Producer Stuart Benjamin has announced that UNCHAIN MY HEART, The Ray Charles Musical, will open at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre (243 West 47th St.) on Broadway on November 7, 2010; previews begin October 8. Directed by Sheldon Epps, UNCHAIN MY HEART features the music of Ray Charles and a book by Suzan-Lori Parks.
As previously announced, UNCHAIN MY HEART will star Brandon Victor Dixon as “Ray Charles” and Nikki Renée Daniels as “Della” with Harrison White as “Jeff Brown” and Tasha Taylor as “Margie Hendricks.” Additional members of the company will be announced at a later date.
UNCHAIN MY HEART, The Ray Charles Musical explores the strength, humor and musical genius of the legendary Ray Charles. One of the greatest pioneering musical artists of all time, Ray Charles mastered everything from soul and rhythm & blues to gospel, jazz, country and pop. Set in his last live recording session, UNCHAIN MY HEART reveals Charles’ remarkable life story through his music. Pulitzer Prize winner Suzan-Lori Parks (Topdog/Underdog) weaves together true tales that reveal the spirit of the man whose life and music helped to define soul, and inspired people the world over.
UNCHAIN MY HEART features Charles’ best-known hits, including: “Georgia on My Mind,” “What’d I Say,” “Mess Around,” “Hit The Road, Jack,” “Unchain My Heart,” “I Got a Woman,” “You Don’t Know Me” and “Hallelujah, I Love Her So.”
UNCHAIN MY HEART will feature Choreography by Kenneth L. Roberson with Associate Edgar Godineaux, Music Supervision and Arrangements by Rahn Coleman, Orchestrations by Harold Wheeler and Music Direction by Shelton Becton. The design team for UNCHAIN MY HEART includes Riccardo Hernandez (Sets), Paul Tazewell (Costumes), Donald Holder (Lights), Carl Casella (Sound), Charles LaPointe (Hair & Wig Design). Casting is by Telsey & Company, Technical Supervision by Theatersmith, Inc. and the General Manager is Don Frantz & Laurie Brown of Town Square Productions, Inc.
UNCHAIN MY HEART is presented by Stuart Benjamin. Mr. Benjamin knew and worked with Mr. Charles for 15 years and produced the multi-Oscar-nominated, award-winning film Ray.
Tickets will become available in Summer 2010 online at Telecharge.com or by phone at (212) 239-6200.
For more information, visit www.UnchainMyHeartOnBroadway.com
