Christian Borle to star in 'Tammy Faye' on Broadway
The Tony Award-winning actor, last seen on Broadway in Some Like It Hot, will replace Andrew Rannells in the new musical about Tammy Faye and Jim Bakker.
Rejoice! Christian Borle will join the cast of the new musical Tammy Faye on Broadway this fall, which begins performances on October 19 ahead of a November 14 opening at the Palace Theatre.
Borle, a Broadway veteran, is best known for his Tony Award-winning performances as Shakespeare in Something Rotten! and Black Stache in Peter and the Starcatcher. He earned three additional nominations for playing Emmett in Legally Blonde, Marvin in Falsettos, and Joe/Josephine in Some Like It Hot, his most recent Broadway show that ran from 2022-23.
Now, he will join Tammy Faye as televangelist Jim Bakker, replacing the previously announced Andrew Rannells. Rannells, alongside Katie Brayben in the title role of fellow televangelist Tammy Faye Bakker, starred in the musical's critically acclaimed 2022 world premiere in London.
Brayben will reprise her role on Broadway as previously announced. Additional casting for Tammy Faye on Broadway will be named soon.
“Christian is one of Broadway’s most exciting leading men and I am beyond thrilled that he will be joining the company of Tammy Faye,” said composer Elton John in a statement. “I know Christian will perfectly capture both the humor and the darkness written into the role and I, along with the rest of the creative team, cannot wait to see him and Katie bring this unforgettable couple to life this fall.”
Tammy Faye follows the infamous couple as their progressive approach to "putting the fun in faith" puts them at odds with more traditional groups. The show features a book by James Graham and music by John and Scissor Sisters' Jake Shears.
As previously announced, the creative team includes choreographer Lynne Page; orchestrators Tom Deering and Mark Dickman; scenic designer Bunny Christie, costume designer Katrina Lindsay; lighting designer Neil Austin; sound designer Bobby Aitken; and video designer Finn Ross. Music supervision, arrangements, and additional music are by Deering.
London Theatre's critic calls Tammy Faye "a heavenly pleasure" and "gloriously, ecstatically camp" in a four-star review.
Get Tammy Faye tickets now.
Photo credit: Christian Borle. (Photo courtesy of production)
Frequently asked questions
Where is Tammy Faye on Broadway playing?
Tammy Faye on Broadway is playing at Palace Theatre. The theatre is located at 160 W 47th St, New York, 10036.
How long is Tammy Faye on Broadway?
The running time of Tammy Faye on Broadway is 2hr 30min. Incl. 15min intermission.
How do you book tickets for Tammy Faye on Broadway?
Book tickets for Tammy Faye on Broadway on New York Theatre Guide.
What's the age requirement for Tammy Faye on Broadway?
The recommended age for Tammy Faye on Broadway is Ages 10+..
What is Tammy Faye on Broadway about?
See Tammy Faye the musical to hear a score by two legends: Elton John and Jake Shears. Get tickets to Tammy Faye in New York to also catch stage stars Katie Brayben and Andrew Rannells in the musical’s leading roles.
What are the songs in Tammy Faye?
The song list for the Broadway production has yet to be announced, but with Elton John and Jake Shears behind the music, expect tunes from the best in the industry and a score blending musical theatre, gospel, and rock. Hallelujah indeed.
Who wrote Tammy Faye?
World-renowned superstar and “Rocketman” singer Elton John wrote the music and pop singer Jake Shears (Scissor Scissors) contributed the lyrics to this musical. Olivier Award winner James Graham wrote the book.
Who directed Tammy Faye?
Rupert Goold directs Tammy Faye. Goold is a two-time Tony Award nominee for Ink and King Richard III and he is also the artistic director of the Almeida Theatre.
Is Tammy Faye appropriate for kids?
The production contains some adult content and themes and as such is recommended for ages 12 and up. Please note that children 4 and younger are not permitted in Broadway theatres.
Is Tammy Faye good?
The London production earned raves across the board; London Theatre’s four-star review praised “Elton John’s toe-tapping, soul and gospel-tinged tunes and mighty pop-rock ballads (with pithy lyrics by Scissor Sisters’ Jake Shears)” and “James Graham’s rich, well-researched script.” Plus, with theatre stars Katie Brayben and Andrew Rannells in leading roles, this musical will surely be a spectacle to behold.
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