The George Hamilton Project to Launch 2013 iStar Theatre Lab Development Season

The iStar Theatre Lab dropped the news today that they will be leading off their 2013 season with an original work starring George Hamilton, with book by his brother David Hamilton, with the Working Title The George Hamilton Project. The work encompasses the remarkable life and times of the world-famous "Tan Man", actor George Hamilton. Supervised by Tony Spinosa, Producing Artistic Director, Laura Bultman, Managing Director with Jo-Ann Bethel, Associate Producer, iStar's hands-on development commences on May 13th. The Lab will take place in New York City and will conclude with a private presentation on June 1st.

The George Hamilton Project promises a musical multimedia experience offering audiences a rare inside look at a show business legend told first-hand by Hamilton himself in an inimitable style which has earned him the reputation for being Hollywood's greatest living raconteur.

"I am delighted to be working with my brother David and that our work was the first one selected for iStar development this year", George Hamilton said. "For a long time I've wanted to tell the story of our funny, quirky, loving family and the surprising journey we traveled together called life. iStar has given us the practical wherewithal to make it possible. I'm so grateful that they have the resources and know-how to make our vision a reality." Spinosa states, "George Hamilton's life is full of fascinating stories and we believe the Lab is the perfect place to channel these stories into a thoroughly entertaining evening of theatre."

George Hamilton is everything Hollywood we know and love - dashing, debonair, and full of tenacity. Vincent Minelli's Home from the Hill sparked Mr. Hamilton's career and 51 years later he has illuminated every aspect of the entertainment industry. Best known for his work on the silver screen in: Light in the Piazza; The Victors; Your Cheatin' Heart; The Man Who Loved Cat Dancing; Love at First Bite; Zorro, The Gay Blade; The Godfather: Part III; Woody Allen's Hollywood Ending; Doc Hollywood; and Crocodile Dundee. Television appearances include Dynasty, Columbo, The Bold and the Beautiful,and Dancing with the Stars. He has produced five feature films including My One and Only, based loosely on his life story and is the author of two books, Don't Mind If I Do and Life's Little Pleasures. He has also appeared in the Broadway smash hit Chicago three times as "Billy Flynn." His achievements have garnered much praise, two best-sellers, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and a Golden Globe. Hamilton's infectious vigor and verve permeate all his endeavors and keep him living life to the fullest!

The Lab is the centerpiece of the iStar's year-round work and is designed to provide a safe environment for the development of contemporary plays and musicals by engaging writers to incubate new works and ideas that engage and challenge diverse audiences.

The iStar Theatre Lab is a three-week workshop designed to provide mentorship and guidance for emerging or established artists who wish to develop and nurture their work. iStar provides rehearsal space, dramaturgical support, an Equity Acting Company, and stage management for playwrights, directors, choreographers, composers, and solo performers. The Lab's day-on, day-off rehearsal structure provides artists with the time to explore and revise their work, without the intensity of daily rehearsals, as well as the freedom from commercial pressure.

Previous projects work shopped in the iStar Theatre Lab include: Gay Bride of Frankenstein by Dane Leeman & Bill Butler, and Veils by Tom Coash. For more information please visit www.istartheatrelab.org .