David Allen Brooks

In 1985, Larry Kramer's play 'The Normal Heart' debuted at The Public Theatre, and sent shockwaves through the theatrical community. The play was a current, powerful look at the quick-spread of the AIDS epidemic that was raviging the gay community in New York. In The New York Times, theatre critic Frank Rich said of the initial production, 'There can be little doubt that 'The Normal Heart' is the most outspoken play around - or that it speaks up about a subject that justifies its author's unflagging, at times even hysterical, sense of urgency.'

BroadwayWorld has learned that just before the 2010-2011 season comes to a close, Larry Kramer's The Normal Heart will open on Broadway at the Golden Theater starring Cheyenne Jackson, Joe Mantello and Ellen Barkin. Following an Actor's Fund benefit performance of the show starring Mantello and Glenn Close this past fall, rumors began swirling that Daryl Roth was hot to ressurect the property into a full-scale production - it's first on Broadway. Securing an available theater had apparently held up her efforts. it is believed that Mantello will reprise his role as Ned Weeks. Jackson will play his lover Felix Turner and Barkin will assume the role of Dr. Emma Brookner.