Yank!, which played the York Theatre Off Broadway in the 2009-2010 season and previously announced a Broadway transfer for 2010-11, has now set its sights on a 2012-13 debut. “Raising money has been tough,” producer Stuart Wilk tells the New York Times.
Bobby Steggert led a November workshop as Stu, alongside Santino Fontana (Mitch), Nellie McKay, Jeffrey Howard Schecter, Tyler Maynard and Tally Sessions.
Set during World War II, Yank! chronicles the romantic relationship between two servicemen long before don't-ask-don't-tell was part of the national discussion. With a lively score inspired by the pop sounds of the 1940s, Yank! captures the spirit and exuberance of the era even as it explores questions of prejudice, courage and survival. It tells the story of Stu - a photographer for Yank magazine - and Mitch, an Army Private, who fall in love and struggle to survive in a time and place where the odds are stacked against them.
Another show facing delays is SLEEPLESS IN SEATTLE. As previously announced, the production, originally announced for Broadway, will play Pasadena Playhouse instead this summer in order to make creative tweaks. A spokesperson told the Times that SLEEPLESS now aims for next season.
"I am very taken with the charm, romance, wit, and theatrical whimsy of this musical, and so pleased that The Playhouse is the designated choice for the next step in its development." said Artistic Director Sheldon Epps in a May 2011 statement. SLEEPLESS IN SEATTLE - THE MUSICAL has a book by Jeff Arch, who penned the film's original story and co-wrote the screenplay, sharing 1994 Oscar, BAFTA and WGA nominations with Nora Ephron and David Ward. Music and Lyrics are by Michelle Citrin, Michael Garin, and Josh Nelson. Joel Zwick (George Gershwin Alone, Dance With Me, Shenandoah, My Big Fat Greek Wedding) will direct.
Read the New York Times piece here.
