Houdini: Writer Aaron Sorkin Withdraws from production

Due to other commitments Aaron Sorkin has withdrawn from writing the book for the musical Houdini due to a busy television and film schedule.

Sorkin said, "I was really looking forward to returning to Broadway and working with such an incredible team. I am very disappointed my schedule won't allow that at this time."

In a statement producers Scott Sanders and David Rockwell said, "Mr. Sorkin's considerable talents are an asset to any project and we regret that he's unable to remain with Houdini. However, what Hugh and the creative team continue to create is one of the most exciting projects we've ever been a part of. Our projected arrival on Broadway and additional creative team announcement will be made at a future date."

As previously announced the show will star Hugh Jackman as Houdini, with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and direction by Jack O'Brien.

Presss notes for the show reads, "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."

Producers Scott Sanders and David Rockwell first announced the new musical Houdini in April 2008. At that time Danny Elfman was on board to write the score, David Yazbek the lyrics and Kurt Andersen the book. Only director Jack O'Brien remains part of the originally announced creative team. Producer David Rockwell, who is a Tony- nominated architect/set designer (Hairspray), will also design the sets for the new musical.

Additional Houdini casting, creative team and design team to be announced at a later date.