American Psycho to play Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre

It has now been confirmed that the Broadway premiere of the musical adaptation of American Psycho will be staged at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre. Previews will no longer begin on 19 February 2016, as previously reported, but will now commence on 24 March 2016, with an opening night yet to be confirmed. The eligibility cut-off date for the 70th Annual Tony Awards, however, is 26 April 2016.

Directed by Rupert Goold and choreographed by Lynne Page, American Psycho features a book by Roberto Aguire-Sacasa with music and lyrics by Duncan Sheik, and is based on the novel of the same name by Bret Easton Ellis. Aguire-Sacasa's credits include the television series 'Glee', and the Broadway musical 'Spiderman: Turn off the Dark'. Grammy and Tony Award winner Duncan Sheik provides both music and lyrics to the show, following up on his success with the 2008 musical 'Spring Awakening.'

Synopsis: "Living the high life in 1980s Manhattan, Patrick Bateman has it all - looks, money, style and status. He and his entourage buy the most expensive designer clothes, eat at the most exclusive restaurants and party at the hottest clubs. But privately, Patrick indulges in another kind of transgression. And people - including those closest to him - keep disappearing."

American Psycho will star Benjamin Walker as Patrick Bateman, with additional casting to be announced at a later date.

American Psycho is produced on Broadway by Act 4 Entertainment (David Johnson & Jesse Singer), Jeffrey Richards, and Jerry Frankel in cooperation with Edward R. Pressman.

Rupert Goold also directed the London premiere at the Almeida Theatre in 2013, where 'Dr Who' star Matt Smith starred as protagonist Patrick Bateman.

Bret Easton Ellis' novel was first published in 1991, and was made into a successful film in 2000 starring Christian Bale. The musical version opened at London's Almeida Theatre to a sell out run and mixed-to-positive reviews. Directed by Artistic Director of the Almeida, Rupert Goold, the production was part funded by a Kickstarter campaign, giving members of the public an opportunity to financially back the musical.

Benjamin Walker last appeared on Broadway as Brick in 'Cat on a Hot Tin Roof' in 2013. Other Broadway credits include 'Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson,' 'Les Liaisons Dangereuses,' and 'Inherit the Wind.' His screen credits include 'Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter,' 'Flags of Our Fathers,' 'Kinsey,' and 'The War Boys.'

- by Tom Millward