Hugh Jackman-Led HOUDINI Musical to Play Chicago Prior to Broadway?

According to the Associated Press, the highly-anticipated new Houdini musical, which will feature stage and screen star Hugh Jackman in the title role, might have an out-of-town tryout before moving on to New York. Houdini composer Stephen Schwartz recently revealed that he hopes the musical will play in Chicago prior to a Broadway run in the 2013-14 season.

He told AP: "I'm specifically writing for Hugh in terms of what I think will sound good in his voice and what sorts of things will really help him to do the things that he does."

On the current progress of the new musical, he added: "As soon as we finished it, of course, we immediately said, 'We have to rewrite this entire thing. But nevertheless we're moving on to try to get a complete draft of the show."

In Houdini, Hugh Jackman will return to Broadway during the 2013/2014 season starring as America's greatest showman. One of the world's most fascinating figures takes center stage in Houdini, an original and contemporary look at the life--and death--of America's first superstar.

Directed by three-time Tony Award winner Jack O'Brien, Houdini is presented by film and theatre producer Scott Sanders and David Rockwell. Mr. Rockwell will also design the sets for Houdini. Additional Houdini casting, creative team and design team to be announced at a later date.

Photo Credit: Walter McBride / WM Photos