The New York Times is reporting that while Andrew Lloyd Webber and the producers of LOVE NEVER DIES are 100% committed to opening the new production at Broadway's Neil Simon Theatre in November as planned, the production may be undergoing some significant changes prior to an opening. LOVE NEVER DIES premiered in London to mixed reviews, with overall commendations on the score and less than complimentary feedback on the book and lyrics.
In response to internet chatter claiming that the show may not open on Broadway at all after the reviews, writes the Times, "One plugged-in executive with the production tamped down that chatter on Thursday, saying that the show is still on track for a fall opening. The executive cited a conversation with Mr. Lloyd Webber, in which the composer said he was committed to bringing "Love Never Dies" to the Neil Simon...The executive, who spoke on condition of anonymity in order to share a private conversation, added that some changes from the London production were likely."
LOVE NEVER DIES opened 9 March in London at the Adelphi Theatre. Previews began on 22 February. LOVE NEVER DIES stars Sierra Boggess and Ramin Karimloo with direction by Jack O'Brien. The show will subsequently open in New York on November 11, 2010 and then in Australia in 2011.
LOVE NEVER DIES continues the story of 'The Phantom', who has moved from his lair in the Paris Opera House to haunt the fairgrounds of Coney Island, far across the Atlantic. Set 10 years after the mysterious disappearance of 'The Phantom' from Paris, this show is a rollercoaster ride of obsession and intrigue...in which music and memory can play cruel tricks...and 'The Phantom' sets out to prove that, indeed, LOVE NEVER DIES.
In celebration of the opening, Decca Broadway announced that it will release two versions of the new Andrew Lloyd Webber musical LOVE NEVER DIES. The release of both, a regular and deluxe edition, will be made available March 9th.
Both versions of the CD will be two-disc sets, with the deluxe version including a DVD as well. The DVD will feature behind the scenes footage from the recording session, as well as interviews with Andrew Lloyd Webber, Bob Crowley (set design), and members of the cast. In addition, it will include a music video of the song "Coney Island Waltz" from the show.
Performances of LOVE NEVER DIES in London at the Adelphi Theatre will be Mondays - Saturdays at 7.30pm, with Wednesday and Saturday matinees at 2.30pm. Tickets, priced from £25.00 - £67.50 (to include 75p theatre restoration levy and inclusive of booking fees), are available from the Adelphi Theatre Box Office on 0844 412 4651 or online from www.loveneverdies.com.
