Leap of Faith to open in Apr at the St James

Composer Alan Menken and lyricist Glenn Slater's musical stage adaptation of the 1992 Steve Martin film, Leap of Faith, is to begin performances at Broadway's St James Theatre on 3 Apr 2012, with opening night expected later in the month (date to be announced).

As previously announced, the musical will star Raúl Esparza as conman 'Jonas Nightengale.' He will be joined by Jessica Phillips (Priscilla Queen of the Desert) as "Marla," and Kendra Kassebaum (Wicked) as "Sam." Furhter casting to be announced.

Leap of Faith: When his traveling ministry breaks down in a small Kansas town, part-time reverend and full-time con artist Jonas Nightingale (Raul Esparza) quickly pitches a tent and invites the locals to a revival. The town sheriff, Marla Humes (Jessica Phillips) is determined to stop him from separating the townspeople from their money.

The Broadway production will be directed by Tony-nominated Christopher Ashley (Memphis, Rocky Horror Show) and be choreographed by Sergio Trujillo (Jersey Boys, Memphis). Tony Award-winner Warren Leight (Side Man), will work with Janus Cercone to revise the book for Leap of Faith. Sergio Trujillo, with credits such as 'Jersey Boys' and 'Memphis,' will be the choreographer.

Leap of Faith had its world premier at the Ahmanson Theatre in Los Angeles, where it played from 11 Sep - 24 Oct 2010. The Los Angeles production was directed and choreographed by Rob Ashford, and stared Raúl Esparza as 'Jonas Nightengale,' and Brooke Shields as 'Marva.' The book was written by Janus Cercone - who authored the original screenplay - and by Glenn Slater.

The Paramount 1992 movie Leap of Faith - screen play by Janus Cercone and directed by Richard Pearce - starred Steve Martin as 'Jonas Nightengale' and Lolita Davidovich as 'Marva.'