Fox Searchlight Acquires Rights to Susan Boyle's I DREAMED A DREAM

Deadline reports that Fox Searchlight has acquired the rights to the UK musical I DREAMED A DREAM, based on the real-life story of Britain's Got Talent winner and international superstar Susan Boyle. According to the report, the studio plans to develop "a re-imagined filmed version of the musical."

Lucas Webb, the man behind the Searchlight project, told Deadline he hopes to create, “a sensitive and honest biopic infused with music.” Though no director or screenwriter has yet been chosen for the film, Webb contends that it will take “front and center,” on his list.

'I Dreamed A Dream', which toured internationally throughout 2012, follows Boyle's inspirational life story, from her meteoric rise from obscurity to international stardom. The singer resonated around the world when she stepped on to the Britain's Got Talent stage. She confounded the judges, the audience and over 300 million with access to YouTube who watched her dazzling performance of I Dreamed a Dream. Two albums later she has smashed multiple music records, sold over 14 million albums and continues to enchant the world with every chapter of her journey.

In the musical, the role of Boyle is played by Elaine C Smith, best known for her role in Rab C Nesbitt and a favorite performer of Boyle's. The jukebox musical, produced by Michael Harrison, opened to strong reviews and is set to transfer to Australia next year before heading to the West End.

In commenting on the production in a recent interview Boyle said, "I am happy that the musical is being produced, I never thought my life story would end up on the stage but a lot has happened in two years and it is a very exciting prospect. I hope everyone enjoys the show and I promise there will be a few surprises along the way."