Musical Comedy ‘First Date’ Set to Hit Broadway in August
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“First Date,” a new musical that premiered recently in Seattle, will move to Broadway this summer.
The musical first appeared at the 5th Avenue Theatre in Seattle, and will begin Broadway previews July 9 with an official opening on August 4. Austin Winsberg wrote the book for the musical, with music and lyrics by Alan Zachary and Michael Weiner.
No casting has yet been announced, but Bill Berry, the producing director of the 5th Avenue Theatre, will direct and Josh Rhodes will choreograph. Rhodes is best known for his work on “Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella.”
The creative team will be rounded out by lighting designer Mike Baldassari, scenic designer David Gallo and sound designer Kai Harada.
Here’s how the 5th Avenue Theatre describes the musical:
Ever been on a date and wondered what the other person was thinking? This new musical comedy lets you peer inside the nervous and busy minds of two would-be lovebirds. Soho artist Casey and Wall Street trader Aaron are on that all-important first date. How can they know if they’re right for each other when old boyfriends, ex-fiancées, assorted friends, relatives, and even the waiter keep offering unsolicited advice? This relationship may just have a chance — if only they can get their inner voices to shut up!
The show was a hit in Seattle last year, and received four Seattle Times Footlight Awards last year. The lead producer of the show is Junkyard Productions, in association with Stem Productions, Susan W. and James C. Blair Family LP, Alex and Katya Lukianov, and Linda and Bill Potter.
Junkyard Production, which features partners including 5th Avenue supporters Marleen and Kenny Alhadeff, was previously responsible for the Tony Award-winning Broadway production of “Memphis.” That musical also had a tryout at the 5th Avenue before transferring to New York.