A Leap of Faith may spring to Broadway

A musical version of the 1992 film comedy "A Leap of Faith" is to have its world premiere at the Ahmanson Theatre in the summer. Though there has been no confirmation it is rumoured that the musical will arrive on Broadway in early 2011.

The musical tells the story of 'Jonas Nightengale,' a fraudulent Christian faith healer who makes a living travelling around America holding revival meetings and conducting 'miracles' with the help of his friend and manager, 'Jane,' and their entourage. However, when he stops at a small town in the middle of a drught, with a sherif that suspects fraud and a disabled boy who believes in miracles - Jonas is forced to re-examine his 'faith.'

The 1992 film "A Leap of Faith," written by Janus Cercone and directed by Richard Pearce, starred Steve Martin as 'Jonas.'

The musical is the project of composer Alan Menken who has been working on the score for some years. The books libretto is by by original screenwriter Janus Cercone with Glenn Slater, and will feature lyrics by Glenn Slater.

The musical was originally to be helmed by Taylor Hackford, but is now to be directed by choreographer Rob Ashford ('Thoroughly Modern Millie,' The Wedding Singer,' 'Curtains'), who is directing and choreographig the upcoming Broadway revival of 'Promises, Promises.' A recent workshop for "A Leap of Faith," held in Manhattan had Raul Esparza cast as 'Jonas,' and also featured Sutton Foster and Kendra Kassebaum.