Larsen, Miller, Thomas, Etc. Set for Xanadu Ensemble

Curtis Holbrook (All Shook Up, Taboo), Anika Larsen (All Shook Up), Kenita R. Miller (The Color Purple), Andrew Ward and Marty Thomas (Wicked) will comprise the ensemble of the upcoming Broadway musical Xanadu, production spokesman Andrew Snyder confirmed to BroadwayWorld.com.

Xanadu, the first musical of the new season, will open at the Helen Hayes Theatre, 240 West 44th Street on Tuesday, June 26th with previews starting on May 23rd.

Principal casting already announced is: Kerry Butler as Kira, Tony Roberts as Danny, James Carpinello as Sonny, and Jackie Hoffman and Mary Testa as the evil Muses.

Douglas Carter Beene has written the book for Xanadu on the film version of the same name. The score will include the hits, "Magic", "Xanadu", "Party All Over the World" and "I'm Alive," all top 20 Billboard hits. The score was written by John Farrar and Jeff Lynne. Lynne wrote and produced all of the Electric Light Orchestra (E.L.O). Farrar was also responsible for most of the hits that were performed by Olivia Newton-John in the 1970's. Christopher Ashley will direct with choreography by Dan Knechtges.

The design team includes David Gallo (sets), Howell Binkley (lighting) and David Zinn (costumes).  Eric Stern will provide musical direction.

Tickets and more information will soon be available at www.xanaduonbroadway.com.

Photo of Kenita R. Miller by Ben Strothmann