inspiration not only from the book but also from personal stories of the Ephrons' friends. Production begins previews at the Westside Theater Sept. 21 ahead of an Oct. 1 opening. Some proceeds of the run will go to charity Dress for Success, which provides professional clothes and job support for low-income women.

Elizabeth Ashley to Join August: Osage County in February: Theater News on TheaterMania.com

Elizabeth Ashley to Join August: Osage County in February: Theater News on TheaterMania.com.

Tony Award winner Elizabeth Ashley will take over the role of Mattie Fae in Tracy Letts' Pulitzer Prize-winning drama August: Osage County on February 3. The role was originated by Rondi Reed and is now played by Molly Regan. Ashley is currently on Broadway in Dividing the Estate. She won the Tony Award for Take Her, She's Mine and was nominated for her performances in Barefoot in the Park and Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. Her other Broadway credits include Enchanted April, Agnes of God, and Suddenly Last Summer. August: Osage County is directed by Anna D. Shapiro, and also stars Guy Boyd, John Cullum, Johanna Day, Scott Jaeck, Brian Kerwin, Madeleine Martin, Michael Milligan, Estelle Parsons, Dee Pelletier, Samantha Ross, Amy Warren, and Frank Wood.

Piven speeds away from 'Plow' play - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety

Piven speeds away from 'Plow' play - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety.

Jeremy Piven will abruptly end his run in Broadway’s “Speed-the-Plow,” after missing Tuesday evening’s performance and a Wednesday matinee. Piven has informed the producers that he hasn’t been feeling well and that the condition is attributable to a high mercury count. The show’s producers weren’t returning calls, but Daily Variety reached out to David Mamet, who wrote the showbiz satire and seemed skeptical of the reasons for Piven’s departure. More than one option (Co) Daily Variety Filmography, Year, Role (Co) Daily Variety “I talked to Jeremy on the phone, and he told me that he discovered that he had a very high level of mercury,” Mamet said. “So my understanding is that he is leaving show business to pursue a career as a thermometer.” Mamet indicated that the show will go on despite Piven’s exit. “The good news is that some really great actors will be helping out and stepping in, which to me is a sign of great heroism and friendship,” said Mamet, who declined to name the replacements.

'Gypsy' to shutter on Broadway - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety

'Gypsy' to shutter on Broadway - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety.

Add another title to the January exodus on Broadway. Despite previously announcing the show would close March 1, eliminating the need to find a replacement for Tony-winning star Patti LuPone when she was due to exit the production, "Gypsy" will now shutter Jan. 11. The move by producers provides further evidence of the impact on Broadway of the current economic turmoil. Closing notices are stacking up for January and a number of theaters are looking likely to remain vacant at least through the traditionally tough winter months and perhaps into the spring.

'Blasted' Extends at Soho Rep Through 11/9

Link: 'Blasted' Extends at Soho Rep Through 11/9.

Soho Rep - the nine-time OBIE Award-winning, Off-Broadway theatre company - will extend its critically acclaimed, sold-out production of Sarah Kane's landmark play BLASTED by two weeks - through November 9th, it has been announced by Soho Rep's Artistic Director Sarah Benson.

Daniel Breaker Joins Shrek the Musical as Gregory and Lewis-Evans Depart, Broadway.com Buzz

Link: Daniel Breaker Joins Shrek the Musical as Gregory and Lewis-Evans Depart, Broadway.com Buzz.

As the Broadway production of Shrek the Musical prepares to begin rehearsals on October 6, the production team announced the arrival of Tony nominee Daniel Breaker as Donkey and the departure of Chester Gregory, who played the part during the Seattle pre-Broadway run, and Kecia Lewis-Evans as the Dragon. Shrek the Musical is set to begin previews on November 8 and will open on December 14 at the Broadway Theatre, directed by Jason Moore.

Paige Davis and Rebecca Gayheart Flying Into Boeing-Boeing, Broadway.com Buzz

Link: Paige Davis and Rebecca Gayheart Flying Into Boeing-Boeing, Broadway.com Buzz.

Trading Spaces hostess Paige Davis and film star Rebecca Gayheart are packing their bags to join the cast of Broadway's hit comedy Boeing-Boeing as two sexy stewardesses. They start performances at the Longacre Theatre on October 7.

Krill, Case, and Peluso Join 'Mamma Mia!' 9/24 (BroadwayWorld.com)

Link: Krill, Case, and Peluso Join 'Mamma Mia!' 9/24 (BroadwayWorld.com).

Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus’ global smash hit musical MAMMA MIA! welcomes Sean Alan Krill as “Sam Carmichael,” Allison Case as “Sophie Sheridan” and Chris Peluso as “Sky” to the Broadway company when they begin performances at the Winter Garden Theatre (1634 Broadway) on Wednesday, September 24th, 2008.

MAMMA MIA! will celebrate its seventh sold out year on Broadway on Saturday, October 18th, 2008.

Francesca Faridany and Jeffrey Kuhn to Join Broadway's The 39 Steps, Broadway.com Buzz

Link: Francesca Faridany and Jeffrey Kuhn to Join Broadway's The 39 Steps, Broadway.com Buzz.

Francesca Faridany and Jeffrey Kuhn will join the cast of Alfred Hitchcock's The 39 Steps on October 28 at Broadway's Cort Theatre. Faridany will play the roles of Annabella Schmidt, Margaret and Pamela, and Kuhn will play the role of Man #1, replacing Jennifer Ferrin and Cliff Saunders, who will depart on October 26.

Lewis Cleale is New El Gallo in 'Fantasticks' Revival (BroadwayWorld.com)

Link: Lewis Cleale is New El Gallo in 'Fantasticks' Revival (BroadwayWorld.com).

Lewis Cleale, who recently appeared as Sir Galahad in the Broadway company of Spamalot, will assume the role of El Gallo in the Off Broadway revival of Tom Jones and Harvey Schmidt's The Fantasticks beginning Monday, September 15, 2008. He will replace Dennis Parlato, who will play his final performances in the longest-running musical in the world on Sunday, September 14, 2008.

Public puts its 'Hair' up - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety

Link: Public puts its 'Hair' up - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety.

Off Broadway's Public Theater will beef up its Rialto producing duties for the upcoming Broadway transfer of "Hair," the current Shakespeare in the Park offering now confirmed to hit the Main Stem this season.

The Public will be a managing producer of the Broadway incarnation with producing partner Elizabeth I. McCann, who teamed with the org last season to move tuner "Passing Strange" to the Rialto.

"The Public is going to take a very active role in producing again," said Public a.d. Oskar Eustis. "We should be taking responsibility not just for the quality of the show itself but also for making sure it reaches the broadest and most diverse audience it can."

The level of Public's involvement in "Hair" will be a step up from the org's participation in "Passing Strange," which struggled to attract auds despite critical praise and Tony noms.

Key Public staffers involved in Rialto operations will be Eustis, exec director Andrew D. Hamingson and associate producer Jenny Gersten. A new addition to the Public, Hamingson was formerly the managing director at Off Broadway's Atlantic Theater, where he was involved in Rialto transfers of Atlantic shows "Spring Awakening" and "The Lieutenant of Inishmore."

No timeline for the Broadway version of "Hair" has been set. Production ends its extended run at the Delacorte Theater on Sunday. Since the tuner has not yet booked a Rialto venue, a spring berth seems likely.

The 1967 flower-power musical originated at the Public before a 1968 Broadway run that lasted four years. Current revival, helmer Diane Paulus' fully staged version of a concert performance that ran briefly in the Park last year, has attracted major crowds and industry attention since it began perfs July 22.

On Tap for Broadway - A Male, Male, Male, Male World - NYTimes.com

Link: On Tap for Broadway - A Male, Male, Male, Male World - NYTimes.com.

Is it a reaction against last season, when the New York stage seemed to be overtaken by domineering women? The play of the year, of course, was “August: Osage County,” Tracy Letts’s hair-raising family saga focused on a mother-daughter smackdown. And the most hotly debated and attention-getting performance came from Patti LuPone as Momma Rose in “Gypsy,” a musical that also focuses on a mother-daughter conflict, this one somewhat less savage and partly conducted in song. Whatever the reason, wives and mothers are taking a definite back seat to their husbands, fathers and sons this fall on Broadway stages.

Romano steps into 'Avenue Q' - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety

Link: Romano steps into 'Avenue Q' - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety.

Christy Carlson Romano steps into "Avenue Q" later this month, playing the puppet roles of Kate Monster and Lucy, both originated by Stephanie D'Abruzzo.

Romano has cultivated a tween-age fanbase thanks to her work in Disney properties including "Kim Possible" (in which she voiced the title role) and "Even Stevens." She recently appeared on the Rialto in "Beauty and the Beast."

Romano kicks off her stint with "Avenue Q" Sept. 29.

Matt Bogart to Join the Broadway Company of Jersey Boys, Broadway.com Buzz

Link: Matt Bogart to Join the Broadway Company of Jersey Boys, Broadway.com Buzz.

Matt Bogart will join the Broadway cast of Jersey Boys as Nick Massi on September 30. J. Robert Spencer, who originated the role, will play his final performance on September 14. In the interim, the role of Nick Massi will be played by John Leone.

Spencer is the third of the four original leading actors to depart Jersey Boys since the show opened at the August Wilson Theatre on November 6, 2005. Tony winner John Lloyd Young was replaced by Michael Longoria as Frankie Valli and Daniel Reichard was replaced by Sebastian Arcelus as Bob Gaudio. Christian Hoff, who won a Tony as Tommy DeVito, is set to play the title role in the upcoming Broadway revival of Pal Joey. His departure date from Jersey Boys and replacement have not been announced.

Bianca Marroquin Set to Return to Broadway Company of Chicago, Broadway.com Buzz

Link: Bianca Marroquin Set to Return to Broadway Company of Chicago, Broadway.com Buzz.

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Bianca Marroquin will return to the Broadway cast of Chicago on September 15 as merry murderess Roxie Hart. Marroquin first played the role in a 2002 production in Mexico City, which won her five awards from the Mexican Critics Association, including New Revelation and Best Actress. Later that year, she debuted on Broadway as Roxie, a transition that made Marroquin the first and only Latina actress to cross over from Mexico to Broadway in a leading role. She replaces Michelle DeJean.

Marroquin also starred in Chicago's third national tour, for which she earned the Helen Hayes Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in 2004. Earlier this year, she was recognized by the General Consulate of Mexico for her unparalleled success as a Mexican actress on Broadway.

Tour Star Siberry to Be Crowned King of Broadway's Spamalot 9/16, Broadway.com Buzz

Link: Tour Star Siberry to Be Crowned King of Broadway's Spamalot 9/16, Broadway.com Buzz.

Monty Python's Spamalot will crown a king September 16, when Broadway veteran and original Spamalot national tour star Michael Siberry takes over the role of King Arthur. Siberry, who replaces current star Stephen Collins, has played the role on the road for over two years. Siberry will join a cast featuring Tom Deckman, Rick Holmes, Bradley Dean, Robert Petkoff, Wally Dunn, Merle Dandridge and Clay Aiken. A native Australian, he has appeared on Broadway in Nicholas Nickleby, The Sound of Music and The Merchant of Venice. Siberry is also an alumnus of England's Royal Shakespeare Company, and has appeared abroad in productions such as School for Scandal, Chicago, A Midsummer Night's Dream and Private Lives.

Greg Germann and Missi Pyle Onboard for Boeing-Boeing, Broadway.com Buzz

Link: Greg Germann and Missi Pyle Onboard for Boeing-Boeing, Broadway.com Buzz.

Ally McBeal veteran Greg Germann and up-and-coming Hollywood funny lady Missi Pyle will join the cast of the Tony Award winning Boeing-Boeing revival beginning September 9 at the Longacre Theatre. The pair will join current stars Gina Gershon, Kathryn Hahn, Christine Baranski and Tony Award winner Mark Rylance. Germann, who replaces Boeing's onstage playboy Bradley Whitford, has appeared on Broadway in Biloxi Blues. Off-Broadway credits include Assassins, Dearly Departed, Only You and How to Save the World and Find True Love in 90 Minutes. He is best known to TV fans for playing Richard Fish on the long running series Ally McBeal. Additional silver screen credits include Talladega Nights, Friends with Money, Down to Earth and Clear and Present Danger, as well as TV's In Case of Emergency, Ned and Stace and Sweet Justice.

Hanke To Replace Groff For Two Week 'Hair' Extension (BroadwayWorld.com)

Link: Hanke To Replace Groff For Two Week 'Hair' Extension (BroadwayWorld.com).

The Public Theater (Artistic Director Oskar Eustis; Executive Director Mara Manus) announced today that Christopher J. Hanke will join the cast of HAIR: The American Tribal Love-Rock Musical at the Delacorte Theater for the final two week extension of the run (August 17 to August 31, 2008). Directed by Diane Paulus with book and lyrics by James Rado and Gerome Ragni and music by Galt MacDermot, HAIR began previews Tuesday, July 22 and was extended through Sunday, August 31 with an official press opening on Thursday, August 7. Hanke will replace Jonathan Groff in the role of Claude beginning on Sunday, August 17. Groff has a previously scheduled work commitment that precludes him from continuing with the production for the two week extension.

Clay Aiken returning to Broadway - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety

Link: Clay Aiken returning to Broadway - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety.

Claymates, get ready to head back to Broadway: "American Idol" alum Clay Aiken returns to the Rialto production of "Monty Python's Spamalot" this fall in a four-month stint. Aiken will reprise the role of Sir Robin, which he played earlier this year in an engagement that ended May 4. David Hyde Pierce originated the part in the 2005 tuner, based on the 1975 film "Monty Python and the Holy Grail." Aiken is one of several reality TV stars who have made their way to Broadway, along with Fantasia Barrino ("The Color Purple") and Taylor Hicks ("Grease"). His previous run in "Spamalot" had a noticeable effect on box office. Weekly sales for the tuner surged the week Aiken joined the cast and took a steep tumble the frame after he departed. Aiken returns to "Spamalot" Sept. 19-Jan. 4.

Brenda Braxton to Return to Broadway's Chicago on August 12, Broadway.com Buzz

Link: Brenda Braxton to Return to Broadway's Chicago on August 12, Broadway.com Buzz.

Brenda Braxton will return to the Ambassador Theatre on August 12 to play Velma Kelly in Chicago. This will mark Braxton's eighth stint in the role, since first joining the show in 2003. She replaces Nancy Lemenager in the role of the merry murderess. Braxton received a 1995 Best Featured Actress Tony nomination for her performance in Smokey Joe's Cafe. Her other Broadway credits include Dreamgirls, Cats, Legs Diamond and Jelly's Last Jam.

Public Theater Names Andrew D. Hamingson as New Executive Director - NYTimes.com

Link: Public Theater Names Andrew D. Hamingson as New Executive Director - NYTimes.com.

The Public Theater has chosen as its new executive director Andrew D. Hamingson, who from his perch at the Atlantic Theater Company helped usher “Spring Awakening” to Broadway, the Public announced on Wednesday.

'Romantic Poetry' adds cast - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety

Link: 'Romantic Poetry' adds cast - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety.

Mark Linn-Baker, Ivan Hernandez and Patina Renea Miller have signed on to appear in Manhattan Theater Club's preem of the new John Patrick Shanley-Henry Krieger musical "Romantic Poetry."

Ventimiglia stars in 'Stitching' - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety

Link: Ventimiglia stars in 'Stitching' - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety.

John Ventimiglia (“The Sopranos”) has sewn up a stint in Off Broadway play “Stitching,” which has extended by two weeks to Aug. 2. Ventimiglia replaces Gian-Murray Gianino, whose sked conflicted with the extension. Anthony Neilson’s “Stitching” follows a couple whose romantic role-playing games spiral out of control. Production, playing at the Wild Project, co-stars Meital Dohan and is helmed by Timothy Haskell.

Tracie Thoms to Join RENT (BroadwayWorld.com)

Link: Tracie Thoms to Join RENT (BroadwayWorld.com).

Tracie Thoms, who played Joanne in the 2005 "Rent" film, will join the Broadway production of RENT. Thoms, Variety reports, will reprise role she played on film, Joanne Jefferson, beginning July 26 through the final performance on Sept. 7. Tracie Thoms made her Broadway debut in Drowning Crow. Off-Broadway she was seen in The Exonerated and Up Against the Wind, and her regional credits include Joe Turner's Come and Gone, A Raisin in the Sun, The Oedipus Plays and Hair, earning a Helen Hayes nomination for her work in the latter. Thoms' screen credits include "Rent," "Brother to Brother," "As If," "Porn 'N Chicken," "The Shield" and the Fox series "Wonderfalls."

Original Cast Member Gwen Stewart Headed Back to Rent, Broadway.com Buzz

Link: Original Cast Member Gwen Stewart Headed Back to Rent, Broadway.com Buzz.

Gwen Stewart, who created several roles in the landmark Broadway musical Rent, including introducing the solo vocals for “Seasons of Love,” will return to the musical on July 21. Stewart will reprise her original roles through the show's closing on September 7 at the Nederlander Theatre. Stewart's other theater credits include the Tony-nominated revival of Big River (NAACP Best Supporting Actress nomination/Honorary Tony for Excellence in Theatre for the ensemble), Starmites, Suds, Ain't Misbehavin', The Wiz, Avenue X and Abyssinia. Her film and television work includes Notes From the Underbelly, Related, Law & Order, Charmed, All My Children, Moesha, 24, Strong Medicine, The Guardian, Down to Earth and Personals.

Whoopi laces up for 'Xanadu' - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety

Link: Whoopi laces up for 'Xanadu' - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety.

Whoopi Goldberg will roll into a stint in Broadway's "Xanadu" this summer, playing scheming muse Caliope in the musical spoof of the infamous 1980 roller-disco flop. Goldberg announced her new stage gig Monday morning on "The View," the gabfest she co-hosts. Thesp steps into "Xanadu" for six weeks beginning later this month, taking over for Jackie Hoffman, who temporarily departs to concentrate on the impending release of a CD, "Jackie Hoffman Live from Joe's Pub."

Parrish set for 'Spring Awakening' - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety

Link: Parrish set for 'Spring Awakening' - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety.

Hunter Parrish will step into a lead role in Broadway tuner “Spring Awakening” later this summer, playing the teen rebel, Melchior, originally portrayed by Jonathan Groff. Parrish, best known for playing the older son of Mary-Louise Parker’s character on “Weeds,” replaces Kyle Riabko, who departs to play Melchior in the national tour of “Spring” kicking off in San Francisco in September. Parrish makes his Rialto debut in “Spring.” Film credits include “Freedom Writers” and “RV,” as well as the upcoming “17 Again.”

Reality runners-up join 'Grease' - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety

Link: Reality runners-up join 'Grease' - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety.

Derek Keeling and Ashley Spencer, runners-up in NBC’s talent competition series “You’re the One That I Want,” will take over July 20 from that show’s winners, Max Crumm and Laura Osnes, in the Broadway revival of “Grease,” playing leads Danny and Sandy.

Disney's theater unit ups Schrader - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety

Link: Disney's theater unit ups Schrader - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety.

Disney Theatrical Group's David Schrader has been upped to the newly created role of executive vice president, overseeing strategic planning for the division including finance, marketing, sales and public relations for Disney on Broadway as well as its national touring, merchandising, international co-prods and licensing operations. A 13-year Disney vet, the New York-based Schrader will continue to report to Disney Theatrical Group president Thomas Schumacher. In addition to principal productions such as "The Lion King," "Mary Poppins" and "The Little Mermaid," all currently running on Broadway, Schrader's purview will cover all Disney Live Family Entertainment business, including Disney on Ice and Disney Live! shows.

Leavel joins 'Young Frankenstein' - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety

Link: Leavel joins 'Young Frankenstein' - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety.

Tony winner Beth Leavel along with Michele Ragusa and Kelly Sullivan will join the cast on Broadway of "Young Frankenstein" this summer, when original stars Megan Mullally, Sutton Foster and Andrea Martin exit the Mel Brooks musical. Leavel ("The Drowsy Chaperone") will replace Martin on July 20 as stern housekeeper Frau Blucher; Ragusa ("Adrift in Macao") steps in for Mullally Aug. 3 as oversexed Park Avenue sophisticate Elizabeth; and Sullivan ("Contact") takes over July 6 from Foster as Inga, Dr. Frankenstein's lab assistant.

LCT's 'Estate' finds home at Booth - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety

Link: LCT's 'Estate' finds home at Booth - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety.

The Broadway transfer of Horton Foote's "Dividing the Estate" has secured a home for its fall run at the Booth Theater, opening Nov. 20 following previews that begin Oct. 23. Presented by Lincoln Center Theater by arrangement with Off Broadway's Primary Stages, where the production was first seen last fall, the comedy about a Texas family squaring off over its inheritance will reassemble its entire 13-member cast, headed by Elizabeth Ashley, Arthur French, Hallie Foote, Penny Fuller and Gerald McRaney. Michael Wilson directs.

Estelle Parsons joins 'Osage County' - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety

Link: Estelle Parsons joins 'Osage County' - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety.

Estelle Parsons will join the cast of "August: Osage County" June 17 in the key role of pill-popping, poison-tongued matriarch Violet Weston. Parsons replaces original cast member Deanna Dunagan in the Steppenwolf Theater Company production of Tracy Letts' dysfunctional family comedy drama, which has picked up a string of awards this season, including the Pulitzer. Also stepping in June 17 is Steppenwolf Ensemble member Molly Regan as Violet's sister Mattie Fae, replacing Rondi Reed. "August" is nominated for seven Tonys, including play, director (Anna D. Shapiro), Dunagan and Amy Morton for lead actress and Reed for featured actress. The production recouped its initial investment of $2.6 million five months into its run, which opened Dec. 4 at the Imperial Theater and has since transferred to the Music Box.

Estelle Parsons, Molly Regan Headed to the Cast of August: Osage County, Broadway.com Buzz

Link: Estelle Parsons, Molly Regan Headed to the Cast of August: Osage County, Broadway.com Buzz.

Oscar winner Estelle Parsons will join the cast of August: Osage County on June 17 as matriarch Violet Weston alongside Steppenwolf actress Molly Regan as her sister, Mattie Fae. The 80-year-old Parsons and Regan will replace Tony nominees Deanna Dunagan and Rondi Reed, respectively, in Tracy Letts' acclaimed family drama, now playing at the Music Box Theatre. Tony nominee Anna D. Shapiro is the director. Parsons made her Broadway debut in 1956 in Happy Hunting and has gone on to star in or direct more than 25 productions. She received Tony nominations for her performances in The Seven Descents of Myrtle, And Miss Reardon Drinks a Little, Miss Margarida's Way and the 2002 revival of Morning's at Seven, her most recent Broadway credit as an actress. She has directed several staged readings of Salome featuring Al Pacino, including a Broadway staging in 2003. Her most recent leading role off-Broadway was in Horton Foote's The Day Emily Married in 2004.

Aaron Tveit to Play Fiyero in Wicked on Broadway, Broadway.com Buzz

Link: Aaron Tveit to Play Fiyero in Wicked on Broadway, Broadway.com Buzz.

Tveit is set to be Wicked's next Fiyero. The actor, who is replacing David Burnham, will take on the role on June 24. He joins new stars Kerry Ellis as Elphaba and Jayne Houdyshell as Madam Morrible, who both begin performances June 17 at the Gershwin Theatre. Tveit is currently appearing in Playwrights Horizons' production of the new musical Saved. He was recently nominated for a Lucille Lortel Award for Outstanding Featured Actor for his turn in off-Broadway's Next to Normal. Additional credits include Link in Hairspray and the first national tours of Rent and Hairspray. Tveit also starred in the New York workshop of Broadway's upcoming Catch Me If You Can.

Sam Robards to Play The 39 Steps' Leading Man-on-the-Run, Broadway.com Buzz

Link: Sam Robards to Play The 39 Steps' Leading Man-on-the-Run, Broadway.com Buzz.

Sam Robards will take over the leading role of Richard Hannay in the Tony-nominated comedy hit The 39 Steps on July 8. Original British star Charles Edwards will depart the production on Sunday, July 6. Robards was nominated for a Tony Award in 2002 for the Arthur Miller play The Man Who Had All the Luck, which also earned him a Clarence Derwent Award. He more recently appeared on Broadway in a revival of Absurd Person Singular. Off-Broadway credits include Taking Steps, Album, Flux, Moonchildren, The Altriusts, Misalliance and last season's The Overwhelming. The son of film legends Lauren Bacall and Jason Robards, he has also been seen on the big screen in many movies including Tempest, Fandango, Bright Lights, Big City, Bird, Casualties of War, Pret-A-Porter, Mrs. Parker and the Vicious Circle, Beautiful Girls, American Beauty, Bounce, A.I. and Life as a House.

Carrie Manolakos to Play Sophie in Broadway Company of Mamma Mia!, Broadway.com Buzz

Link: Carrie Manolakos to Play Sophie in Broadway Company of Mamma Mia!, Broadway.com Buzz.

Carrie Manolakos will be joining the cast of Mamma Mia! at the Winter Garden Theatre beginning June 4 as bride-to-be Sophie. She will replace current star Carey Anderson, whose final performance will be June 1, in the long-running hit pop musical. Manolakos recently played the role of Sophie in the national tour of the show. Regional credits include The Who's Tommy, The Wild Party, Hello Dolly, A Midsummer Night's Dream and The Wizard of Oz.

Robert Foxworth Headed to Broadway's August: Osage County, Broadway.com Buzz

Link: Robert Foxworth Headed to Broadway's August: Osage County, Broadway.com Buzz.

Robert Foxworth is set to join the Broadway cast of August: Osage County on June 17 as Charlie, the genial husband who struggles with his cantankerous wife, Mattie Fae. Foxworth will replace Francis Guinan, who originated the role on Broadway and in the play's first production in Chicago. August: Osage County is currently running at the Music Box Theatre, directed by Anna D. Shapiro. Foxworth co-starred in Manhattan Theatre Club's off-Broadway production of The Receptionist earlier this season and most recently appeared on Broadway in the Roundabout Theatre Company's revival of Twelve Angry Men. His other Broadway credits include Judgment at Nuremburg, Honour, Ivanov and Candida. In addition to appearances in the films Syriana and Transformers, Foxworth is known for his TV work, playing Chase Gioberti in seven seasons of Falcon Crest as well as Brenda Chenowith's psychoanalyst father in Six Feet Under.

Jim True-Frost to Join the Cast of August: Osage County, Broadway.com Buzz

Link: Jim True-Frost to Join the Cast of August: Osage County, Broadway.com Buzz.

Jim True-Frost will join the cast of Tracy Letts' August: Osage County on June 17 as Little Charles, replacing Ian Barford. The play is currently playing at Broadway's Music Box Theatre, directed by Anna D. Shapiro. Little Charles is the much-maligned son of Mattie Fae and Charlie Aiken in Letts' Pulitzer Prize-winning family saga. His relationship with his cousin Ivy is the source of much drama in the course of the play, which centers on a reunion after the disappearance of the family patriarch.

Carol Woods Headed Back to Chicago as Mama Morton, Broadway.com Buzz

Link: Carol Woods Headed Back to Chicago as Mama Morton, Broadway.com Buzz.

Carol Woods is headed back to the Broadway company of Chicago on June 2 as Matron "Mama" Morton. She replaces Kecia Lewis-Evans, who will play her final performance on June 1 at the Ambaassador Theatre. Woods recently appeared as a soloist in Julie Taymor's feature film Across the Universe, performing a gospel rendition of the Beatles' "Let It Be," which she reprised on the 2008 Grammy Awards broadcast. Her Broadway and national touring credits include The Full Monty, One Mo' Time, Follies, Smokey Joe's Cafe, Stepping Out, The Goodbye Girl, Grind, Big River and The Crucible. She received an Olivier Award nomination for the London production of Blues in the Night and appeared on the London stage in Ma Rainey's Black Bottom. On television, Woods was a series regular on Parent Hood.

Renee Elise Goldsberry to Join Broadway's Rent as Mimi, Broadway.com Buzz

Link: Renee Elise Goldsberry to Join Broadway's Rent as Mimi, Broadway.com Buzz.

Renée Elise Goldsberry, two-time Emmy and NAACP Image Award nominee for playing lawyer Evangeline Williamson on the ABC soap opera One Life To Live, will join the Broadway company of Rent on June 16 as Mimi Marquez. Tamyra Gray will appear as Mimi through June 15 at the Nederlander Theatre.

American Idol Winner Taylor Hicks Signs On for Summer Run in Grease, Broadway.com Buzz

Link: American Idol Winner Taylor Hicks Signs On for Summer Run in Grease, Broadway.com Buzz.

Taylor Hicks, the Season Five winner of American Idol, will make his Broadway debut in Grease this summer. The silver-haired singer will play Teen Angel in the Tony-nominated revival of the all-American 1950s musical from June 6 to September 7

Newcomers Kyle Riabko and Alexandra Socha Land Leading Roles in Spring Awakening, Broadway.com Buzz

Link: Newcomers Kyle Riabko and Alexandra Socha Land Leading Roles in Spring Awakening, Broadway.com Buzz.

Two Broadway newcomers will take on the lead roles in Spring Awakening later this month after original cast members Jonathan Groff and Lea Michele play their final performance in the Tony-winning musical on May 18. Canadian recording artist Kyle Riabko will assume the role of Melchior on May 23, with current ensemble member Alexandra Socha moving up to the role of Wendla on May 20. "I am thrilled to be a part of such an inspiring piece, with such an uber-talented cast," Riabko said in a statement. "I'm going to go to work every day with my head held high, because I am extremely proud of everything the show stands for. This musical is an actor/singer's dream!" Riabko's solo album, Before I Speak, was released in April 2005 on Columbia Records. Since its release, he's toured alongside artists like John Mayer, Maroon 5 and B.B. King.

Tania Camargo joins Soho Rep - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety

Link: Tania Camargo joins Soho Rep - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety.

Tania Camargo is the new exec director of Off Broadway theater Soho Rep. Formerly the management associate at the Roundabout, Camargo will work with Soho Rep a.d. Sarah Benson. She takes over for departing exec director Alexandra Conley, who vacates the post to move with her husband to Italy. Prior to her three years at the Roundabout, Camargo managed the Berkshire Theater Festival in Massachusetts. The L.A. native began her career at Center Theater Group.

Robert Petkoff Joins Spamalot, Replacing Clay Aiken, Broadway.com Buzz

Link: Robert Petkoff Joins Spamalot, Replacing Clay Aiken, Broadway.com Buzz.

Robert Petkoff is set to join the Broadway cast of Spamalot at the Shubert Theatre on May 6. Petkoff will play Sir Robin, a role he performed in the national tour of the Tony Award-winning musical, replacing the departing Clay Aiken. Petkoff's Broadway credits include Fiddler on the Roof with Alfred Molina and Epic Proportions. He appeared with Judi Dench in the West End production of The Royal Family, as well as in the off-Broadway production of More Stately Mansions.

Robert Petkoff To Take Over Sir Robin in 'Spamalot' 5/6 (BroadwayWorld.com)

Link: Robert Petkoff To Take Over Sir Robin in 'Spamalot' 5/6 (BroadwayWorld.com).

On Tuesday, May 6, Robert Petkoff joins the Broadway cast of the Monty Python’s SPAMALOT, the funniest musical in the universe, at the Shubert Theatre (225 West 44th Street). Petkoff will assume the roles of Sir Robin, et al.

NYTW Names William Russo New Managing Director (BroadwayWorld.com)

Link: NYTW Names William Russo New Managing Director (BroadwayWorld.com).

New York Theatre Workshop (NYTW) Artistic Director James C. Nicola and Board of Trustees President Heather Randall have announced that William Russo has been named the theatre's new Managing Director effective May 12, 2008.

Will Chase and Eden Espinosa Sign On for Final Months of Rent, Broadway.com Buzz

Link: Will Chase and Eden Espinosa Sign On for Final Months of Rent, Broadway.com Buzz.

Will Chase and Eden Espinosa are headed into the Broadway company of Rent, which ends its run at the Nederlander Theatre on September 7. Chase will return to the role of Roger on May 5. Espinosa will play Maureen beginning on May 30. The cast of Rent (confirmed to run at least through June 15) also includes Adam Kantor as Mark, Michael McElroy as Collins, Justin Johnston as Angel, Rodney Hicks as Benny, Tamyra Gray as Mimi and Merle Dandridge as Joanne.

'Xanadu' cast extend contracts - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety

Link: 'Xanadu' cast extend contracts - Entertainment News, Legit News, Media - Variety.

In the face of continuing speculation in the industry about when “Xanadu” may close, the Broadway tuner’s producers are touting the fact that all of the show’s lead thesps have reupped their contracts through early next year. The five major players -- Kerry Butler, Cheyenne Jackson, Tony Roberts, Jackie Hoffman and Mary Testa -- are now on board through Jan. 25. Recent sales figures logged by the small-scale, tongue-in-cheek tuner adaptation of the 1980 film regularly lie on the low end of the box office charts, prodding chatter among legiters that the show looks to be winding down its run. Weekly sales hovered at about $160,000 for much of April, although the production’s grosses climbed to around $225,000 last week. “Xanadu” also has received awards-season attention recently, scoring six Drama Desk nominations and noms for tuner from the Outer Critics and the Drama League. The production is regularly in the mix in discussions of upcoming Tony noms.

Nicolette Hart and Kate Rockwell Headed for Legally Blonde, Broadway.com Buzz

Link: Nicolette Hart and Kate Rockwell Headed for Legally Blonde, Broadway.com Buzz.

Rent alum Nicolette Hart and You're the One That I Want finalist Kate Rockwell will join the cast of the Broadway musical Legally Blonde in May. The show celebrated its one-year anniversary at the Palace Theatre on April 29.

Steve Rosen Returning to Broadway Company of Spamalot, Broadway.com Buzz

Link: Steve Rosen Returning to Broadway Company of Spamalot, Broadway.com Buzz.

Monty Python's Spamalot will welcome back original cast member Steve Rosen to the Shubert Theater on April 29 in the roles of Dennis's Mother, Sir Bedevere and Concorde. He replaces Brad Oscar. Rosen rejoins Spamalot after a recent run in The Farnsworth Invention, Aaron Sorkin's play about the creation of television, in which he appeared alongside another Spamalot alum, Hank Azaria. Rosen is also the co-creator and host of Don't Quit Your Day Job, an after-hours improv-comedy variety show featuring Broadway actors.